GRASMERE TURNS 20
At the beginning of 2015 Grasmere Lodge will celebrate 20 years of welcoming guests from all over the world. To date, more than 40,000 discerning travellers have arrived in need of a break and departed fully rejuvenated. It was on 1 January 1995 that current owner Tom Butler began his tenure at the Lodge, laying the lawn outside the lounge and bar. Since then the chalet and cottages have been built (2003) the lodge designed and constructed (2000), and Tom's lawn has been mown many, many times. We've been especially busy this year with a $250,000 lodge renovation project that includes all new tiling, fitting and fixtures. The bedrooms and public areas had a refresh too, with new carpet. Grasmere is in great shape to celebrate its 20th anniversary. We really hope you can join us.
Welcome aboard to our new chef
We are pleased and excited to welcome Jean-Michel Poulot as head chef at Grasmere Lodge.
Jean-Michel's wealth of experience includes eight years in Michelin Star restaurants in Switzerland following training in France. After moving to Ireland in 1988 he opened 'Side Door' restaurant in the Shelbourne Hotel before guiding Conrad Gallaghers restaurant 'Peacock Alley' to a Michelin star. He enjoyed great success at 'Halo' in Dublin before opening his own restaurant 'Poulot' in 2005. In 2009 Jean-Michel and wife Lorna sold up and moved to New Zealand. After a few years with Christchurch's iconic 'Saggio di vino', Jean-Michel heeded the call of Grasmere and moved to the high country, further ensuring guest dining experiences at our lodge will be consistently outstanding.
Farewell Toddy and Lass
Toddy and Lass, our beautiful golden retrievers, sadly passed after 14 years of living the dream here at Grasmere. We want you to help with the naming of our new pooch (yet to be acquired), who is destined to be best friends with Sam, our incumbent Jack Russell. Keep an eye on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/pages/Grasmere-Lodge/225672697487523 for details on how you can assist.
It's a girl!
February 2014 we welcomed Jo and Tom's baby girl Bella to the Grasmere clan – the first child to be born and raised on the property for some 50 years. At just seven months old, Bella's already familiar with the lay of the land. She walks the trails with Tom in a backpack and has developed a love for riding, thanks to Grasmere's long-serving horse lady Heather.
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