Holker Hall & Gardens has announced its management team for the 2026 visitor season as preparations are finalised for the heritage attraction’s reopening next week.
The award‑winning venue reopens on Wednesday, March 18, and its team is preparing to welcome visitors back for another year of events, gardens and seasonal experiences.
The new season will see a refreshed management structure overseeing visitor operations at one of Cumbria’s most distinctive historic estates.
The 2026 visitor services team maintains some familiar faces under the leadership of head of visitor services Fran Horne.
Chef Ben Glover and operations assistant Anne‑Laure Kenny provide continuity, while new recruits chef James Ashcroft and cafe manager Ruth Birkett bring new ideas and expertise to the team. David Osbaldeston completes the operations line‑up, joining Holker from Williamson Park in Lancaster.
The team will work to deliver Holker’s programme of seasonal events, garden experiences and guided visits throughout the year.
Head of visitor services Fran Horne said the new team brought a blend of experience, creativity and local knowledge that will help to deliver an even better visitor experience at Holker.
She said: “We’re delighted to welcome our management team for the 2026 season.
“Holker is a very special place and it takes a committed team behind the scenes to ensure every visitor enjoys a memorable day here.
“Each member of the team brings their own expertise and enthusiasm, and together they will help us build on Holker’s reputation for warm hospitality, beautiful gardens and engaging events.”
She added that the reopening marks an exciting moment in the estate’s annual calendar.
She said: “The opening of the hall and gardens in March always feels like the true start of spring at Holker.
“The team has been working hard over the winter months preparing the hall, gardens and visitor facilities, and we’re looking forward to welcoming guests back from March 18.”
