Two Michelin starred chef James Close announces summer residency at Rockliffe Hall

A renowned chef has announced a summer residency at Rockliffe Hall.

James Close, the former chef patron of the Raby Hunt, joined the hotel and spa as culinary director in February 2024. As well as a brand-new restaurant to open at the five star spot in 2025, it has now been announced that he will open Terra next month.

The summer residency, which will be located on the first floor of the hotel, boasts a balcony for drinks and views over the 375-acre estate and 18-hole golf course. It will offer guests an ingredient-led menu and a relaxed dining experience that "showcases the best of land and sea".

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Guests can expect a menu featuring dishes such as carabineros, grilled over charcoal with garlic, wine, chilli, and parsley,with a fresh-baked baguette and a signature sushi selection. There will also be dishes designed for two, like James' take on bouillabaisse with lobster, scallops and seabass, or a 65-day aged sirloin cooked on the bone over charcoal with confit red peppers.

A wine table will take centre stage in the 35-cover restaurant, chilling and showcasing bottles to inspire guests' choices.

James, who was the first chef in the North East to be awarded two Michelin stars at the Raby Hunt near Darlington, said: "At Terra, we are cooking food that focuses on great ingredients and great flavours, both from near and far. It's a relaxed experience where guests can order a selection of plates from different sections of the menu, to share or not, and enjoy with a few glasses of interesting wine."

Shauna Robb, General Manager at Rockliffe Hall, added: "We are excited to welcome Terra to the hotel to offer guests and locals a new relaxed dining experience that brings together James' skills and love for high quality ingredients. It also marks the first phase in developing the offering at Rockliffe Hall as part of our journey to become a world-class luxury destination."

Terra will open on June 13. Reservations can be made online for Wednesday to Saturday, 6.30pm to 8.30pm.