Welcome to Part Two of our brand new blog series, where each month we’ll be taking a sneaky trip behind the scenes to chat to a couple of our much-loved members of staff.
This week we’ll be chatting to Assistant Managers Wade and Martin, as well as Wendy, from our fabulous bar and waiting on team. Read on to find out what they get up to in The Lake District on their days off, as well as what they think you should try from the The Trout Hotels decadent selection of food and drinks.
Wade | Assistant Manager
So, what does your day to day as Assistant Manager involve?
I basically do everything! No, I’m joking, but for the 9 months that I’ve been here, every single day has been incredibly varied. One minute I could be checking in guests at reception and the next I could be assisting on the bar, it all just depends on where I’m most needed at the time.
What do you enjoy most about working at The Trout?
100% the team spirit, everyone gets on really really well. We all help each other out and pull our weight equally. You don’t get that in a lot of places and it makes all of our jobs so much easier. I think it’s something the guests definitely pick up on as well- it’s a chilled atmosphere.
If you could recommend one thing that your guests should try what would it be?
Well considering I’m a steak fan it would be rude not to say the 1kg Cumbrian Rib Eye Steak on the new Derwent Restaurant menu. You should definitely check it out!
What do you enjoy most about living in the Lake District and do you have a favourite place?
Helvellyn- been there done that. No seriously, the relaxed environment is awesome, it’s such a contrast to London and other cities that I’ve worked in. I go shooting and flying in my spare time, so the Lake District really is the perfect setting. There’s so much sightseeing to do here, and I’ve got to give a shout out to the sheep! Can’t forget them.
Martin | Assistant Manager
How long have you been working at The Trout?
I’ve been here for 15 years! I started off part-time doing a little bit of bar work and whatever needed doing at the time…15 years later, I’m Assistant Manager of The Terrace Bar & Bistro! Time flies.
Wow, what do you think has kept you here for so long?
Oh, definitely my regulars. I have the opportunity to chat and get to know so many people everyday, but it’s always nice to see familiar faces again. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that they want to visit The Terrace Bar & Bistro again and again- I know I must be doing something right!
If you could recommend your guests one thing to try, what would it be?
The Cocktails! Partly because I love learning how to make them, but they taste seriously good as well. If I can only pick one, it would have to be the Pornstar Martini. It’s a must-try! Cocktails are two for £14 at the moment as well, so you can’t really go wrong.
What do you enjoy most about living in the Lake District?
It’s great for sightseeing- when we get a summer that is. Although, I’m finding it quite hard to trail the kids on any walks at the moment. I’ve got three, aged 9, 7 and 5, who at the moment are much more interested in their Playstation 4 and iPad. It does keep them quiet though! I did try and get them all up Sale Fell not so long ago, but we only managed to get halfway up and that was with one of them on my shoulders!
Wendy | Bar & Waitress
How long have you been working at The Trout?
I’ve only been here since November, so not long at all but I’ve definitely settled in well. On my first shift, two other members of staff called in sick, so I was pretty much thrown straight into it. It’s so team orientated here though- the best place I’ve ever worked by far. Everyone pulls together and helps each other out, so no one’s ever left to fight on their own, which is great.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Oh gosh. Well it depends on what shift I’m working, but generally my day will start by ensuring the bar is all set up, preparing the ice and fruit, then preparing for reservations and afternoon teas. I’ve pretty much got my routine down to a tee.
If you could recommend your guests one thing to try what would it be?
Even though I’ve never had one myself, I’d definitely recommend that you treat yourself to an Afternoon Tea. I’ve tried a couple of the sweet treats from the menu and they are quite literally the dream. Although, I think it’s the leisurely atmosphere that comes with an afternoon tea that makes it even more appealing. There’s something so special about it and no one’s ever in a rush to finish- it’s a real treat that everyone takes their time to enjoy.
What do you enjoy the most about living in the Lake District?
Well, I’ve been an avid motorbiker for 3-4 years now, and The Lakes are an amazing place to explore. I definitely don’t get out walking enough though. I’d go out more but I’m petrified I’d get lost! I love Derwentwater as a nice and easy yet stunning walk and Surprise view is amazing. I like to go up there with the car as well, but I suppose that’s cheating.
A big thank you to our lovely staff, for once again taking the time to help us create this post. If you enjoyed your trip behind the scenes and you’d like to find out more, then why not catch up with Lesley, Keiran and Tracy in Behind the Scenes: Part One.