Focus Lunch with James Allison, Middleton Lodge Estates

James Allison is an accomplished entrepreneur and company director with nearly 20 years’ experience in the hospitality industry.

Starting his career at his family firm, Sherburn Minerals, James completed an engineering degree at Oxford University and worked in various sectors including construction, quarrying and mining as well as livestock farming before venturing into the hospitality sector with the redevelopment of his run down family estate, Middleton Lodge.

Through his leadership and vision, James has built Middleton Lodge into a nationally acclaimed hotel, wedding and events business with more than 200 employees and sustainability at its heart.Today, the 200-acre Georgian estate , located in North Yorkshire is home to a 57-bedroom hotel, self-catered cottages, two restaurants, a Spa, two event spaces for private celebrations and weddings, as well as vibrantly restored kitchen gardens and a working farm.

The restoration is ongoing, and owner James ensures sustainability will continue to be the driving force behind current and future estate developments. Rebuilding and conserving the estate has led to the installation of biomass boilers, electric kitchens, car charging units, a biodigester, low food mile menus, and a recycle and reuse ethos which are already up and running. Future plans include the addition of solar panels for heating and electric, additional planting beds to supply the kitchens, and hydroponics. 

Join us at our first ever focus 'lunch' and estate tour, where James will take us on a journey into the development of Middleton Lodge. Be inspired whilst learning how he steered his business from start up to industry leader, his plans for the future and where he intends to take it over the next 20 years. 

The small print - This event is exclusively for entrepreneurial members of the Forum and costs £50+VAT for a three-course lunch, drink on arrival and estate tour, payable in advance.

By registering to attend this dinner you agree that your place is non-transferrable. We are unable to reimburse this cost if cancellations are received after 12noon on Monday 27th November.