‘It is a privilege to be part of an estate with so much history and heritage’: Swinton Estate in Ripon appoints new general manager
Swinton Estate in Ripon has appointed a new general manager – bringing extensive experience in hospitality leadership to the estate’s growing leisure operations.
The appointment of Ramune Aleks comes during a milestone year, as 2026 marks 25 years since Swinton Park Hotel opened its doors, a celebration of the estate’s rich heritage and ongoing commitment to exceptional hospitality.
In her role, Ramune will work as part of the Executive Leadership Team and oversee all aspects of the Swinton Estate’s leisure offerings, including Swinton Park Hotel, which features the fine-dining Chef’s Table by Josh Barnes, the classic British Samuel’s Restaurant, and the more relaxed format of The Terrace Restaurant & Bar.
She will also manage Swinton Country Club, home to spa, fitness, and wellness experiences, alongside Swinton Bivouac, the estate’s glamping site with tree lodges, meadow yurts and cafe.
Swinton Estate’s holiday cottages will also fall under Ramune’s remit.
Ramune said: “I am excited to be joining the Swinton Estate as General Manager.
"It is a privilege to be part of an estate with so much history and heritage and with such a diverse offering for our guests.
"From the historic castle itself to our glamping site at Swinton Bivouac, The Swinton Country Club & Spa, our range of dining experiences, and of course, 20,000 acres of the wider estate and everything it has to offer.
"I am very much looking forward to meeting our guests and bringing my own flair to this remarkable place.”
Ramune brings over a decade of senior management experience in the hospitality sector.
Most recently, she served as Director of Food and Beverage at The Grand in York for two and a half years.
Her previous roles include General Manager at Woodlands Leeds, General Manager at Cedar Court Hotels in Yorkshire, and Deputy General Manager at Oulton Hall.
Ramune added: “Having worked across a range of hospitality venues in the North of England during my career so far, it feels especially rewarding to lead an estate so rooted in Yorkshire.
"As someone who loves the great outdoors, this historic estate feels like a natural fit.
"This is a particularly exciting time to be joining the Swinton Estate team as 2026 is a milestone year as we celebrate 25 years since Swinton Park Hotel welcomed its very first guests.”