Peter Howarth to join Hipping Hall as head chef as Oli Martin is set to step down

MasterChef: The Professionals 2018 finalist Oli Martin is stepping down from his head chef role at Hipping Hall's four AA-Rosette restaurant after seven years of tenure.

As of October 31st, Peter Howarth, formerly the head chef at Gidleigh Park, who succeeded Paul Leonard as the head chef of the Devonshire Arms in Burlington last year, will take over his functions at the Kirkby Londsdale restaurant. 

Announcing the news on social media, MasterChef: The Professionals 2018 finalist Oli said: "I've got some exciting projects in the pipeline so you've got to stay tuned for further news." 

Thanking the whole team at Bettys and Taylors the seven years Oli has spent working there, he specifically expressed gratitude to Wildsmith Hotels owner Andrew "for giving me the tools and the creative freedom to be able to grow into the chef and person i am now. You have been and will continue to be a huge influence to myself.

"A magnificent boss/owner/friend/advisor/influencer/leader/creator."

On his appointment, Peter, who was the head chef at Gidleigh Park when it earned two Michelin stars and became the first restaurant in the country to receive five AA Rosettes, said: “After seeing Hipping Hall I just fell in love with the place.  Throughout my career I have used the produce from the three counties that surround Hipping Hall; it's just the perfect environment for my food and I know that we are going to create something really special here.

"Kirkby Lonsdale also happens to be a beautiful part of the world that I have lived in before and I can’t wait to move back there with my family.”

Finally, Andrew Wildsmith said: “We are very excited to have Peter Howarth joining us. The appointment marks a very exciting next step for Hipping, which has recently achieved four AA Rosettes and holds a very bright future. I’m thrilled we have partnered with such a talented chef who shares similar values with regards to a forward-thinking, yet classical kitchen.

"I know together we are going to create something very special for our guests. We will miss Oli and I want to thank him again for all his hard work and dedication these past years as well as wishing him the very best for his exciting next venture”.