Raymond Blanc is stepping back from his role as chef-patron of Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons to become a “lifetime ambassador” for the hotel and restaurant, which will close for 18 months at the end of this year to allow for a “visionary redevelopment”.
Raymond, now 75, founded Le Manoir in a village near Oxford 41 years ago, establishing it as a leader of the British gastronomic scene, a training kitchen for generations of young chefs and a pioneer of sustainable cuisine. A permanent fixture on the annual Harden’s 100 list of the UK’s best restaurants, Le Manoir is ranked at No 7 this year.
Raymond said: “Le Manoir has been the canvas of my life’s work, a sanctuary where passion, excellence, and beauty have to come 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 into sustainability, in creativity, and in the spirit of excellence that has defined us.
“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.“
Since 2014 Le Manoir has been part of the Belmond group of international luxury hotels, which was itself acquired my the French-owned luxury goods conglomerate LVMH in 2019.
Belmond announced the temporary closure (January 2026 to summer 2027) on Monday at a meeting with staff, who were told it would mean a number of redundancies. It is understood that 150 jobs may be lost.
The company said: “As an employer that places the highest value on the passion, commitment and wellbeing of its staff, Belmond will work closely with affected individuals to provide support and guidance during the transition.”
In July it was announced that Luke Selby, executive chef of Le Manoir since January 2023, was entering a “culinary partnership” with Palé Hall Hotel, near Bala in north Wales.
