The owners of an award-winning boutique hotel on the edge of the Yorkshire Wolds are now targeting the businesses world as it also launches a new restaurant.
The Highfield, set within eight acres close to the traditional market town of Driffield, was originally a country merchant house but in 2015 it was snapped up by design duo Andy and Lindsey Lampard. The couple met in London while working as interior architects and designers, and eventually set up their own business, and they originally planned to make the 19th Century property their family home.
However, they decided the former merchant house had to be shared with the world, triggering significant investment to transform it into a luxurious boutique hotel. They say they have injected the hotel with their passion for design and heritage, putting their distinctive stamp on the property with their ‘merchant luxury’ ethos, creating a hidden gem set in the picturesque countryside. The pair have decorated the nine rooms with antique furniture as well as artwork from their favourite galleries, as well as items bought during their travels across the globe.
Now the owners say The Highfield is becoming one of the UK’s most distinctive destinations for corporate gatherings, after getting put on the map by scooping Remarkable Hotel of the Year at the Remarkable East Yorkshire Tourism Awards (REYTAs). Last year also saw it win a host of other awards including a Good Food Award and TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice.
Now, as it aims to draw in more corporate visitors, they have also launched a new resident restaurant and bar called The Mill & Vine, run by head chef Mark Langton and restaurant manager Lauren Tranmer, which serves seasonal menus crafted from the property’s own kitchen garden and trusted local growers.
Co-owner and international interior designer, Andy Lampard told how The Highfield is now becoming popular for leadership retreats, planning sessions and company gatherings. He said: “Today’s business and corporate travellers want more than a meeting room. They told us they want an experience that has substance, meaning and a sense of place.
“We have been including a passion for design, all things local and sustainability in all that we’ve done so far. If this gives companies the space to connect, think and recharge in surroundings that inspire creativity and collaboration, we’re honoured to be able to provide a space that marries luxury to care.”
Co-owner Lindsey said they had a sharp focus on inclusivity and wellbeing while revamping the building. She said: “We wanted to create spaces with flexible layouts, wellness break options, and informal conversation zones. Ours is a period property, full to the brim with beautiful details and an authentic ‘Yorkshire Welcome’, but it’s important we make it easy to host events that resonate across multigenerational, hybrid teams.
“And, it goes without saying, we are really proud of our newly opened private Quarters Penthouse. It’s one of our favourite spaces at The Highfield.”
Other features at the hotel – which has a place in the Michelin Guide – include five-star-rated luxury spa treatments and a dedicated terrace, the ancient woodlands, acres of rolling grounds and its kitchen gardens. The Highfield also pays homage to its past with its very own Merchant Stores selling locally sourced art and products.
Want to stay up to date with all the latest event news that’s happening in and around Hull? Well look no further. Sign up to our Never Dull in Hull newsletter and get all the latest news on gigs, food and days out sent straight to your inbox.