The general manager of Rydal Hall – the Diocese of Carlisle’s Christian retreat and conference centre – is to step down having secured a new position.

Nigel Evans will leave Rydal Hall this month after two years developing the Lake District site and helping to further shape its mission and business strategy. He has been appointed centre manager of The Franciscan Centre Ladywell in Godalming, Surrey.

Nigel said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Rydal Hall. The setting is one of the most beautiful I have worked in and I am proud of the way in which my team and I have worked hard to strengthen its mission within Cumbria’s hospitality sector.

“I look forward to the new opportunities and challenges ahead as I move to Ladywell and I send my best wishes to all the team at Rydal Hall and those in the wider Diocese who have supported me during my time here.”

Nigel joined the Rydal Hall team in March 2023, bringing more than 25 years’ experience working in the hospitality sector, including a couple of years working for the TV chef Keith Floyd. Prior to moving to Cumbria, he worked at Buckfast Abbey in Devon for nine years.

Whilst at Rydal Hall, Nigel has overseen the running of the 30-bedroom hall – which can hold up to 54 guests – as well a bunkhouse, holiday cottages, a campsite and tearoom within its 30 acres.

He added: “This is a very diverse site and so it has been very interesting to manage the various component parts. We cater for all kinds of people – those who come here to feed their faith, those who come to enjoy the scenery, those who come to camp – so it’s been important to be adaptable to the needs of the different guests.

“I think the hall is wonderful place in which people can come to reflect and pray and to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. I’ve spoken to countless people who have valued their time walking in the grounds and woods.”

The Rydal Hall board will now look to appoint a successor to Nigel. In the interim, hospitality consultants Hotel Advantage are to oversee management of the site.

The Ven Ruth Newton, chair of the Rydal Hall board, said: “We want to thank Nigel for the high level of commitment he has shown throughout his time at Rydal and for the care and consideration he has shown to every guest and visitor.

“We also recognise the importance Nigel has placed on further building the Christian mission of Rydal Hall so that all people – those of faith or none – can draw on its beautiful surroundings for personal reflection and prayer. Nigel will leave with our prayers and best wishes for the future as he prepares for his new job.”

ENDS

For further information contact Dave Roberts, Diocesan Head of Communications, on 07469 153658 or at communications@carlislediocese.org.uk.