Theo Clench steps in on interim basis as George Blogg leaves Gravetye Manor

Theo Clench, formerly executive chef at Akoko and Cycene, has stepped in on an interim basis to replace the outgoing George Blogg at Michelin-starred Gravetye Manor.

George announced last year he would be leaving his role at the Sussex country house hotel at the end of 2024.

It comes more than a decade after he arrived, regaining Gravetye’s Michelin star in 2015, retaining it ever since, and also earning four AA rosettes.

During his time in Sussex, George was also awarded Hotel Chef of the Year and Master of Culinary Arts in 2022.

A statement from Gravetye Manor read: “After over a decade at the helm of the kitchen, George has been instrumental in reaffirming Gravetye as one of the premium culinary establishments not just in Sussex but in the UK.

“He will also be remembered for forging a relationship between the garden and kitchen teams which took the use of our homegrown produce to a whole new level.

“Both as a chef and a mentor, George is respected and admired by both his team and the wider chef community.

“He has provided unforgettable dining experiences for countless guests and his vision and passion for his craft have been integral to Gravetye’s overall success in recent years.

“On behalf of all the team at the hotel, George - thank you for everything and we wish you all the best!

“In the interim, we are very fortunate to have the Michelin-starred chef Theo Clench holding the fort and we can't wait to reveal what the next stage in Gravetye’s culinary journey looks like really soon…”

Theo left his role at Cycene in August 2024 and was replaced by Taz Sarhane, and is now set to work on a consultancy basis at Gravetye for the next few months.

On his departure, George took to Instagram, writing: “It’s time to say farewell to all my wonderful colleagues, friends and guests Gravetye Manor. The last 11 years have been nothing short of incredible.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported me, worked with me and dined with us. Gravetye is a very special place, and I am so proud to have been a part of its journey.”