Exciting Changes at Stanwell House as General Manager Lance Bartlett Heads Home to South Africa
In a heartfelt transition, Lance Bartlett, the esteemed general manager of Stanwell House in Lymington, and his wife, Lisa, are set to return to their South African roots after 16 impactful years at the hotel. This move is bittersweet for Lance, who expresses immense pride in transforming Stanwell House into one of the region’s leading boutique lodgings, complemented by the success of their nearby ventures, including the Snakecatcher pub and Albero restaurant.
With the Bartletts’ departure, the hotel welcomes Josie Clare as the new managing force, set to take the helm later this month. Josie’s extensive background in hospitality, including her leadership role at the Avington Park estate in Winchester, positions her well to continue the legacy of excellence established by the Bartletts. “I’m truly excited about the opportunity at Stanwell House,” Clare shares. “My commitment is to provide exceptional service and create unique experiences for all our guests, further enhancing the charm of the New Forest.”
The change in management has been met with warm praise from the owners, Maryanne and Calum Maclean, who credit Lance and Lisa for their integral role in the hotel’s success and the positive impact they’ve had on the local business landscape. “We’ll certainly miss them, but we wish them all the best in their new adventure,” they remarked, underscoring the supportive atmosphere that has characterized the hotel.
Lymington, known for its vibrant yachting scene and picturesque Georgian architecture, continues to attract visitors from all over, including notable figures like author Leslie Thomas, Vicar of Dibley star Emma Chambers, and Olympic sailing champion Sir Ben Ainslie. The town’s appeal is enhanced by its proximity to the stunning New Forest, a cherished destination for nature lovers and travelers alike.
Stanwell House recently celebrated a multi-million-pound refurbishment, reopening its doors to guests at the end of 2022. During that milestone, Lance remarked on the collective effort that went into the project, specifically thanking the supportive Lymington community. As the baton passes to Josie Clare, both the local community and new guests eagerly anticipate what lies ahead for this beloved establishment.
As the Bartletts embark on their new journey back to South Africa, they carry with them a wealth of fond memories and accomplishments, leaving Stanwell House poised for a bright future under Clare’s leadership.
Tags: #SouthAfrica #UK #Tourism #Lifestyle #Hospitality
As we follow the evolving narratives of establishments like Stanwell House, it’s a reminder of how vibrant community ties and dedicated leadership can create lasting legacies. The hospitality landscape is ever-changing, and there’s always something exciting on the horizon!