Chef Paul Nicholson to head Rockliffe Hall’s flagship restaurant

Paul Nicholson has been appointed as head chef of Rockliffe Hall in Hurworth, County Durham.

Nicholson will be leading the resort’s flagship Orangery restaurant, which is due to open later this month.

He will be joining from the Clock House in Ripley, Surrey, which retained its Michelin-star and three-AA-rosettes since he joined the team in 2020.

Nicholson first trained as a chef through an apprenticeship at the Hilton Hotel before taking on the role of commis pastry chef at the Bath Priory.

He has also worked at the Yorke Arms in the Yorkshire Dales, Storrs Hall in the Lake District and Lords of the Manor and the Dial House in the Costwolds.

Nicholson said his cooking revolves around seasonal produce, unusual pairings and modern techniques.

He added: “The Rockliffe Hall estate has so much to offer, particularly the walled kitchen gardens which were redeveloped earlier this year. I’m excited about working with the Orangery team and the array of ingredients that are readily available to forage in the local area, coupled with the excellent produce that is available right on the doorstep.”

Jason Adams, managing director of Rockliffe Hall, said: “This is such an exciting time for Rockliffe Hall. We have so many plans in the pipeline as we enter 2023. Rockliffe Hall is one of the highest rated hotels in England, and both Paul and I are deeply committed to making the Orangery restaurant one of the best dining venues in the country."

Rockliffe Hall dates back to the 1800s. It is an AA-rated five-star resort with a 50,000 square foot spa, an 18-hole golf course and 61 rooms.