Today’s news in brief – 29/1/25
Middletons Hotel in York, part of the Daniel Thwaites hospitality group, has appointed Oliver Stott as its new general manager. Stott brings 22 years of experience in the hospitality sector, having worked at prestigious establishments like Malmaison, Dakota Hotels, and Radisson Blu. Before joining Middletons, he was the general manager at Cedar Court Hotels Harrogate. He previously worked with Daniel Thwaites at Thorpe Park Hotel and Spa in Leeds. Stott is also a member of the Institute of Hospitality and recently joined the board of directors for York BID. He expressed enthusiasm about leading Middletons, praising the company’s welcoming culture. Chris Hill, operations director at Daniel Thwaites, highlighted Stott’s leadership and financial expertise, expressing confidence in his ability to drive the hotel’s success.
Pinchinthorpe Hall, a 17th-century manor house near the North York Moors, has been put on the market with an annual rent between £55,000 and £60,000. The property includes six ensuite bedrooms, four grand reception rooms, and a two-bedroom manager’s apartment. It also features a private bistro bar and a fully equipped catering kitchen. Located near Guisborough, the venue offers scenic views, including the landmark Roseberry Topping. Mark Worley, director at Christie & Co, described it as an excellent opportunity for hospitality businesses, particularly for weddings and exclusive accommodations. He added that the landlord is open to flexible lease terms to help new businesses grow.
Wildes Hotel Group has restarted construction on a £5m boutique hotel in Chester, following a delay in 2022 due to additional planning permissions. Scheduled to open in spring 2026, the hotel will be located in Chester’s historic Rows and feature 18 boutique rooms, a rooftop spa, and a high-end restaurant, X by Harry Guy. The hotel will include luxury features such as free-standing bathtubs under skylights and a private four-seat cinema. The rooftop spa will offer a 32ft pool and amphitheater sauna. CEO Paul Wildes expressed excitement, thanking Grosvenor for their support in securing a long lease.
The Montenotte in Cork has earned a prestigious five-star rating from Fáilte Ireland for its Woodland Suite Experience, the first of its kind in Ireland. Launched in August 2024, the hilltop suites blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, offering panoramic views of Cork City and the River Lee. The suites feature Italian travertine finishes, scenic-view bathtubs, private terraces, and luxury amenities such as Dyson hair dryers and Jameson whiskey. Guests also have access to The Montenotte’s Bellevue Spa, private cinema, and Victorian gardens. Owners Frankie and Jo Whelehan see this milestone as a step toward making Cork a luxury travel destination.
