Michael Caines

Michael Caines MBE, chef owner of Lympstone Manor, is known as one of Britain’s most celebrated and acclaimed Michelin-starred chefs. Having grown up in the South West of England, Michael has earned a global reputation for his distinctive modern cuisine.

After attending Exeter College Michael’s talent was evident and this was followed by three years at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons with Raymond Blanc. He then furthered his experience travelling to France to study under Bernard Loiseau and Joël Robuchon. In 1994 Michael returned to the UK to take up the position of head chef at Gidleigh Park. Shortly afterwards, Michael achieved two Michelin stars at Gidleigh Park. Both of which he retained for 18 years and earned within just four.

After 21 years at Gidleigh Park, Michael struck out on his own, opening Lympstone Manor – the luxury Grade II Georgian mansion sits on the banks of the Exe Estuary in East Devon, and is Michael Caines’ flagship hotel. It achieved its first Michelin star within six months of opening and continues to hold 5 AA Rosettes, which have been retained for four years since 2020.

As Chairman of the South West Chef of the Year, Michael is deeply committed to championing local talent and the regional culinary scene, exemplified by his establishment of the Michael Caines Academy at Exeter College.