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Welcome to Northcote's Blog
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A Midsummer Night's Dream on the lawns...
A Midsummer Night's Dream performed by the Chapter House Theatre was absolute magic. The weather was sunny and welcoming and the evening performance as part of the North Devon festival was a really popular event and will be repeated next year. Cheryl has booked Chapterhouse to do 'Sense & Sensibility' with an afternoon tea on the lawn beforehand. Watch for more news of this with our annual Year at Northcote flyer in 2011 and through the North Devon Festival
St George's Day Wine Tasting
Our St George's wine tasting event with Chrlie Cotton of Bray Valley Wines in South Molton was a great afternoon. The wines were tasted and the food was savoured and Charlie was his usual charming self. We look forward to hosting another wine tasting lunch soon
AA Housekeeper of the Year 2010” Awards
Northcote Manor, Burrington, Umberleigh, North Devon EX37 9LZ
Cheryl and the team at Northcote would very much like to announce that our Head Housekeeper Stephanie Wooldridge has been named a finalist in the national AA 2010 ‘Housekeeper of the Year’ competition. Thousands of entries were submitted and Steph was placed in the top three in the country, treated to a fabulous celebratory lunch in one of London’s Michelin Star restaurants and given a framed certificate for all her hard work.
Steph who was born and raised in Burrington has worked tirelessly at Northcote Manor for many years and has lead a very successful and happy housekeeping team. Our inspections are always flawless when it comes to housekeeping and this is a huge part of the overall achievement of the whole team that makes up the backbone of Northcote Manor.
It should be stressed that there is nothing that is too much trouble for Steph, she will help a guest with bags, she will chat to them about the area and give directions and pointers about where to go. As a true Devonshire ‘Maid’ she knows exactly how to show off Devon to all our visitors.
“During the recent snow Steph became not just the head housekeeper but a huge part of every department as she became the self appointed courier in her land rover. She pulled out stuck cars from the perilous drive way and she did a huge detour around icy country lanes just to pick up deliveries and drop of linens at the bottom of our steep wooded mile long impassable driveway. In honesty without her the hotel would have been without many essentials perched high on the hill.” Cheryl King General Manager
Easter At the Manor
Easter at Northcote was a real treat this year, the weather held out long enough for an Easter Egg Hunt to take pace on Easter Sunday for our residents and those guests joining us for lunch. The house was full of home grown daffodils and the grounds looked lovely with the spring time flowers lining the drive way.
Mothering Sunday
Mothering Sunday was a huge success this year, the Manor was full for lunch with super duper happy people and Siona was playing her harp beautifully. Thise guests coming for afternoon tea had a lovely afternoon of sunny weather and Devonshire creamed scones. Perfect!
Carols by Candle Light
Our Carols by candle Light Event went beautifully on the evening of 22nd December. The canapés were hot and plentiful, the mulled wine was spiced to perfection and the voices of Siona Stockel and Stephen harvey with their group of musicians were astonishingly serene. The scene was well set for a peaceful and harmonious Christmas.
Guest who were unable to make the evening due to the snow and ice in the abominable weather we had been experiencing can try again next year as the carols by candle light sees its second coming.
Merry Christmas to all and to all a goodnight...
Devon Celebration of Food 2009
The Devon Celebration of Food run by Food Magazine has surpassed each previous year and is now bigger and better than ever incorporating Somerset and Dorset this year. Cheryl & the team at Northcote have thouroughly enjoyed the celebrations be it our Apple Day stay where guests enjoyed our own apples and Hancocks Apple Wine from South Molton or the midweek lunch specials for £10. Watch this space next October because the Devon celebration of Food is not to be missed!
Children's Hospice Southwest Cream tea Picnic
The scene was set for a lovely day when the sun burst inot the sky early in the day. By midday we had a lovely group of families enjoying the games and activities on offer. The prize filled pinatas hanging from the tree were most popular with the children, they had great fun trying to get to the prizes inside. We raised money, had fun and thouroughly enjoyed the day.
Chapterhouse Theatre's production of Romeo & Juliet on the lawns
23rd June ~ Chapter House Theatre's production of 'Romeo and Juliet' took place on the front Lawn from 7.30pm in association with the North Devon Festival. This was a beautiful summers evening, the simple suppers were well attended and the Pimm's was very refreshing. The response to the performance was incredible, we were very busy on the gate and the front lawn held over 150 guests, a small stage and a company of 9 actors. Tickets were £12.00 per Adult, Children were £8.00.
