insideKENT Magazine Issue 139 - November 2023 | Page 129

ADVERTORIAL

EASTWELL MANOR :

Richard Barnes , Head Chef
PERFECTLY POSITIONED DINING IN THE GARDEN OF ENGLAND .
Surrounded by outstanding natural beauty , the enchanting Eastwell Manor makes use of its idyllic , typically English setting . This countryside manor is perfectly positioned in the heart of Kent and ideal for those looking for a change of pace from the hustle and bustle of modern life . The manor ’ s good looks are matched by a unique old-world charm ; a charm that has spanned centuries . Eastwell Manor allows you to immerse yourself in a world where past and present intertwine in perfect harmony .
For nearly 45 years , Eastwell Manor has stood as a hotel and restaurant , catering to guests and visitors from near and far – often celebrating key moments in life . The property , originally built in the mid 16th century , has played host to countless events , from weddings and birthday celebrations for celebrities , to supercar launches and sets of government negotiations that led to the end of apartheid .
Always central to the property ’ s raison d ’ etre has been dining , with the restaurant surrounded by scenic views and the calming atmosphere of the great Garden of England . This warm and cosy setting , with a roaring fireplace and panoramic garden views , also boasts an elegant lounge bar to complement the dining experience .
Since Champneys acquired the manor house nearly seven years ago , millions has been invested in redeveloping facilities ( with more exciting projects in the pipeline ) but above all , the manor restaurant received an ill-timed overhaul just before the pandemic hit . However , now with business patterns stabilised following a tumultuous few years , it is with excitement that they eagerly announce the appointment of Richard Barnes as Head Chef of Eastwell Manor ’ s restaurant .
Barnes joins the Eastwell team following his most recent role as Head Chef at the luxurious Berkeley Hotel in London ’ s Knightsbridge . Known for its vibrant seasonal dishes and multi-AA-Rosette winning all-day dining , it was here that he honed a career ’ s worth of skill , accumulated from other London properties of note including The Ned ( three AA Rosettes ), and The Savoy – working with MasterChef winner Kim Woodward .
Barnes , working closely with Executive Chef David Terrell , is tasked with leading the restaurant through the next iteration in Eastwell ’ s long culinary history . The restaurant is also thrilled to shortly be launching a new á la carte menu fundamentally inspired by the team ’ s passion for working with local suppliers .
They are proud to work with a variety of incredible local businesses . Their locally sourced fresh produce is at the heart of who they are and allows them to create dishes of classic origin with a distinctly Kentish twist . Powerful alliances matter to Eastwell Manor and range from succulent meat from Bodiam Meat Co and delicious cheeses from Walker Cheeses , to fresh fruit sourced from Clockhouse Fruits and fine wines from Gusbourne , Westwell and Wayfarer . They are also proud to offer their in-house harvested honey with Eastwell Bees located within the gardens of the manor .
Eastwell Manor looks forward to welcoming guests both old and new . For further details and updates , please visit champneys . com , or pop in and speak to a member of their friendly team .
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