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Ambleside’s award-winning boutique hotel, Rothay Manor, has appointed Michelin-starred chef Simon Ulph as Head Chef of its restaurant, Rowan – marking a significant new chapter as the hotel celebrates 10 years under the stewardship of co-owners Jenna and Jamie Shail.
Simon joins from The Stafford in London, where, working alongside Michael Caines, he was instrumental in securing a Michelin star in February 2026. He brings to Rowan an exciting new level of technical precision and ambition that reinforces Rothay Manor’s reputation as one of the leading food destinations in the Lake District.
Originally from Kent, Simon now returns to the north of England with a wealth of experience from some of the UK’s most respected kitchens, including The Ledbury, St Leonards, Climat in Manchester, Northcote and The Gilpin, where he was Senior Sous, running the Michelin star restaurant SOURCE. Most recently Executive Chef at The Stafford, he oversaw all culinary operations across the hotel, combining refined cooking with strong commercial leadership.
“I’m incredibly excited to be joining Rothay Manor at such a pivotal time,” says Simon Ulph. “The Lake District has an incredible wealth of ingredients, and I’m looking forward to creating dishes that reflect the landscape and the seasons. Rowan already has a fantastic reputation, and I’m excited to build on that and take it further.”
At Rowan, Simon will introduce a new à la carte, house and signature tasting menu, rooted in modern British cooking with subtle European and Japanese influences drawn from his travels. A strong emphasis will be placed on provenance and seasonality, working closely with the bounty of regional farmers, growers and producers on their doorstep.
Already awarded three AA Rosettes, Rothay Manor has long been recognised for its culinary offering. With Simon at the helm, Rowan enters a more focused and ambitious phase, with a clear emphasis on precision, flavour and a sense of place, whilst ensuring that the atmosphere is relaxed and approachable.
“This is a hugely exciting moment for us,” says Jamie Shail, co-owner of Rothay Manor. “Simon’s talent, vision and Michelin-starred experience make him a natural fit for Rowan. We’re confident he will elevate the restaurant further while staying true to what makes Rothay Manor special.”
Alongside Simon’s appointment, Rothay Manor has also welcomed a new Operations Director, Jo Dixon, further strengthening the senior team as the business enters its second decade. Jo joins Rothay Manor with a strong background in luxury hospitality, most recently as General Manager at Hale Country Club & Spa. She previously spent four years as Operations Director at The Gilpin, where she oversaw the hotel’s five red star achievement and the launch of SOURCE, awarded a Michelin star in 2023. Together, these appointments mark a confident next step for Rothay Manor. With a renewed focus on exceptional food, warm hospitality and continuous evolution, the hotel is set to build on its success and further establish itself as one of the Lake District’s leading culinary destinations.
Chef News is sponsored by The Kitchen Porters Club
