London Golf Club has moved to strengthen and evolve its hospitality offering with the appointment of two industry-leading talents.
The prestigious Kent club celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, having built a reputation in that time as one of the UK’s most welcoming clubs, mixing world-class golf with a friendly atmosphere and superb food.
The food and hospitality offering at the golf club has now been taken to a new level with the appointments of Ralph Jones and Beth McGuane.
Ralph Jones has been named as executive chef at the club after working at several Michelin star restaurants in his 20 years within the culinary industry. Jones will be responsible for leading the kitchen team and the venue’s food and drink offering.
Having previously held senior roles under chefs including Marco Pierre White, Garry Hollihead and Éric Chavot, Jones is well qualified to help London Golf Club significantly elevate its catering offering, including through the development of a new menu.
Jones, who has also worked in several two and three AA Rosette restaurants, said: “London Golf Club is an incredible place with a great history. The chance to come in with a fresh set of eyes, use my creativity and the freedom offered to me to put my own mark on the culinary offering was an exciting opportunity. We’ve worked hard on creating a new menu for the Spike Bar and have plenty more exciting plans in the pipeline.”
Meanwhile, Beth McGuane has taken on the role of director of hospitality at London Golf Club, bringing a wealth of experience and a real passion for hospitality with her.
Most recently working as head of hospitality for Rhubarb Hospitality – a London-based company that specialises in luxury event catering and iconic restaurant dining – McGuane has over a decade’s experience within the industry, which included employment at restaurants Balthazar, in Covent Garden, and Swan at The Globe.
McGuane said: “I’m delighted to be on board with London Golf Club and to be bringing my passion for hospitality here. Alongside the team, I’m hopeful we can deliver unforgettable experiences for members and guests.”
The double appointment comes with the club highlighting its position among the UK’s premier golf venues by striking gold at the prestigious annual 59club Golf Customer Service Excellence Awards.
It was a double success for London Golf Club’s team, with Simon Hilliard winning the Golf Retail Manager of the Year award for the relevant price category, while the prestigious club was one of just 19 from across the UK and Ireland to be named as a Gold Flag Members Club for 2024.
Stephen Follett, London Golf Club’s chief executive, said: “Here at London Golf Club we put a real emphasis on providing the best possible experience for members and visitors, from the moment they are first greeted at the top of the drive, to the minute they leave.
“I believe strongly that the appointments of both Ralph and Beth will help us continue to elevate this experience even further and would like to welcome them both to London Golf Club.”