Today’s news in brief – 9/12/24
Five-star hotel Seaton House in St Andrews, Scotland, has appointed Mark Drummond as its executive chef. A Berwickshire native with 15 years of experience, Drummond will oversee Ondine Oyster & Grill and The Board Room, two restaurants within the hotel, starting December 2024. Working alongside renowned chef Roy Brett, Drummond aims to showcase the best of Scotland’s local produce and establish the hotel as a top culinary destination. Seaton House, set to reopen in February 2025 after extensive restoration, will feature 42 luxury rooms, including nine suites. Brett praised Drummond’s passion for local cuisine, while General Manager Michael Davern highlighted the hotel’s unique offerings and commitment to delivering unparalleled hospitality.
Haselbury Mill, a historic venue in Somerset, has been sold to a private buyer for an undisclosed amount. Set in 13 acres of scenic countryside, the property features three Grade II listed buildings, the Tithe Barn, a river, and a lake. Known for weddings, events, and conferences, Haselbury Mill also offers a 21-room hotel, dining at The Lakeside restaurant, and drinks at Windy Miller’s Pub. The previous owners carried out extensive renovations while preserving the property’s original charm. Christie and Co’s Stephen Champion, who managed the sale, expressed optimism about the new owners’ plans for the venue.
Eleanor Bardon, a former psychology student, has embarked on a culinary career through an apprenticeship at English Lakes Hotels’ Wild Boar Estate near Windermere. The programme, run with Kendal College, provides hands-on training and qualifications. Bardon, a food enthusiast, embraced the career shift for its practical and team-focused nature. Her progress has been lauded, and she is recognised as a valuable addition to the estate’s restaurant, smokehouse, and microbrewery.
