Two leaders in Penrith’s hospitality sector are celebrating 25 years at the helm of one of the town’s most renowned venues.
Graham and Carren Carruthers took over the Roundthorn Country House on November 18, 1996 and have since developed the business hugely to encompass accommodation, conference facilities and high quality dining.
The pair said: “It’s been an amazing 25 years and we’re very proud to have become such a big part of the local community.
“The support we’ve had from the people of Penrith over the years, and particularly over the last 18 months, has been immense. We wouldn’t have been able to do it without such a loyal and supportive team.”
From a small team of two full time members of staff and a smattering of casual workers the business now employs more than 50 people in full time, part time and casual roles.
Graham manages the hotel and Carren runs a training and consultancy business which has hospitality clients across the globe. In Graham’s role he has been master of ceremonies for thousands of weddings over the years.
Initially Graham even planned weddings, developing the events team which now includes two dedicated wedding co-ordinators.
Priding themselves on a reputation for supporting other aspects of the local economy, Graham and Carren source ingredients from Eden suppliers such as Cranstons, Pioneer Foods, Tirril Brewery and the Toffee Shop.
This support for other sectors flourished in the early days of the business when the couple expanded into conferences. Having to foster healthy relationships with other companies. This was when the Roundthorn was able to open year-round.
Through this arm of the business the accommodation offer has expanded significantly and now includes 10 individually styled bedrooms in the house and five luxury self catering apartments.
These apartments were built by local tradesman Shaun Marston and designed by Kate Longworth three years ago and demand for them, particularly this year, has been tremendous.
Graham and Carren added: “Like everyone in the hospitality industry, the last two years have been a challenge and the business had to adapt when COVID meant that weddings and events were restricted and cancelled.
“The team discovered the demand for Sunday lunches and midweek dining and used the opportunity to develop this side of the business.”
This loyal team are at the heart of operations with people in management roles having staying for more than 15 years on average.
The longest serving, Yvonne Allison, has worked there since 1984 with her children even gaining their first taste of employment at the Roundthorn.
Graham and Carren’s children also caught the hospitality bug with their son James working in the industry in London and their daughter Hannah studying her A-levels.
They added that they see lots of regular local faces, be it for family events, dinner dances or simply for Sunday lunches or afternoon teas.