The success of the evening was proof positive that a little love romance and Shakespeare are an irrisitible combination and beat out Eastenders every time!
Saturday 30th May from 7pm ~ Spring Wine Tasting Evening
Matthew Tottenham our very own Sommelier wowed guests on Saturday 30th May with a well rounded, full bodied, Grand Cru presentation on Yearlstone Wines. This wine tasting was to celebrate English Wine Week in particular to highlight Yealrstone Vineyard which is just a stones throw from Northcote Manor. Roger and Juliette are completely besotted with their vineyard and we think it shines through in their produce. They have welcomed Matt and given him the grand tour and some grand tastings in preparation for this evening. The tasting and the gourmet dinner were a total success and many guests are wondering when the next tasting will be... watch this space
A the North Devon Walking Festival and the English Wine Week & Devon Wine Week happened during May. We were offering lunches including a complimentary glass of Devon Yearlstone wine which went donw a treat! 3 courses from £15 served in our beautiful slate roof conservatroy overlooking the walled garden & sun terrace 25th - 28th May.
Easter at the Manor
Northcote Manor enjoyed a magnificent Easter with wonderful spring weather and the arrival of Spring Lamb to the menu. The house and grounds looked wonderful and we had daffodils as far as the eye could see both indoors and out. Easter Sunday was a glorious day with a chocolate easter egg hunt put on within the grounds for guests to enjoy (and they did!) Our groundsman Barry wrote a challenging treasure hunt that would lead guests to the whereabouts of all the eggs. A great treat after breakfast for those who had room!
Mother's Day ~ Sunday 22nd March
Mothering Sunday was a huge sucess at Northcote. Siona Stockel, harpist & Soprano played softly in the background as families dined on three courses of local freshly prepared food in our slate roof conservatory. The grounds were looking beautiful dotted with bright yellow daffodils complimenting the bunches of daffodils in vases throughout the house. All mothers left happy and spoilt wondering how they could match their lunch for father's day.
Conde Nast Johansens Annual Meeting
Kelly and I have just returned from Coombe House near Gittisham, where the annual Johansen meeting was held. A chance to catch up with fellow hoteliers and meet new suppliers. The hotel is a beautiful Elizabethan manor set in 3,500 acres with breathtaking views. If you are staying at Northcote perhaps take a detour to this lovely hotel for a spot of lunch or a delicious cream tea on their lawns ~ Ken & Ruth will certainly make you feel most welcome
Snow, Snow and yes a little more Snow!
The snow came down extremely quickly back at the beginning of February, it caused great difficulty both for our guests, our suppliers and us! However the Manor looked amazing. This picture was kindly taken by Dr Matt Elsdon, so thank you for allowing us to use it, we think its magical...
Wedding Fair 8th March
Our annual wedding fair was absolutely amazing this year, we had a record number of guests at the Manor who took some time to browse and chat with our wedding day specialists whilst sampling our canapes and petit fours. We very much hope that each and every bride and groom found just what they were looking for. We also had a prize draw to raise money for the Children's Hospice South West. Exhibitors were exceptionally generous we were offered portrait sittings from Alan Schofield and from Kensa photography, a selection of wines from St Austell Brewery, some beautiful flower arrangements from Susan's of Crediton and Smallridges of Barnstaple, as well as a voucher for a celebration cake from Sue at Cake Box and a half price wedding dress from Frilly Frocks. Our prize total was a little lacking so we have decided to roll the prize draw over to our Charity Cream tea Picnic on August 9th in order to make the most money for this worthy charity.
Congratulations to Matt..
During January, Matt has been studying hard for his Level 2 Intermediate award from the Wine & Sprit Education Trust. Each Saturday was spent at The Devon Wine School based in Crediton, where he learnt all about the viniculture and viticulture of the grapes and I'm sure a lot more, although I don't understand everything there is to do with wine! I am thrilled to announce Matt passed with flying colours, please look out for his new wine list and he has also chosen some fabulous wine to go with our delicious food ~ Enjoy!
Valentine's Day
Over the valentine's weekend we hosted two very romantic events, the first was held on Friday 13th when our intimate restaurant was filled with candles and couples in love for our delicious celebratory valentine's evening. Siona, our local harpist played during the evening whilst Champagne and canapés were sipped and nibbled then a four course meal was enjoyed follwed by hand made chocolates and freshly brewed coffee. The scene for proposals was set but no one was brave enough to pop the question.
