Today’s news in brief – 4/3/25

The Landmark London has promoted Matteo Sargentelli to the role of head pastry chef. A member of the hotel’s culinary team since 2018, Sargentelli has worked in top London establishments like Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester and Oblix Restaurant. Rising through the ranks from junior pastry sous chef to deputy head pastry chef, he will now lead the pastry team, crafting desserts for the hotel’s restaurants, events, and room service. He expressed his excitement about maintaining the hotel’s traditions while introducing new flavors and techniques.

The Peacock at Rowsley, a boutique hotel in the Peak District, has reopened after a £500,000 refurbishment by new owners, Longbow Ventures. Renovations included upgrades to the kitchen, bar, restaurant, and lounge, with original Victorian stone tiles uncovered. Head chef Dan Smith, who has been with the hotel for 18 years, continues to lead the culinary team, emphasizing seasonal, locally sourced ingredients such as Haddon Estate venison and foraged wild garlic. The hotel’s general manager, Róbert Ciulinaru, brings experience from Michelin-starred establishments. Longbow’s managing director, Rob Hattersley, highlighted their goal of preserving the hotel’s charm while refreshing its appeal.

Orida Hotels has acquired the DoubleTree by Hilton Newbury, renaming it Orida Hotels Newbury. This 113-room property joins Orida’s growing portfolio, which includes several hotels and golf courses in the South East. Located near the M4, it caters to both business and leisure guests, with event spaces for up to 100 attendees. Orida will also introduce Orida Health, offering a gym, swimming pool, steam room, and sauna for both guests and locals. Darren Patt of Countrywide Hotels emphasized their commitment to enhancing guest experiences and optimizing the hotel’s potential.

IHG Hotels and Resorts has launched its midscale brand, Garner, in the UK with the opening of Garner Hotel Preston Samlesbury. Part of IHG’s expanding midscale portfolio, the hotel features 80 modern guestrooms, a British cuisine-focused restaurant, a lounge bar, event spaces, and a fitness suite. Located near the M6, it provides easy access to cities like Manchester and Liverpool. Joanna Kurowska of IHG expressed excitement about the brand’s UK expansion, while general manager Neelesh Chaturvedi highlighted the hotel’s blend of style, service, and affordability, aligning with Garner’s ethos of “easy-going stays that get you on your way.”