Gain an insight into life behind the scenes at the Trout Hotel.

In our brand new blog series, we’ll be taking a little time out to sit down and have a chat with some of our much loved members of staff. We hope this will give you a little insight into what goes on behind the scenes at The Trout Hotel and allow you to get to know some of the friendly faces that you’re likely to bump into during your stay.  This week we’ll be chatting to Lesley our Housekeeper, Demi Chef de Partie Keiran and Tracy our lovely Receptionist.

Lesley | Housekeeper

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How long have you been working at The Trout Hotel?

I’ve been working at The Trout as a Housekeeper for around 5 years now, but i still remember my first day very well. It was a bank holiday weekend- how typical?! So, I was thrown right in at the deep end, but thankfully I loved it and I still do now.

What do you enjoy the most about working here?

I love the feeling that I get after I’ve cleaned and prepared a room, knowing that it’s perfect for it’s next visitor. I find it really therapeutic. Crisp sheets, and the smell of fresh linen- it’s lovely knowing that someone is going into a lovely relaxing room to unwind. Incredible job satisfaction.

What do you think makes The Trout Hotel special for your guests?

I’m sure this is what everyone else has said as well, but I really do think it’s the people that make the biggest difference. The friendliness of the staff, and the fact that we all genuinely get on and enjoy our jobs. I think for our guests, it’s really noticeable.

If you could recommend one thing that your guests should try, what would it be?

Oh my gosh, the Steak & Gammon at The Terrace Bar and Bistro, definitely! A firm favourite of mine and my family. We once visited twice in a short of space and time, and we ended up ordering exactly the same as we did on our first visit, because we knew it was going to taste amazing.

What do you like most about living in The Lake District?

To be honest, I think i’m one of those people who haven’t really appreciated it as much as I should. I’ve lived here my whole life, yet I sometimes forget that all of this is right on my doorstep.

Is there anywhere that you particularly enjoy visiting at the moment?

Yes, I really like The Lakes Distillery, it’s gorgeous. It’s in a lovely area to go for a little walk afterwards as well.  I also spend a lot of time in Keswick- it’s a nice place to take my granddaughter, she’s only two.  Pillar Cafe in the main town square is a must visit!

Keiran | Demi Chef de Partie

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How long have you been working at The Trout Hotel?

I will have been working here as part of The Trout Hotel’s team of chef’s for three years in August, after I started as an apprentice when I was 16. It was a great way to kickstart my career, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone else looking to go down the same path.

What does your day to day involve, and what’s your favourite part?

Well, I mainly work with the desserts, pastries and cakes, so my day is mainly based around preparing and baking those. I really like making the afternoon teas – a lot of thought and detail goes into them, so it’s nice to know that someone is going to appreciate my effort. Although I think the best part is probably getting to taste everything, as well as working with the rest of the team. It’s a good laugh.

If you could recommend one dish to try at The Trout, what would it be?

I think it would have to be a dessert, and I’d go for the Sticky Toffee Pudding. It’s a classic and it’s from Cumbria, so you’d be missing out if you didn’t give it a try.

What do you like most about living in The Lake District, and do you have a favourite place?

Yeah, I love travelling around, there’s so much to see and do. It’s a great place to explore. I’m into photography, so I love jumping in my car with my camera and going to find a new spot to take pictures from. My favourites are Surprise View and Honister- I’d really like to have a go at cycling up Honister Pass soon!

Tracy | Receptionist

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How long have you been working at The Trout Hotel and what have you enjoyed most about your time here?

I’ve been working on reception for over thirteen years now! So, yes you could definitely say i’m enjoying it! I really like that everyone who works here is local, and we all get on so well like a family. I think it makes a huge difference for our guests, it’s such a calm and friendly atmosphere.

If you could recommend one thing that your guests should try, what would it be?

The coffee! l love it!

What do like most about living in The Lake District, and do you have a favourite place?

The scenery is just amazing and I love living so near to the coast. My family live in Harrington, so I’d say that’s definitely my favourite place to go. I like to get out and about with my camera and take pictures of coastal scenery. I’ve also recently been spending a lot of time researching my family history and organising a family tree, so going back to my roots definitely helps!