A New Chapter at Minsteracres: An Interview with Our New Manager, Chris Swift

There is a unique energy that settles over Minsteracres as winter begins to fade. It is a season of quiet preparation, much like the transition we have recently experienced within our own team. We sat down with our new Manager, Chris Swift to discuss his local roots, his background in hospitality, and his vision for the 110-acre estate.

The Journey to Minsteracres

Terry: What first got you into hospitality and led you to this role?

Chris: I’m originally from Consett and live just 15 minutes away with my wife and two children, Joey and Rosie. I spent a total of 23 years at Slaley Hall.

I briefly joined the police in 2020, following in my grandfather’s footsteps, but a back injury made it difficult to continue as a response officer. I actually returned to Slaley Hall afterward as the Guest Experience Manager before seeing the advert for Minsteracres.

The role appealed to me because it combines professional hospitality with a community-focused environment.

Terry: What was the moment you first came here and realised this was your next chapter?

Chris: I’ve known Minsteracres since I was a lad—I used to visit for retreats and attend Mass here, though it isn’t my home parish. As you drive up that magnificent tree-lined entrance and see the house, it’s like stepping iback in time, it has a peaceful energy that’s almost tangible.

Beyond the architecture, what really struck me was the spirit of the people. I’ve worked in large resorts with hundreds of rooms, but I’ve never worked with a team quite like this. There is a genuine kindness here that has continued every day since I started.

Vision for the Estate

Terry: You’re moving from a lively resort to a spiritual community. What is the biggest change?

Chris: It is a smaller team here with more limited resources, so we have to be mindful of what we spend. The biggest change is working with volunteers. They are the backbone of the place; they aren’t here for financial benefit, but because they want to be here, and that hospitality shines through in our guest feedback.

Terry: Which parts of the Minsteracres mission are you keen to grow?

Chris: While the retreats are our core, I want to grow awareness that we are open to everyone, regardless of religion. We are looking at expanding our afternoon teas and potentially hosting events like Sunday lunches or family-themed days. I’d love to see nature trails or treasure hunts for children so the estate becomes a “go-to” place for a walk and a coffee.

A Personal Look at the New Manager

Terry: What are three things integral to keeping your head together in a busy week?

Chris: Chocolate, coffee, and a bit of quiet time. If I can sit down with a cup of coffee and a bar of chocolate or some biscuits—specifically chocolate digestives or Le Petit Ecolier—and watch something on TV, that’s bliss for me.

Terry: What is your “guilty pleasure” on TV?

Chris: My guilty pleasure is Auf Wiedersehen, Pet. I also love Homeland and Frasier—I can watch those over and over.

Terry: If you were stuck on the estate with only one album, what would it be?

Chris: Michael Jackson, Off the Wall. His music is unique and will continue to sound good for years to come.

Terry: If you could invite a celebrity to Dinner, who would it be?

Chris: Jesus would be the most important for many questions, but I’d also include Billy Connolly for the comedy. I’m also a big football fan, so Jose Mourinho would be brilliant, I’d be very interested to learn more about his knowledge and experience of the game.

First Impressions and the Power of Community

Coming to Minsteracres wasn’t just a career move; it was a return to a place that held childhood memories. Yet, seeing the estate through fresh eyes has been a revelation. “The building and grounds are fantastic, but the people are what make this place special,” Chris notes. “The dedication of the volunteers is incredible—people giving their time simply because they want this place to flourish”.

He describes the atmosphere at the centre as a “time machine”—a quirky, peaceful sanctuary that feels worlds away from the frantic pace of modern life.

Looking Forward: A Venue for Everyone

While the 2026 Retreat Programme remains the heart of what we do, Chris is eager to share the beauty of Minsteracres with a wider audience. His vision includes:

Family Traditions: Developing nature trails and treasure hunts for children to enjoy the 110 acres of “nooks and crannies”.
Local Flavour: Expanding our food and beverage offerings, from our famous afternoon teas to Sunday lunches.
An Open Door: Ensuring that everyone—regardless of faith—feels welcome to walk the grounds, see the giant redwoods, and find a moment of peace.
Next time you are walking the drive or attending a retreat, please do stop and say hello to Chris. He is ready to listen, lead, and ensure that Minsteracres remains a “go-to” place for the whole community.

Terence Walsh

With a passion for design and a heart for community, Terence Walsh has spent over 20 years helping businesses in the North East grow their online presence. As the founder of TWDA (twda.co.uk), he is delighted to share his expertise with Minsteracres, contributing to their mission of offering a place of peace and reflection in our busy digital world.