A top Cumbrian chef is set to appear on the BBC’s Great British Menu.
Carlisle-born James Hill, who is head chef and owner of The Oak at Curthwaite, will be competing in the prestigious competition.
He will feature as one of four talented chefs representing the North West of England in the regional heats, which start on Tuesday January 28 at 8pm on BBC Two and iPlayer and will see the chefs go head to head for a place in finals week.
James has built a reputation for excellence in the industry and is a classically trained two AA rosette holder, known for his passion for showcasing local produce with Cumbrian flair.
He is also a true champion of the Cumbrian region and has owned and operated a number of restaurants in the area, including the Michelin-rated Lounge on the Green, which cemented his status as a leading figure in the culinary world.
Starting on Tuesday January 28, the series will see three one-hour episodes air each week for the first eight weeks, covering each regional heat, followed by five episodes in finals week and a grand series finale – bringing the show to a close with a historical banquet, to be held at Blenheim Palace.
This year will mark the show’s 20th anniversary and the theme is ‘Great Britons’ which will see chefs draw inspiration from important people, who have come from their area.
Andi Oliver will return to present the series alongside a judging line-up of Michelin-starred, GBM double banquet winner, Tom Kerridge, comedian and food podcast presenter Ed Gamble and new for this year, Scotland’s Lorna McNee, of Michelin-starred restaurant Cail Bruich, a former champion of champions on Great British Menu.
James, who said he is very excited to be part of the show, added: “To be asked to star on such a renowned programme was a great privilege.
“When I got the call, I could only say yes—it’s an incredible opportunity to represent the North West and share my passion for food with the nation.”
James will also compete against Lake District-based chef Jack Bond in the heat. Jack is head chef and co-owner of Michelin-starred and three AA rosette The Cottage in the Wood in Whinlatter, near Keswick.
Also in the heat are chefs with restaurants in Liverpool and Manchester.
“However, that all changed when I became a dad in 2024, as well as buying The Cottage in the Wood with my wife Beth.
“Both of those momentous events gave me the impetus to put my name in the hat and push myself beyond my comfort zone.
“I’m looking forward to the experience and having the opportunity to compete alongside some very talented chefs representing the North West region.
You can watch James on Great British Menu on Tuesday January 28 at 8pm on BBC Two and iPlayer.
