Luxury Cotswolds hotel poaches TV chef from world’s best

HYLL has named David Kelman as its new executive chef, bringing an experienced culinary figure to oversee the food offering at the recently opened 17th-century manor house hotel in Charingworth, near Chipping Campden.

Mr Kelman joins the business from Estelle Manor in Oxfordshire, which was recently named as one of the world’s best hotels.

He arrives with more than 20 years of experience working at a range of well-known country house hotels and hospitality venues across the UK.

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David Kelman has been appointed executive chef at HYLL. (Image: Jake Balston)

Originally from North Wales, he has held senior roles at Bodysgallen Hall, Lower Slaughter Manor, Wyck Hill House, Ellenborough Park, Cowley Manor, Thyme and Burford Garden Company.

He is perhaps best known for his time as executive head chef at Ellenborough Park in Cheltenham, where the Beaufort Dining Room achieved three AA Rosettes.

During his tenure, he also won several industry awards, including Best Chef at the Taste of Gloucestershire Awards and Chef of the Year at the Cotswold Life Food & Drink Awards.

A recognised figure within the hospitality sector, Mr Kelman represented Wales on BBC programme Great British Menu in 2014.

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HYLL in the Cotswolds. (Image: Newsquest)

He has cooked for members of the Royal Family, including Queen Elizabeth II and the then Prince of Wales.

He has also competed internationally as part of the Welsh National Culinary Team.

At HYLL, which welcomed its first guests in September 2025, Mr Kelman will lead the hotel’s food operation, creating menus focused on seasonal ingredients and produce sourced from the Cotswolds and neighbouring counties.

His cooking philosophy places a strong emphasis on high-quality ingredients, close partnerships with local suppliers and delivering dining experiences inspired by the surrounding area.

The appointment strengthens HYLL’s leadership team as the hotel continues to build its reputation within the Cotswolds hospitality sector.