The second event however was proof that one romantic soul did propose albeit not the previous night as Northcote Manor was the setting for a Valentines wedding. We wish only good fortune and everlasting romance for the lucky newlyweds.
Christmas & New Year...
Christmas & New Year were a wonderful sucess, the house was twinkling with candles and fairy lights, the trees were trimmed and we had a house full of very happy guests. The atmosphere was one of relaxed indulgence with full afternoon teas each day, bowls of brightly coloured chocolates on coffee tables and large tubs of chestnuts ready to roast on the open log fires.
Throughout the season our conservatory was the festive setting for our now famous £15 christmas lunches. Crackers were pulled food was enjoyed and the christmas spirit was invoked. Look out for our christmas lunch offer next December.
Christmas Gourmet Evening 6th December 2008
The 4th Annual Christmas Gourmet Evening was an unprecedented success. Candles glowed and champagne flowed as guests arrived to slate platters of canapés and a dreamy festive atmosphere. Men in black tuxedos and women exuding glamour were to be seen throughout the Manor taking photo opportunities and sipping bubbles.
The menu was a delicious combination of classic cuisine with a festive twist. The apple and pear crumble was sweet and aromatic with christmas spices and the Pork Tenderloin exactly that. The food was absolutely delicious and the ambience alive with festive cheer. Let's hope that next year is just as good.
Starter
Pavé of Cornish Cod
with Jerusalem Artichoke Purée, Baby Leaf & Vine Tomato Dressing
Petit Chablis 2007 Jean Marc Brocade
Main
Tenderloin of Local Free Range Tamworth Pork
with Braised Fondnt Potato, Marinated Provencale Vegetable Gateau, Crisp Fine Bean Parcel & Madeira Sauce
Pinot Noir, Louis Latour 2004, Burgundy
Dessert
Individual Northcote Manor Apple & Pear Crumble
with Apple Compote, Calvados Ice Cream & Lashings of English Custard
Gaillac Doux Blonde 2004 Domaine de Gineste
~O~
A Selection of West Country Cheeses Served with Grapes, Apples & Celery
North Devon + Awards ~ Castle Hill, Filleigh
Friday 28th November
On a frosty evening, Shebion and I ventured out from the warmth of the Manor to see if we had achieved the 'Best Hotel' in North Devon Award. This was the first time we had both been to Castle Hill, it twinkled in the darkness as we drove in. A hot Apple punch greeted us on our arrival, there were around 200 people who were in attendance all from differing businesses and all there to promote the best of North Devon. After some delicious local food, we waited anxiously as the winners were announced, at last it was our catagory and I am delighted to say Northcote is now the very proud owner of a stunning Dartington Glass trophy. Again our thanks go to everyone who voted for us and we look forward to welcoming you to the BEST HOTEL in North Devon.
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Pride of Britain Annual Conference ~ GleneaglesWow what an experience. We arrived at Gleneagles on Sunday 23rd November in two inches of snow, warm glowing fires welcomed us through their magnificent doors. I was in complete awe of this majestic hotel, which included a swimming pool, 20 treatments rooms, a shopping arcade (selling Rolex watches, designer jewellrey, cashmir sweaters, golfing equipment etc. etc. etc.), three stunning restaurants and of course their beautiful bedrooms. Gleneagles has three golf courses, which Andy was thrilled about! A 'wee' course, the 'Kings' course and their main PGA Course, unfortuantely due to the weather golf was postponed! Visting other hotels, certainly gives you ideas to bring back and implement, although we won't be wearing kilts whilst we serve you in our dining room! If you ever get the chance to visit Gleneagles, I can certainly recommend it. |
Devon Celebration of Food throughout October
Gourmet Overnight Stay & Devon wine lunches
Throughout October we were offering a gourmet delight at Northcote Manor. Inspired by the freshest local produce our Head Chef designed 3 signature dishes that with accompanying wines. For a truly opulent dining experience guests could savour our set signature gourmet dinner and stay over night in one of our recently refurbished bedrooms for just £110 per person inclusive of dinner with wines, accommodation and full English Breakfast the next morning.
Our Devon wine lunches were equally successful with three courses and a complimentary glass of 'number 2' Yearlstone white wine. Roger of the Yearlstone vineyard was a fantastic support and provided interesting information to accompany the offerings.
South West Tourism Excellence Awards 2008/2009
Murder Mystery
The murder mystery weekend was a wonderful sucess, the mystery was solved in style and much money was gambled, lost and won at the fun casino. The spies in training staying at the hotel spent their R&R time relaxing with a delicious afternoon tea and challenging their minds with our Northcote Manor Treasure Hunt and a mystifying coded message from C, head of the school for international spies.
