Our owners, Chris and Alison Wilson, are proud to lead a passionate team at Balmer Lawn. Sharing the same vision, each department works together to drive motivation and deliver excellence to each and every guest.

A group of staff members standing outside a restaurant, smiling for a group photo. There are 13 women, some wearing black uniforms with name badges, and one woman in a purple top and a patterned scarf. The background features brick walls, a large clock, and outdoor lighting.
Four people standing outdoors in front of a brick building, smiling, wearing black aprons, with one holding a frying pan.
Group of people, including staff and chefs, posing in front of a restaurant called 'Balmer Lawn' with a garden and decorative lampposts.

Our Team

  • A middle-aged man with short gray hair, a goatee, and a broad smile, wearing a floral shirt.

    Chris Wilson

    Partner/Owner Balmer Lawn Hotel

  • Smiling woman with short blonde hair wearing a floral shirt, indoors.

    Alison Wilson

    Partner/Owner Balmer Lawn Hotel

  • A man with short brown hair and a beard posing outdoors in front of trees, wearing a dark blazer, light blue checkered shirt, and a pocket square, with arms crossed.

    Tom Pyke

    General Manager

The Hotel General Management

Balmer Lawn is run day-to-day by our close-knit senior team of Heads of Departments, experienced, approachable, and passionate about what they do. Together, they work hard to make sure every guest feels genuinely looked after. Owners Chris and Alison Wilson remain hands-on and involved, working closely with our General Manager, Tom Pyke, to make sure the hotel stays true to its welcoming, family feel.

Reception Team

Our Reception Team will be delighted to welcome you to Balmer Lawn Hotel. From the moment you make your reservation to the day you check out, they’re here to ensure everything runs smoothly. Our friendly team are always happy to help.

Reception Manager Jordan leads the team with a focus on genuine hospitality and a dedication to excellent customer service, ensuring every guest feels valued and well looked after throughout their stay.

Conference & Banqueting Team

Led by our Conference and Banqueting Manager, Kathryn, this dedicated team works seamlessly behind the scenes to ensure every event runs smoothly from start to finish. Whether you’re planning a wedding, celebration, or corporate event, they’ll be on hand throughout the day to support you. Quietly managing the details so you can focus on enjoying the occasion.

With a calm, organised approach and a genuine passion for hospitality, Kathryn and her team take pride in creating events that are not only well-executed but truly memorable.

Bar & Restaurant Team

Beresfords, our AA Two Rosette restaurant, is led by a passionate and knowledgeable team who take pride in showcasing the best local produce wherever possible. Whether you're joining us for a relaxed lunch or an evening of fine dining, you can expect friendly, attentive service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

For something more informal, you can enjoy our Lounge Menu in both The Lodge and lounge area, perfect for a light bite, afternoon catch-up, or drink by the fire.

Kitchen

Our Head Chef, Ben Brooks, understands that memorable hospitality begins with exceptional food. Working closely with his talented kitchen team, Ben brings creativity and care to every dish, with a strong focus on using the best seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The menu evolves throughout the year, reflecting the flavours of the season and introducing fresh new dishes our guests can look forward to time and again.

Operations Team

Our Operations Team, led by Operations Manager Sam Dando, plays a vital role in making sure everything at Balmer Lawn runs smoothly day to day. Whether it’s supporting our guests or coordinating behind the scenes, this team ensures that every detail is carefully considered.

From dining and housekeeping to events and guest services, they work across all departments to keep things flowing seamlessly. With Sam’s calm leadership and the team’s hands-on approach, our guests can simply relax and enjoy their stay confident that everything is in safe and capable hands.

The New Forest Spa & Wellness Centre

Our New Forest spa is a calming retreat where your wellbeing comes first. Using luxurious products from the renowned ESPA range, our expert team deliver a variety of treatments and therapies designed to relax, restore, and rejuvenate.

Whether you're here for a single treatment or a full day of relaxation, our spa team are here to help you unwind in a way that’s personal, thoughtful, and deeply restorative.

Housekeeping

Our Head Housekeeper, leads a hardworking and dedicated team who take great pride in keeping our rooms and public areas spotless and welcoming. Their attention to detail helps create a comfortable and relaxing environment for every guest.

If there’s anything extra you need during your stay, just let a member of the team know, they’ll be more than happy to help.

Sales Team

Led by our Sales & Marketing Director, Sophie, our experienced Sales Team bring expertise and care to every enquiry.

From intimate family celebrations to milestone events and corporate away days for up to 150 delegates, the team manage every detail seamlessly from first enquiry to final farewell.

With a thoughtful, tailored approach and genuine attention to detail, Sophie and the team are here to bring your event to life with professionalism and a personal touch.

Join Our Team

Dreaming of a career in hospitality? We love welcoming new members to our family - so, if you think you’d enjoy a role within our hotel, please take a look at our vacancies.

Careers