Crafted by Chris King in UK Announces Key Food and Beverage Appointments for Sussex Opening, Update You Need to know Now

Published on September 11, 2025

Crafted by Chris King in UK, the highly anticipated new lifestyle brand, has announced key food and beverage appointments ahead of its Sussex opening. As the brand prepares to launch its first property at Powermills in Battle later this year, the appointments of Executive Chef Neil Armstrong and Head of Food and Beverage Conor Sheehan highlight the company’s commitment to delivering an exceptional culinary experience. With extensive experience in top hospitality establishments, both Armstrong and Sheehan are set to bring their expertise and creativity to the table, ensuring that Crafted at Powermills exceeds guest expectations. The appointments are just part of the exciting updates surrounding this new venture. Crafted by Chris King is set to redefine luxury in Sussex and these key food and beverage appointments are the first step toward creating a truly remarkable destination.

Leadership Team Brings Experience and Creativity

Ahead of the debut of Crafted at Powermills, the brand has announced the appointment of three key figures to its food and beverage team. These experienced individuals are set to bring their expertise and vision to ensure that the new property delivers on its promise of exceptional service and culinary excellence.

At the helm of the kitchen will be Neil Armstrong, the newly appointed Executive Chef. Armstrong’s wealth of experience in renowned hospitality establishments, such as Edwardian Hotels and Nelson Hotels & Inns, positions him perfectly to lead Crafted’s culinary offerings. His appointment is expected to elevate the dining experience at the new property, with a focus on quality, creativity and seasonal ingredients that align with the natural surroundings.

Joining Armstrong is Conor Sheehan, who will take on the role of Head of Food and Beverage. Sheehan’s extensive background in hospitality, which includes leadership roles at Tillingham Wines, Kettner’s Townhouse and The Gallivant, makes him a strong addition to the team. With a passion for delivering outstanding guest experiences, Sheehan is tasked with ensuring that Crafted’s guests enjoy a unique and memorable journey through every dining and beverage experience.

Chris King, the founder of Crafted, shared his enthusiasm about assembling the leadership team for the new venture. He emphasized the importance of selecting individuals who not only possess exceptional expertise but also align with his commitment to doing things with real care and craft. King expressed his belief that Armstrong and Sheehan’s backgrounds and creative visions perfectly matched the values that Crafted aims to embody.

A Luxurious, Nature-Inspired Retreat

Crafted at Powermills is set to be a stunning retreat, with a design that reflects the natural beauty of the surrounding Sussex countryside. The hotel, which will comprise 55 rooms and suites, is a transformation of the former Powermills hotel and will feature nature-inspired interiors, connecting guests with the land. Situated on a seven-acre private lake, the property offers stunning views of wildflower fields and woodland, providing a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation and escape.

In addition to the elegant rooms and suites, Crafted will offer a range of luxurious facilities designed to cater to every guest’s needs. The venue will feature its very own pub, a restaurant, a cocktail bar and a Craft Barn, as well as an Art Studio and a members club. These spaces have been carefully curated to provide both a sense of community and intimacy for guests, ensuring that everyone who visits Crafted feels truly immersed in the experience.

For those seeking more private accommodations, Crafted will also offer three exclusive cottages on the property. Two cottages—Ash and Oak—will offer three bedrooms each, along with a kitchen diner and living space featuring a stove. The Lake House, a larger option, features five bedrooms, a private garden, an outdoor pool and a deck that extends out to the water, providing an unparalleled experience in secluded luxury.

The Pub: A Sneak Peek of What’s to Come

As part of the brand’s unveiling, Crafted has revealed renderings of The Pub, a standalone venue located adjacent to the main property. This new addition is set to open in November and will serve as a prelude to the complete Crafted experience. The Pub promises to offer a relaxed atmosphere where guests can unwind while enjoying a curated selection of locally inspired food and beverages.

The opening of The Pub is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey for Crafted, with future offerings that will showcase the brand’s commitment to quality and creativity. King’s vision for the brand is rooted in providing an authentic, elevated experience for guests, with every detail carefully considered to create an unforgettable stay.

A Bold New Chapter in Sussex’s Hotel Scene

The debut of Crafted at Powermills marks the beginning of a new era for Sussex’s hospitality landscape. With its focus on nature-inspired design, exceptional food and beverage offerings and a range of luxurious amenities, Crafted promises to set a new standard for modern, lifestyle-focused retreats.

For Chris King, this venture represents a new chapter following the success of Birch hotels, a brand he founded and that garnered significant attention for its innovative approach to hospitality. Although Birch faced financial challenges in late 2023, leading to the closure of both its Cheshunt and Selsdon sites, King’s determination to innovate and redefine the guest experience remains unchanged. Crafted is poised to be a testament to his ability to deliver on his vision, with an emphasis on care, craftsmanship and a true connection to the natural world.

As the winter opening approaches, further details on membership options and additional features of Crafted at Powermills will be released. For now, the anticipation continues to build, as Sussex prepares to welcome one of the most exciting new arrivals in the hospitality world.

Image Credit- staycrafted.com