Gareth Ward restaurant Gwen set for ‘next chapter’ after Corrin Harrison exit

Chef Corrin Harrison is leaving Gwen in Machynlleth, with Gareth Ward’s intimate restaurant now set for what has been described as a “next chapter” rather than a full closure.

Gwen launched in 2023 as a sister venue to Ynyshir, with Corrin leading the kitchen at the eight-seat restaurant in Machynlleth after rising through the ranks under Gareth in one of the UK’s most acclaimed fine dining environments.

Corrin joined Ynyshir in 2017 and became head chef after four years, later going on to lead Gwen with a style built on precision, bold flavour and a modern take on British cooking.

Gwen topped the Harden’s guide as the best restaurant in Wales in 2025 and 2026, while Ynyshir became the first restaurant in Wales to hold both two Michelin stars and five AA rosettes, underlining the level of restaurant Gareth has built.

Corrin Harrison statement on leaving Gwen

Taking to social media, Corrin shared: “The time has come for me and the team at Gwen to move on to something new.

“The past three years at Gwen have been amazing. Having full creative freedom over the food, drinks and overall vibe of the restaurant is something I will always be grateful to Gareth and Amelia for.

“The chance to close the doors on our own terms is something rare in this industry, and something we are incredibly proud to be able to do.

“It feels like the right moment to end this chapter on a high and look ahead to what comes next.

“They say it takes a community to raise a child, and the same goes for a restaurant, and what a community Machynlleth is!

“Thank you to everyone who has supported us along the way.”

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Gwen set for new phase after Corrin exit

Despite reports suggesting this means the end for the restaurant, Gwen’s own Instagram bio now states: “Something new coming summer 2026… Watch this space,” suggesting the site itself will continue in a different form.

And Powys County Times have corroborated that approach, confirming Gwen is not closing, but instead preparing for a new phase following Corrin’s departure.

A restaurant statement reported by the newspaper read: “So as you’ve all heard, Corrin and the team are moving on to their next challenges.

“We just want to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you and well done for everything you’ve achieved at Gwen. We can’t wait to see what you all do in the future.

“Gwen is not closing but ready for its next chapter. If you’re looking for a space to do something incredible or are looking to take it over, get in touch.”

Corrin Harrison’s Great British Menu 2026 run

The timing is notable for Corrin personally too.

He is currently enjoying another strong run on Great British Menu 2026, winning the strong regional Wales heat against John Chantarasak, Carl Cleghorn and Dan Andrée to move through to finals week, in with a strong chance of cooking at the banquet.

Corrin returns to our screens in the week commencing April 20, following the conclusion of the regional heats.