Jeff Hodgson, General Manager of Lumley Castle, gives us a peek behind the curtain of his role at the hotel.
Running a 637-year-old castle is not your typical hospitality role – but then again, Lumley Castle is far from a typical hotel. Perched proudly over the County Durham landscape, it attracts guests from around the world seeking history, character, and unforgettable experiences. At the heart of this iconic property is the General Manager Jeff Hodgson whose role blends heritage stewardship with modern innovation.
A historic milestone
Lumley Castle began its chapter as a hotel in the early part of 1976. As it approaches its 50th anniversary, preparations are already underway for a year of celebrations: “We’re excited to mark our 50th year with our team and guests alike,” explains Jeff. “Expect special promotions, unique events, and opportunities for people to celebrate this milestone with us. It’s a chance to honour the castle’s legacy while looking ahead to the future.”
Starting the day with heritage in mind
Each morning begins with a simple ritual: a coffee at the desk: “It sets the tone for the day,” Jeff remarks. From there, the day starts in earnest: checking in with the night team, reviewing the previous day’s guest satisfaction scores, and looking over the financials: “These checks give me a clear picture before meeting with the team; consistency and alignment are everything in a business where no two days are the same.”
Planned precision meets medieval mayhem
Despite careful planning, Lumley Castle has a way of keeping everyone on their toes. Jeff estimates that about half of his day follows a schedule, while the other half is spent responding to the unexpected. A repair on a centuries-old staircase, a last-minute event request, or simply lending support during peak periods – flexibility is essential.
Leading a venue like Lumley requires patience, communication, and the ability to adapt quickly: “Our strength lies in our team. They’re passionate, well-trained, and dedicated. When they feel supported, the guest experience thrives.”
Honouring the past while meeting modern expectations
Balancing heritage with contemporary needs is one of Jeff’s most important responsibilities. Refurbishments are approached with care, enhancing comfort while preserving the castle’s character. For corporate clients, modern AV capabilities and connectivity are integrated discreetly into historic spaces: “People want the magic of the castle – but they also need the tools to run effective meetings or events. Our role is to deliver both seamlessly.”
Crafting bespoke experiences
Collaboration lies at the heart of Lumley Castle’s vibrant events programme. From corporate retreats to the much-loved Elizabethan banquets and murder mystery dinners, Jeff and team work closely with planners to bring visions to life: “The castle’s dramatic spaces offer something special. We guide planners on using them to their full potential, offering flexibility in menus, décor, and entertainment.”
The grounds are also a standout feature – perfect for senior management getaways, offering privacy, inspiration, and a break from the boardroom. However, working with a historic building does present occasional challenges: “Planners love bespoke ideas, and sometimes we need to adjust those ideas to suit the castle’s structure. But with creativity and teamwork, we nearly always find a solution.”
High-pressure countdown
The most intense moments of Jeff’s day occur just before events begin. Final checks, AV tests, catering coordination, and ensuring the arrival experience is flawless all converge in a tight timeline: “Once the event is underway, it’s about smooth service and being available for anything guests or planners need.”
Despite the challenges, Jeff says the rewards are immense: “Seeing guests experience the castle – especially for the first time – is something special, their excitement is contagious. And working with such a dedicated team makes every day fulfilling.”
Looking forward
As the castle nears its 50th anniversary as a hotel, Jeff is focused not just on celebrating its past but preparing it for the next 50 years. The hospitality industry is changing rapidly, and Lumley Castle is embracing that evolution: “We’re a seasonal business with constantly shifting demands. Staying ahead is always a challenge, but embracing innovation is key. AI and emerging technologies are already transforming hospitality. If we don’t adapt, we risk being left behind.”
The vision for the future is clear: combining heritage with modern thinking, expanding the events offering, enhancing guest experiences, and keeping Lumley Castle at the forefront of the region’s hospitality scene: “We’re guardians of the past – but we’re also builders of the future.”