Restaurant 15 minutes from Darlington wins Michelin star

Middleton Lodge Estate’s fine dining restaurant, Forge, was recognised at the Michelin Guide Ceremony for Great Britain & Ireland 2025.

The event, which took place on Monday, February 10, in Glasgow, celebrates the finest restaurants across the UK and Ireland.

This award highlights the excellence of the dining experience at Forge and follows head chef Jake Jones receiving the Michelin Young Chef of the Year Award, and the estate the Michelin Green Star at last year’s ceremony.

(Image: Rebecca Hope) Head chef Jake works closely with the estate’s gardening team to create innovative menus that showcase seasonal produce grown on-site, ensuring a sustainable approach to fine dining.

His passion for cooking began at an early age and was influenced by his father, who was also a chef.

(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT) Gaining experience at some of the North’s most renowned farm-to-table restaurants, Jones joined Middleton Lodge in 2021 and spent two years working in the estate kitchens to gain an understanding of the estate’s gardens and the strong ‘estate-to-plate’ philosophy, before launching Forge in 2023.

Jake said: “Being awarded a Michelin Star really is a dream come true.

“We have an amazing team at Middleton Lodge and this award means so much to all of us.

“Our guests’ experience is our priority, and I love what I do.

“It is a privilege to build a community of guests who share our passion for food.

“The estate is a constant source of inspiration, and we are always looking to add to and perfect each course of our tasting experience.”

Estate owner, James Allison, added: “This is a fantastic achievement for both Jake and the estate.

“I am incredibly proud of the team and cannot thank them enough for their hard work and dedication, which have made this award possible.

“When I began restoring Middleton Lodge over 20 years ago I wanted to create a sustainable country estate.

“My vision was to build a place where people could feel at home, gather, and celebrate with great food and service.

“This award means so much to all of us.”

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(Image: Rebecca Hope) Forge is open from Thursday to Sunday for evening reservations only.

Diners can choose from a six or ten-course tasting menu, with optional wine pairings.

Vegan and vegetarian options are also available.

Dining experiences start from £65 per person and hotel bedrooms on the estate start from £245 per night.