Michael Wignall to leave Gidleigh Park for first solo venture
Michael said: "It’s been a pleasure to live and work in Devon, and I am so proud of what I’ve achieved, together with my amazing team at Gidleigh Park. I’m now looking forward to my next venture which I will be announcing in the very near future".
The announcement comes two years after Michael joined Gidleigh Park in 2016 when the chef replaced Michael Caines as executive chef. After joining the hotel the chef was awarded two Michelin stars after just nine months. In January 2017 it also received five rosettes from the AA Restaurant Guide 2018.
Stephanie Hocking, CEO Andrew Brownsword Hotels comments, “Michael has brought a breath of fresh air to Gidleigh Park, and his cooking, innovation and style won Michelin and industry recognition incredibly quickly. We would like to thank Michael for all his efforts that have driven the dining experience forward and have maintained Gidleigh Park’s reputation as one of the UK’s finest country house hotels in the UK.’’
Michael started his career working for Paul Heathcote at Broughton Park. When Paul decided to open up his own restaurant, Heathocote's in 1987, Michael followed the chef joining as junior sous chef. The restaurant went on to gain two Michelin stars while Michael was working there.
He won his first star when he headed up the kitchen at The Old Beams Waterhouses which was also was named the Good Food Guide’s Best County Restaurant under Michael's tutelage.
Throughout his career Michael has also held roles at Cliveden House, Nook Country House in Grasmere and The Devonshire Arms in North Yorkshire.
Prior to joining Gidleigh Park, Michael was head chef of Michael Wignall at The Latymer at Pennyhill Park Hotel & Spa in Surrey which was awarded five AA rosettes. In 2013 it attained its second star in the Michelin Guide UK.
Michel also appeared on BBC2's Great British Menu in 2008 representing the North.
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