Michael Caines MBE, former Head Chef of Gidleigh Park, holder of two stars in the Michelin Guide UK 2017 is set to open Lympstone Manor, a country retreat in Devon in spring 2017.

Located on the southern edge of Lympstone village, between Exeter and Exmouth, the Grade II listed Georgian mansion is set in 28 acres with views overlooking the Exe Estuary. In the process of being fully restored and renovated by Michael and his team of architectural and interior design specialists, the former private home will be transformed into a 21 bedroom hotel with a 60-seat fine dining restaurant.

Michael Caines said: “The opening of Lympstone Manor is the realisation of a dream.

“Everything that I have achieved in my long career has brought me to this point where I can fully express my vision of contemporary country house hospitality for the 21st century. I can’t wait to welcome old and new friends to my new home!”

Michael, who left the two Michelin starred Gidleigh Park earlier this year to embark on his new venture, will be at the helm of the menu at Lympstone Manor. As well as working on some new dishes and concepts, Michael is said to be looking forward to recreating his signature dishes using local and seasonal ingredients.

Diners will be able to enjoy Michael’s menu in one of three dining rooms, Haldon, Mamhead, and Powderham which each have their own décor and identity as well views overlooking the Exe Estuary.

A vast wine selection will also be central to the Lympstone Manor. Working with co-director Steve Edwards, they have developed an impressive wine list for the hotel and have plans to plant a vineyard on the slope leading down to the Exe estuary.

There are two basement cellars as well as a wine tasting and dispense room opposite Lympstone Manor’s three dining rooms located on the ground floor. The tasting room will be used to house wine storage cabinets alongside a bank of Wine Emotion dispense machines for the service of wines by the glass as well as a sommeliers table where small groups can enjoy a bespoke wine tasting experience.

Michael Caines MBE left Gidleigh Park in January 2016 after almost 22 years. Michael took over as head chef in 1994 helping the restaurant gain its first Michelin star in 1999 followed by a second star in 2005. Michael is also a former Great British Menu contestant and was created a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) on June 17, 2006.

Nightly rates at Lympstone Manor will start from £245 per night including breakfast. Visit the website for more details www.lympstonemanor.co.uk

Lympstone Manor officially opened on April 3, 2017.

>>> Read more about Michael Caines

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