Meet Our General Manager: James Bell
With a fresh refurbishment, a newly defined dining destination, and 20 acres of peaceful South Oxfordshire countryside to explore, there’s a real buzz around Milton Hill House. At the heart of it is our new General Manager, James Bell. We sat down with James to hear his story, his vision for the hotel, and what guests and locals can look forward to next.
From Chef Whites to the Front Desk
James’ hospitality journey began in the kitchen. “I watched Jamie Oliver’s school dinners programme and decided I wanted to be the next Jamie Oliver,” he laughs. He studied catering, worked in professional kitchens and loved the craft – then discovered his true calling out front.
“I adored being in the operation with guests and teams. I’ve been lucky to work across almost every department – kitchen, restaurant, reception, housekeeping, even nights. That rounded view really helps in a GM role.”
Mentors have mattered along the way. James credits supportive leaders across major hotel brands and former colleagues – “people make people” – and says that belief in potential is something he’s determined to pay forward with his own team.
Why Milton Hill House? “It’s Dripping with Opportunity.”
Walk the drive, step into the Manor House and you’ll feel it: character, calm and possibility. “The building and the grounds are genuinely special,” says James. “You’ve got old-world charm from the historic Manor alongside modern amenities – pool, steam room, sauna and jacuzzi – and a wonderfully motivated team. The potential is everywhere.”
The setting adds to the magic. Tucked in 20 acres of countryside and just off the A34, Milton Hill House is well connected (close to Didcot Parkway for London trains, with the M4 to the south and M40 to the north) yet remarkably quiet. “Best of both worlds,” James says.
Respecting Heritage, Elevating the Experience
Recent refurbishments have refreshed key spaces without losing the Manor’s character. James’ highlights:
- The Library – “We’ve kept the panelling and fireplaces but given the room a new lease of life. It’s serene, perfect for weddings, quiet coffees or a thinking space between sessions.”
- The Bar – “Now fabulous – warm, social and a natural gathering point.”
- Mortimer’s – “Our reimagined restaurant with its own identity. We’re positioning it as a dining destination in its own right – versatile, beautifully designed, and very much one to watch.”
Meetings, Events & Weddings: Built for Variety
Milton Hill House shines when it comes to flexibility. With 20 meeting rooms, integrated AV and acres of outdoor space for team building, the site can host everything from intimate leadership retreats to large-scale activities – often simultaneously and seamlessly.
“It’s our secret weapon,” says James. “The estate can be many things to many people – a beautiful wedding setting, a focused conference hub, or an expansive playground for team days – without guests tripping over each other.”
His tip for organisers? Use the whole estate. “Don’t just stick to the meeting room. Stroll the grounds for a wellness break, take coffee in the Library, build breathing space into the agenda. People think better when they’ve had time to decompress.”
Food, Menus & A Big Milton Hill Christmas
New seasonal menus have landed and Christmas is firmly on the radar. Expect private parties, joiner nights, and festive dining in Mortimer’s for everything from tables for two to family gatherings. “Christmas will be huge here,” James says. “We’re ready.”
Team Culture: Fun, Engaged, Hungry to Succeed
Ask James what he wants his team to say about working with him and he doesn’t hesitate: “Fun and engaging.”
“If the team are happy and genuinely enjoy coming to work, guests feel it instantly. We’ve got a young, ambitious group here – future leaders who want recognition and results. My job is to create an environment where they can grow.”
On talent, James is passionate about apprenticeships and training. “I wouldn’t be here without people investing in me. It’s my responsibility to pay that forward.”
Community Matters
Milton Hill House is open to neighbours as well as guests. Recent outdoor cinema days brought locals together on the lawn, complete with popcorn and family-friendly vibes. More is planned – from tree-planting to making the grounds a welcoming place to walk the dog and stop for coffee.
“We’re not a closed conference centre – we’re a community space,” James says.
The Milton Hill Feeling
What three feelings should guests leave with?
- Relaxed – “It’s a naturally calming environment—even for busy conferences.”
- Surprised – “There’s always a hidden corner to discover—a thatched cottage here, a cosy nook there.”
- Positive – “Our people make the place. Genuine warmth stays with you.”
Looking Ahead
Success for James over the next year means progress in every sense: growing guest satisfaction, team confidence, results and reputation. “We’ve had the investment and the refurbishment. We’ve got the right managers and a brilliant team. It feels like Milton’s moment—our time to take the baton and run.”
Thinking of a visit?
Book a table at Mortimer’s, plan a wellness-friendly meeting with time to roam the grounds, or speak to our team about weddings and festive celebrations. We’d love to welcome you to Milton Hill House.
.
Go back to other articles
