We’re seeking a dynamic and creative café operator for a unique opportunity to run our brand-new on-site café, which will open Spring 2026.
This is a rare chance to operate in a setting that blends heritage, beauty, and a thriving visitor base.
If you are an experienced and passionate operator who brings creativity, flair, and operational excellence to their work, this could be the opportunity for you!
The Café
The café, housed in the mansion’s former dining room, will be an elegant and welcoming space, acting as a focus for visitors before and after their museum experience together with becoming a hub for both local residents and park users. With indoor seating for approximately 40 and a spacious outdoor terrace for around 30, the café will cater to a wide audience – from coffee-and-cake visitors to families enjoying light lunches. The offer should reflect the museum’s values – quality, local provenance, and sustainability – while providing an inviting and memorable experience.
The Opportunity
We are seeking an experienced and passionate operator to bring creativity, flair, and operational excellence. Within the confines of the lease term (strictly no cooking on site and limited space for cold food preparation), you will have the freedom to design an appealing menu, incorporating seasonal and locally sourced produce, and host special food events. The catering operator will have off-site production kitchens to support the café. The café will also service some museum functions and collaborate on themed menus for exhibitions and seasonal activities.
Contract Term & Financials
· Initial contract term: 5 years, with optional 2-year extension.
· Commercial terms to be agreed based on turnover and performance.
· Operator responsible for revenue generation, marketing, staffing, procurement, and maintenance of equipment (fixed installations provided by the museum).
What We’re Looking For
· Proven expertise in successfully running a café or similar hospitality venue.
· Strong brand and customer service ethos.
· Commitment to sustainability, local sourcing, and waste reduction.
· Ability to deliver consistent quality and innovate seasonally.
· Willingness to collaborate with the museum team on events and promotions.
Timeline
· Expressions of Interest deadline: 19th September 2025
· Request for Proposal (RFP) issued: week ending 26th September 2025
· Deadline for Receipt of Proposals: 14th November 2025
· Contract Awarded: December 2025 / January 2026
· Café Opening: Spring 2026
Download Full Details Here
Or email catering@trentparkhouse.org.uk for further information.
Expressions of Interest deadline: Friday 19th September 2025