Gilpin Hotel & Lake House Appoints Chris Cooper As General Manager To Lead Luxury Hotel To New Heights In The Lake District

The Gilpin Hotel & Lake House located in the scenic Lake District has selected Chris Cooper to serve as its General Manager which will bring a new phase of development to the hotel and its operational activities. Chris brings fifteen years of experience in five-star hotels and Michelin-star restaurants to his new position at The Grand in York where he helped improve customer satisfaction and drive business expansion. His appointment comes at a time when Gilpin Hotel & Lake House aims to continue its commitment to outstanding guest experiences and strengthen its presence in the Lake District.

A Proven Leader with Impressive Achievements

Chris Cooper brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in hospitality management. With a career spanning renowned establishments such as Lucknam Park, Rockliffe Hall, and Whatley Manor, Chris has become known for his focus on people , both the guests and the hotel staff. At The Grand, York, his leadership led to record-high guest satisfaction scores and a significant reduction in team turnover. Under his guidance, the hotel received multiple accolades, including VisitEngland’s ‘Large Hotel of the Year 2024’ and the Sunday Times ‘Best Places to Work 2023’.

Chris was also recognised as ‘Leader of the Year 2025’, a testament to his leadership abilities and dedication to creating a positive, empowering workplace culture. These achievements, combined with his expertise in running luxury hotels, make him a natural fit for the role at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House.

Strengthening the Guest Experience at Gilpin

As the new General Manager of Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Chris Cooper aims to enhance the guest experience, focusing on creating long-lasting memories and exceptional service. He expressed his commitment to fostering a strong culture of genuine hospitality, something that he believes sets the hotel apart from others in the region. With a track record of improving operational performance, Chris’s leadership is expected to elevate the guest experience, ensuring that each visitor feels valued and cared for.

The hotel’s reputation for luxury and tranquillity is well-established, offering guests private wellness experiences and access to two exquisite restaurants. Gilpin’s Michelin-starred restaurant, SOURCE, and the contemporary pan-Asian Gilpin Spice offer a remarkable culinary experience. Under Chris’s leadership, these offerings will continue to flourish, with plans to further refine and elevate every aspect of the guest experience, from personalised services to tailored wellness treatments.

Enhancing the Hotel’s Unique Offerings

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House offers a distinctive blend of luxury and relaxation. Set in the heart of the stunning Lake District, just four miles from Windermere, the hotel is a sanctuary for those seeking respite from their busy lives. The property consists of two hotels located just over a mile apart, providing guests with the ultimate in privacy and seclusion. Notably, many rooms feature private hot tubs, and the Lake House offers a beautiful woodland spa trail, ensuring that guests can unwind in complete tranquillity.

With Chris at the helm, the hotel will continue to emphasise these unique offerings, ensuring that guests experience a blend of style, sophistication, and warmth that is rare to find in luxury hospitality. Chris has already expressed his admiration for Gilpin’s balance of elegance and comfort, stating that the hotel offers the perfect combination of high-end amenities and a welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel at ease.

A Vision for the Future of Gilpin

Chris Cooper’s appointment comes following the departure of Thomas Ferrante, who has returned to his home country of Malta. During his tenure, Ferrante was instrumental in the hotel’s continued success, and his leadership has been appreciated by both staff and guests. However, the Cunliffe family, owners of Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, are optimistic that Chris will continue to build on this strong foundation.

Looking Ahead: Gilpin’s Future in Luxury Hospitality

Chris Cooper will help the hotel achieve successful outcomes through his efforts to build positive team dynamics and create guest experiences and maintain operational standards. Gilpin Hotel and Lake House will improve its status as an elite Lake District luxury hotel through his leadership which will attract international visitors to experience its unmatched offerings. The next phase of the Gilpin story will develop through his dedication to delivering high standards of quality and hospitality innovation while maintaining exceptional guest experiences at the hotel.

Image Credit: Gilpin Hotel & Lake House

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