Aldwark Manor Estate in North Yorkshire has announced the appointment of Richard Smith to the role of general manager, as the hotel prepares to unveil the final phase of its refurbishment.
Aldwark Manor has benefitted from ongoing investment into the property by owners Depho Estates in recent years, including the launch of 3 AA Rosette restaurant Chartwell last May and the opening of new events space ‘Babs’ earlier this summer. The final quarter of 2025 will see the highly anticipated opening of a brand-new luxury spa.
Smith brings nearly two decades of hospitality leadership and a wealth of experience across operations, sales, marketing, digital strategy, and customer experience to his new role.
He previously spent 18 years with Classic Lodges, where he was part of the original senior leadership team that helped establish and grow the brand across the UK. His tenure there was marked by achievements in brand development, customer service, and digital transformation, including work across web development, SEO, content, and e-commerce.
“I’m thrilled to be joining Aldwark Manor Estate at such an exciting time,” said Smith. “In just the last couple of months we’ve already celebrated another major milestone with our Elements restaurant being awarded 2 AA Rosettes, joining the estate’s fine dining flagship, Chartwell, which proudly holds 3 AA Rosettes. The spa is set to open in just a few months and our recently refurbished golf course is looking better than ever. It’s a real privilege to work alongside such a talented and passionate team.”
“We are delighted to welcome Richard Smith to the Aldwark family,” added Mike Sweeting, human resource officer. “His leadership style, strategic mindset, and guest-first philosophy align perfectly with our vision of delivering best in class hospitality that is never ordinary — always Aldwark.”
Aldwark Manor Estate is home to 60 bedrooms and suites and surrounded by 200 acres of countryside.
