Eleanor Henson appointed culinary director at Heckfield Place
Eleanor Henson, head chef of Spring at Somerset House, has been appointed culinary director for both Heckfield Place and Spring.
After nearly nine years with the Spring team, Eleanor will now oversee the culinary direction across the two establishments, ensuring that founder Skye Gyngell’s values, food philosophy and cooking methods remain at the heart of both kitchens.
Guiding two landmark restaurants
Working closely with the teams at Heckfield Place and Spring, Eleanor will lead on menu development, recipe creation and mentoring for both front and back of house. Her appointment formalises her role in carrying forward Skye Gyngell’s ethos of simplicity, seasonality and respect for ingredients.
A passionate champion of sustainable farming, Eleanor will also be responsible for strengthening ties with Fern Verrow and Heckfield Home Farm, which supply both kitchens.
Her work with the Heckfield estate team will continue to position the Hampshire hotel as a leader in regenerative farming and sustainable land stewardship.
A chef
shaped by sustainability
Eleanor said: "This role really reflects everything I believe in – the deep connection between land and plate, the importance of sustainable practices and supporting the next generation in the industry. Working directly with Heckfield Home Farm and continuing our partnership with Fern Verrow allows us to showcase how restaurants can be true stewards of the environment while delivering exceptional dining experiences.”
Career and recognition
A graduate of Ballymaloe Cookery School in 2016, Eleanor joined Spring shortly afterwards and has risen steadily through the ranks. She became head chef in 2022 and has been central to embedding sustainable practices at the restaurant.
Her commitment was furthered by completing the MAD Academy’s Environment & Sustainability course in Copenhagen in 2024, a formative experience that deepened her approach to regenerative food systems. In recognition of her work, she was nominated as Rising Star at the National Restaurant Awards in January 2025.
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Eleanor Henson appointed culinary director at Heckfield Place
