Today’s news in brief – 17/12/24

The Ellen Kensington hotel has launched The Lacquer Room, a 123-cover pan-Asian dining experience led by Singaporean executive chef Eugene Lam. Highlights include an immersive countertop dining area, a private dining room with its own terrace seating up to 20, and an outdoor terrace. The adjoining Ellen Bar offers a separate terrace welcoming cigar smokers. The hotel, housed in five interconnected Victorian townhouses, overlooks Barkston Gardens.

The Chase Hotel in Whitehaven, Cumbria, a Georgian-style property dating back to 1840, has been acquired by Nejat Alkan. The 23-room hotel, set on two acres of landscaped gardens, includes conference facilities and a bar with a terrace. Alkan plans to continue operations while upgrading the property over time. Christie and Co brokered the deal, marking the retirement of longtime owner Brian Proctor.

The Bay Horse Inn in West Woodburn, Northumberland, has hit the market for £325,000. Located along an ancient Roman route, the pub features seven ensuite rooms, a renowned Sunday Carvery, and a scenic riverside setting. Owners Hilda and Johnny Wright are retiring after nearly 40 years in hospitality. The inn presents opportunities for new owners to expand its operations, with an additional building plot also available for purchase.