Expertly cultivated by Head Gardener, Janet Queen and her team, our flourishing gardens are bursting with delicious fresh fruit and vegetables. Embracing 'field to fork' cooking, our Head Chef, Noel Breaks, designs our corporate menus around this wonderful seasonal produce. When he's not foraging for leaves and herbs, Noel thoughtfully sources meat and fish from local farmers and producers. As Rose Castle continues to grow, so will our horticultural outputs, meaning more fresh produce for our guests to enjoy, just as the bishops did for centuries before them.
Noel's career started in Bradford as a day release student at the 'Hotel Training Company'.
He first got to grips with a working kitchen at 'Holdsworth House', Halifax, moving around sections every 6 months to hone his skills in different aspects of cooking.
Moving on to the 'Isle of Eriska', a 4 Red Star hotel with 3 AA rosettes (one of only 8 in Scotland at the time), Noel started as a Chef de Partie in its demanding kitchen. Though firm, the Head Chef encouraged Noel to think for himself, try new things and experiment with dishes, all while maintaining the highest standards.
Leathes Head Hotel, Borrowdale - 3 Silver Stars, 2 AA Rosettes - Head Chef 2017- 2021
Armathwaite Hall, Bassenthwaite - 4 Red Stars, 2 AA Rosettes - Head Chef 2021-2022
Crossbasket Castle, Glasgow - 5 Star, 3 Rosettes - Head Chef 2022 - 2023
"At work, I like to cook most dishes, but what I enjoy most is improving something I've made before. I guess it's that constant chase for perfection.
At home, it's pizza. Making the dough from scratch, choosing toppings, using fresh mozzarella. As much as it dements me, baking with my daughter is always fun; seeing how excited she gets at the end result, then never bothering to eat any of it!"
You'll have 24-hour access to your own fully fitted and kitted out guest kitchen. This practical, homely space is ideal if you're feeling jet-lagged and fancy scrambling some eggs in the middle of the night, or grabbing a freshly brewed coffee and pastry between meetings. Our customer fridges are perfect for those with halal or kosher needs.
To elevate your event, our experienced Head Chef will plan a bespoke menu that reflects the tastes and preferences of your guests to a price point agreed by you.
We offer a diverse and delectable array of food and drink options; from a quick-serve business lunch to elegantly presented canapés and sumptuous main courses, your chosen menu will feature a fusion of flavours designed to delight.
Complementing our culinary offerings, we also offer a wide selection of beverages, including premium wines, cocktails, craft beers, and refreshing non-alcoholic options. Whether you're hosting a formal gala or a casual networking event with hot drinks and delicious cakes and pastries, our food and drink offerings are sure to impress your guests.