A new group general manager has been appointed to oversee venues owned by the Ciel Hotels.
Nick Hanson will oversee all three of the company’s venues – Askham Hall, the Queen’s Head Askham and the George and Dragon Clifton and its expansion to Sharrow Bay.
Nick’s vision for Ciel Hotels centres around Askham Hall, he said.
Ciel Hotels said: ”As we continue to grow, we aim to replicate this excellence across all our properties, strengthening our position as a family-run business deeply embedded in the community.
“In the short term, our goal is to reinforce these values while positioning ourselves as leaders in the UK hospitality industry.
“Our project at Sharrow Bay on the shores of Ullswater will honour these same principles.”
Sharrow Bay holds a special place in Nick’s career. Having started in hospitality in the late 80s, he sees Sharrow Bay Country House Hotel as the trailblazer that set the standard for today’s leading hotels and restaurants in the UK.
Nick worked alongside many of the original team members as they transitioned leadership from Brian and Francis.
With head chef Richard Swale and front of house manager Nico Chieze, Nick said he believed they can restore Sharrow Bay to its former glory – combining genuine hospitality with culinary excellence.
Ciel Hotels said: “While following in the footsteps of Brian and Francis is no easy task, Nick is excited by the prospect of creating new legendary experiences and building on the pride the local community has always had in this iconic location.”
Throughout his career, Nick has worked alongside some of the best leaders and chefs, including stints at The Lygon Arms, The Royal Scotsman Train, Sharrow Bay, The Bath Priory, The Idol Rocks, and Mallory Court.
Ciel Hotels’ Chris Curry, who welcomed Nick to the Lake District in the 90s and ignited his passion for the hospitality industry during his time at Leeming House.
The team said they were excited to have Nick leading Ciel Hotels and are looking forward to the future.
