A new general manager has been appointed at an award-winning hotel.

The 17th century Boys Hall in Ashford – named the best country retreat by National Geographic Traveller (UK) Awards last year – has hired Tim Batchelor to the post.

The hotel was opened last summer after a restoration project at the Grade II-listed building in Willesborough by husband and wife team Kristie and Bradley Lomas.

It already features a 70-cover Michelin Guide-listed restaurant.

Tim Batchelor was previously group bars manager at the acclaimed The Pig Hotels for the past eight years. He will join head chef Charlie Dilworth and spearhead a number of changes planned at the site.

Boasting nine-bedrooms, the hotel has secured two AA rosettes and been named Best Hotel in the South of England by The Good Hotel Guide.

Batchelor’s arrival comes ahead of the opening of a ‘wilderness spa area’ in the manor house, which will include a treatment hut, sauna, hot tub and plunge pool.

Its owners intend to also convert an old stable in its ground into an antiques barn, as well as install nine new ‘bedroom huts’ around the site. They are due to open later this year.

The new general manager said: “I’m thrilled to join such a passionate team and look forward to heading up this exciting new chapter for the hotel.”