Preview Of Grantley Hall, Ripon

One of the most luxurious hotel openings of the year will be right here in Yorkshire - Grantley Hall near Ripon opens this spring boasting 47 opulent rooms and suites, four exceptional restaurants, three sophisticated bars and a Three Graces Spa. As a wedding venue it appears to have become one of the most desired venues not just in the county but the north of England.

The house was built by Thomas Nelson and his son Fletcher Norton, first Baron of Grantley in the 17th century and is based on a Palladian design by English architect Issac Ware.

Over its 300 year old history the house has welcomed guests from all walks of life including prominent international businessmen to the country's leading politicians, society families to senior members of the royal family including Queen Mary and the Princess Royal.

The house stands in magnificent manicured grounds with far reaching views, the historic Japanese Garden is a focal point. The River Skell borders the house and runs the full length of the driveway.

Yorkshire born chef Shaun Rankin, who gained his first Michelin star in 2005 for Bohemia in St Helier, Jersey will be returning to his roots to run Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall. The aim is to make the restaurant one of the most highly acclaimed restaurants in the region.

The hotel is not just looking to appeal to Yorkshire customers though:

"Most of our trade besides Harrogate, Leeds and York will come we expect from London and the south east - people who like a good 5 star experience" explained Andrew McPherson, general manager.

"We have been invited to be included in the membership of Relais Chateaux Guide of prestigious hotels and restaurants of the world - even before we have opened. The development of Grantley Hall is a phenomenal for Yorkshire" he continues.

Recruiting the right calibre of staff remains a challenge as I asked Andrew if the threat of Brexit and a No Deal situation might hamper their chances of keeping European members off the team.

"It is a huge challenge" he agrees.

"We are happy to go to South Africa, Australia if need be. We will be running the Grantley Academy - our dedicated development facility based at East Lodge within the Grantley Estate will offer on the job training, personal development, managerial and supervisory training and professional qualifications."

Owner Valeria Sykes is dedicated to restoring the Grade 11 listed mansion back to its original glory. Deluxe Rooms start from £345.00 including breakfast.

Almost half of the rooms are suites with junior, superior and grand categories. There will be two signature suites named the Royal and the Presidential Suite, the latter will have its own entrance foyer, guest WC, private Klafs steam room along with a flexible ante-room.

"I started off my career as a kitchen porter, now having worked my way up I am managing the most exciting hotel development programme not just in Yorkshire but the whole of the country" Andrew says excitedly.

It all sounds magnificent and magical - another first for Yorkshire.

Grantley Hall, Ripon, North Yorkshire HG4 3ES
www.grantleyhall.co.uk