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Cotswolds boutique hotel HYLL has appointed David Kelman as Executive Chef, bringing one of the region’s most respected culinary talents to lead the food offering at the new 17th century manor house hotel.

Kelman joins HYLL following his role at Estelle Manor in Oxfordshire and brings more than two decades of experience across some of the UK’s most acclaimed country house hotels and hospitality destinations.

Originally from North Wales, Kelman has built an impressive career spanning Bodysgallen Hall, Lower Slaughter Manor, Wyck Hill House, Ellenborough Park, Cowley Manor, Thyme and Burford Garden Company.

He is particularly recognised for his tenure as Executive Head Chef at Ellenborough Park in Cheltenham, where he led the Beaufort Dining Room to three AA Rosettes and received numerous accolades, including Best Chef at the Taste of Gloucestershire Awards and Chef of the Year at the Cotswold Life Food & Drink Awards.

A familiar face within the industry, Kelman represented Wales on BBC’s Great British Menu in 2014 and has cooked for members of the Royal Family, including Queen Elizabeth II and the then Prince of Wales. He has also represented Wales internationally as a member of the Welsh National Culinary Team.

At HYLL, which opened in September 2025, Kelman will oversee the hotel’s culinary direction, developing menus that celebrate the seasons and the exceptional produce of the Cotswolds and surrounding counties. His approach centres on ingredient-led cooking, strong relationships with local suppliers and creating memorable dining experiences that reflect a genuine sense of place.