TV chef James Martin hosts supercar rally at Chewton Glen Hotel in New Milton

CELEBRITY chef James Martin spent the afternoon at Chewton Glen Hotel in New Milton on Sunday as part of a classic and supercar rally.

Featuring Bentleys, Ferraris, Maseratis and Porsches, the multi-million pound display of prestige cars were displayed on the hotel’s picturesque croquet lawn as the popular chef chatted with fans and fellow motoring enthusiasts.

Mr Martin, who was host of Saturday Kitchen for a decade, was also celebrating his 52nd birthday. He told the A&T a visit to the luxury hotel was the perfect way to unwind, adding: “I was very happy to be here on my birthday as long as no one was asking me to cook!”

A special James Martin rally afternoon tea was served to guests, with tickets selling out soon after the event was announced. Visitors savoured a selection of locally inspired sandwiches, scones and sweet pastries accompanied by a glass of sparkling English wine.

Participants in the rally spent the night at Chewton Glen before departing to its sister hotel, The Lygon Arms, in the Coltswolds.

James has a close affinity with the luxury New Milton hotel, where he runs regular classes at the hugely popular cookery school, The Kitchen, located within Chewton Glen’s grounds.

Prior to his TV fame, James was also a junior pastry chef at Chewton Glen before going on to the role of head chef at the original Hotel and Bistro du Vin in Winchester, just before his 22nd birthday.

Set in 130 acres of countryside and a short stroll from Highcliffe Beach, Chewton Glen was named Rural Hotel of the Year in the 2023 Food and Travel Readers Awards.

The family-friendly property is also home to an expansive kitchen garden, a world-class spa and unique luxurious accommodation in its iconic treehouses.

The hotel is open to the public for dining, with afternoon tea served daily. To find out more visit www.chewtonglen.com