Page 16 - Herefoodie 24.indd

Inside Story...

CHRIS THORPE GEORGE WATKINS
The Boot Inn Castle House Hotel
Orleton Hereford City

“Living next door, I began my hospitality From cattle to Castle House, we hear how
journey as a barman in my late teens at General Manager George Watkins became a
The Boot Inn, progressing to assistant hotelier in the city’s leading boutique hotel.
manager, and eventually, manager. “Herefordshire born and bred, I grew up on
Unfortunately, a twist of fate led to our family farm in Ballingham, helping my
the closure of the pub. So, I found a grandad with the sheep and Hereford cattle,
temporary home at the Church Inn at working the potato fields with my dad and
Ludlow, with renowned Cedric Bosi, who’s still do.
expertise and dedication to exceptional
service and quality inspired me, enriching When the family took over Castle House in
my own approach to hospitality. 2007, I started working there a couple of
nights a week, after my farming day. As the
Meanwhile, the Orleton community hotel got busier, two evenings became four
managed to secure the funds to reopen and I worked in every section before running
The Boot Inn, and I returned ‘home’. the hotel full time.
With my wife, Hollie, we are restoring and
rejuvenating this beloved establishment. Like most father-son relationships, we have
our occasional clashes, however, regular
Our vision is a pub renowned for its great meetings to debate different ideas for the
food and welcoming atmosphere, with hotel works well for us and irons out any
regularly changing, seasonal menus, potential disagreements.
showcasing the best of local and fresh
ingredients. Annual events, from themed Building relationships with other local
nights and live music to food festivals and businesses is an important way to drive
community gatherings, make The Boot Inn mutual growth and awareness. Whether
a place where memories are made. it’s joint promotions with neighbouring
attractions or offering special corporate
More than just a pub, it’s deeply rooted rates to local companies.
in community spirit, a gathering place
where stories are shared and friendships Places like Daylesford’s Farm Shop,
are forged, where everyone feels at restaurant and pubs in the Cotswolds inspire
home, from long-time regulars to and influence us. We recognise their simple,
first-time visitors.” natural aesthetic and focus on quality,
home-grown ingredients, just like us.”
Which one piece of business advice
have you found most useful? Decide Which one piece of hospitality business
on the style or type of food you offer, be advice have you found most useful? Keep
consistent and make it the best you can. it simple and don’t worry about trying to be
all things to all people.
bootinnorleton.co.uk
castlehse.co.uk
14 Herefordshire’s BEST FOOD & DRINK GUIDE