Julian set his sights on Bearslake Inn back in 2018, drawn in by its history, charm and the promise of a perfectly kept pint. He’s our resident ale enthusiast and keeper of all things Bearslake lore, always ready with a story about the inn’s past or a recommendation for a cracking local brew.

Catching Julian can be a bit of an adventure—between his government day job and keeping an eye on the place, he moves like the Dartmoor mist. But when summer arrives, you’ll find him proudly patrolling the garden on his beloved ride-on mower, pint of real ale never far from reach.

A true carnivore with a soft spot for good cheese and a well-earned glass of 10-year-old tawny port, Julian is your man for tales, tipples and local knowledge. If you need him, start by checking the lawn… he’s usually the one making perfect stripes.

Lisa is the steady hand behind the scenes at Bearslake Inn. Having taken the reins in 2018, she now works quietly in the background, keeping everything shipshape while the team bring the magic to the front of house. You might not always spot her on the floor, but she’s always there — planning events, shaping the marketing, keeping the accounts in order and making sure every detail runs smoothly.

Her passion for hospitality shines through in the little touches: the warm, welcoming feel of the rooms, the thoughtful seasonal moments, and the sense of care that guests notice the moment they arrive. Lisa’s calm approach, creativity and dedication help keep Bearslake steady through every busy season and unexpected twist.

And when she does appear, it’s usually with a friendly smile, a helpful hand, or a new idea to make Bearslake that bit more special. Behind the scenes she may be — but she’s very much at the heart of it all.

We’re delighted to welcome our new Head Chef, Tom, to Bearslake. With a passion for hearty, flavour-driven cooking and a real appreciation for quality local produce, he’s already bringing fresh energy and creativity into our kitchen. Tom’s dishes balance comfort with craft, perfectly suited to our cosy Dartmoor setting. When he’s not busy behind the pass, you’ll usually find him out exploring with his dogs or enjoying the occasional bit of cricket. We couldn’t be happier to have him leading our culinary team.

Meet Finley, our rising star in the kitchen, who is just about to complete his Commis Chef apprenticeship. He’s grown with us from a young age and has become an invaluable part of the team, showing real dedication, talent and a genuine love for cooking. A proud Wolverhampton Wanderers fan (a loyalty inherited from his dad), Finley brings the same commitment to the kitchen as he does to his team.

His favourite dish on our menu is the classic Sunday Roast Beef — a choice that speaks to his great taste and appreciation for the Bearslake staples. 

Finley’s progress has been a joy to watch, and with his apprenticeship nearing completion, he’s well on his way to becoming a true Bearslake chef of the future.