Announcing the start of refurbishment of Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in January, with a reopening scheduled for summer 2027, the chef-patron Raymond Blanc said that he will also be hanging up his chef’s whites.
After four decades, Britain’s renowned French chef will assume the role of “lifetime ambassador” upon the reopening of the restaurant. Blanc, the culinary mastermind behind the esteemed establishment situated in Great Milton, Oxfordshire, established the restaurant in 1984. Remarkably, under Blanc’s guidance, Le Manoir secured two Michelin stars in every year since its opening.
“As we begin this transformation, my role too will evolve. I remain deeply committed to guiding and nurturing the spirit of Le Manoir, as its Founder and Lifetime Ambassador, with the same love and vision that have shaped it since the very beginning,” said Raymond Blanc
Blanc’s influence extended to generations of hospitality professionals, many of whom embarked on their careers under his guidance. The Le Manoir alumni include renowned figures such as Marco Pierre White, Michael Caines, Ollie Dabbous, Luke Selby, and Eric Chavot.
Reinvention of a classic
The Oxford Mail reported that whilst the hotel and restaurant will be closed, there would be redundancies, with the majority of 150 staff affected. “The temporary closure will regrettably mean that some staff roles will be affected and will lead to redundancies while work is carried out.” Adding, that they would “provide support and guidance” for those affected.
Belmond Hotels said the extensive redevelopment will ensure Le Manoir remains at “the forefront of luxury British hospitality for many more decades” and will continue celebrate its philosophy of garden gastronomy. The hotel chain said explained that the refurbishment promises “a timeless retreat immersed in nature, elevating accommodation, culinary experiences, and garden landscaping.”
Blanc explained, “Le Manoir has been the canvas of my life’s work, a sanctuary where passion, excellence, and beauty have come to life every single day for over four decades. Together with my extraordinary team, we have built something truly timeless. The redevelopment will allow Le Manoir to evolve for the future, to meet the needs of the modern guest while staying true to its soul and values. It is not simply a renovation, but a reinvestment in sustainability, in creativity, and in the spirit of excellence that has defined us.”
The luxury hospitality company, Belmond has some 47 properties in its portfolio, including hotels, trains, river cruises, and safaris. Founded by James Sherwood, the company is now part of the LVMH group. In addition to Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Belmond operates iconic locations such as Hotel Cipriani in Venice, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and the Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janeiro.