Dinner was a dressy affair with plenty of martinis and bubbles in between clues and outbursts from some of the other "spies come actors" in attendance. All in all after the murdered was fingered and the last martini was drained we had a house full of very contented guests.
Masterchef wins over the young hearts at Northcote
With the recent round of Masterchef being focused on the young kitchen professionals out there, the whole team at Northcote were glued to the set. It is always interesting to watch others in your profession show what they are made of on t.v. Cheryl our General manager in particular was extremely excited to see Gidleigh Park featured on one of the episodes, why? I hear you ask, It should have been Northcote! I hear some of you cry, well Gidleigh Park is very dear to Northcote not only because we share a county and appreciate the ethos of the hotel but because Cheryl is married to Head Pastry chef Andrew King.
As we watched two hopefuls battle it out in the kitchens at Gidleigh we were treated to glimpses of Andy working away in his section. It was wonderful to get a small insight into such an esteemed kitchen and who knows, maybe one day Northcote's kitchen will be featured.
Sizzling Summer BBQs
There are many wonderful ways to while away a Sunday many of which involve eating, drinking an being merry and summer BBQs at Northcote do not disappoint.
Richie and his team light the BBQ at midday and a selection of fresh salads, tasty vegetarian treats and fresh home made bread are presented in the conservatory. Fresh Salmon parcels, marinated chicken kebabs, minute steaks and tender pok loin that could make even the most devout vegetarian salivate sizzle away on the BBQ and miraculously never dry out.
Come along and you will be glad you did especially at only £9.95 per person (under 5's eat free)
Siona Stockel Musical Evening..
Outstanding music in a wonderful setting, it was atmospheric and moving and provided a great lift to an otherwise dull start to summer. The evening started with Pimms on the lawn followed by the musical delights of Siona, Stephen and their other musicians. Dinner was a delicious feast to savour and the comments on the night were wonderful, we are expecting Siona's Christmas offerings to be just as atmospheric and sucessful.
New Zealand Wine tasting Luncheon ~
Wednesday 11th June
Twenty one guests enjoyed a fabulous lunch tasting delicious wines from New Zealand. Canapes were enjoyed out on the terrace sampling the first wine, Gewurztraminer, 2006 from Jane Hunters Vineyard in Marlborough. Everyone was then invited through for more Delicious food accompanied by six different wines. Carol Marriot gave a lively talk on all the wines sampled through lunch. Carol has been to New Zealand twice and enjoyed sampling wine from over 25 vineyards, apparently there are over 550 vineyards in New Zealand, so I believe she is going back to sample a few more! Guests dined on the following lunch
Hand Picked Cornish Crab Tartlet - Riesling, 2006, St Clair, Marlborough
Pave of Wild Sea Bass with Confied Baby Tomatoes, Baby Onions and a Vine Tomato & Chervil Dressing - 'Green Lip' Sauvignon Blanc 2007 Jackson Estate Marlborough
Salad of Oak Smoked Duck with Fresh Herbs - Pinot Noir 2006 Jane Hunter & Pinot Noir 2006 Mount Edward, Central Otago
Loin of Exmoor Lamb with Gratin Potatoes, Provencal Vegetable Gateau, Crisp Fine Bean Parcel and it's own Gravy - Merlot 2005 Kim Crawford North Island
Grand Marnier Scented Creme Brulee with Marinated Orange Segments and Orange Ice Cream - Noble Riesling 2006 Jackson Estate Marlborough
The Noble Riesling was certainly the most popular wine of all ~ Scrummy was certainly mentioned a couple of times! If you wish to join us on our next Wine Tasting Lunch, please do get in touch, at £40.00 per person they are great value.
Devon Wine Week ~
Monday 26th May ~ Saturday 31st May
We enjoyed a really positive week promoting our Local vineyards in the West Country. Our guests enjoyed wines from Sharpham Vineyard, including Sharpham 2006 Dart Valley Reserve. This is produced using really unusual grape varieties including Madeline Angevine, Bacchus and Pheonix. A soft, fruity off-dry wine achieved by blending the three grape varieties carefully.
The family partnership of Sharpham Vineyard has been proudly producing excellent wines for over twenty years and their wines consistently win awards at national and international competitions, one of the main reasons we were proud to promote their wines through Devon Wine Week.
Many thanks to everyone who came and supported us.
