Making room for new visitors at the Talbot Hotel in Malton

Built in the 17th century, the building commands a prominent position at the gateway to the town’s centre.

The hotel has been owned by the Fitzwilliam family since 1730 and was taken back into the management of the Fitzwilliam Estate last year.

Since November it has undergone a £4 million refurbishment and with the work now completed the doors will reopen to the public on Friday.

The new interior features 26 individually decorated bedrooms, including two luxurious suites, created under the guidance of international designer Vivien Greenock.

Each of the guest rooms has been given a distinct personality, including the grand Rockingham Room that houses a four-poster bed and chandelier and the Houghton Suite, which has a separate lounge area with an original 17th century fireplace, dining table and sofa.

The hotel is working in collaboration with celebrity chef James Martin who is keen to celebrate Malton’s growing reputation as a foodie destination and has given a glimpse into his culinary vision by indicating “all his favourite Yorkshire produce will be on the menu, from Wakefield rhubarb to Whitby crab”.

Under his experienced eyes, the restaurant has been completely remodelled and will have 60 covers. There is also be a lounge bar which provides food, and a private dining area seating up to 60.

Tom Naylor-Leyland, who has been spearheading the project on behalf of the estate, said his family had wanted to create a hotel for Malton to be proud of.

“There are so many reasons to visit this part of the country and we very much want to play our part, firstly in attracting people come here and secondly in ensuring that they enjoy their stay to the full,” he said.

“Naturally we’ve tried to make sure that everything has been brought up to the level that you would expect of a modern hotel, while retaining the character of the original historic building.”

Tom added that to put his family’s stamp on the hotel they had strived in all areas to produce a classic and timeless place to stay.

“With Malton’s growing reputation as a food town we're thrilled James Martin has joined the team and will be overseeing every aspect of the food and drink,” he said.

“Having grown up in Malton we believe he is the chef to make the most of the famous local produce.

“Our team has been working hard to try to get everything right, and we hope very much that people will come and see if we’ve been successful and we look forward to welcoming them to the Talbot Hotel.”

The bar at the Talbot Hotel

The Talbot Hotel’s Ryan Eaton-Carr in the Wentworth Room, a private dining room