The Box Tree, Ilkley’s iconic fine-dining destination, announces significant changes to its leadership team. Tom Wardle joins as the new Restaurant Manager.
The Box Tree welcomes Tom Wardle as the new Restaurant Manager. Originally from the Midlands, Tom brings a wealth of experience and a passion for fine dining to his role. His career began with a management trainee programme at Hambleton Hall, renowned for holding the UK’s longest-retained Michelin star.

Tom refined his skills as Assistant Restaurant Manager before being promoted to Restaurant Manager at the acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurant, The Man Behind the Curtain, and the innovative Psycho Sandbar. Over his seven years there, he gained exceptional expertise in delivering outstanding dining experiences and fostering team excellence.
At The Box Tree, Tom looks forward to getting to know valued guests, leading the front-of-house team with professionalism and warmth, and collaborating closely with Brayden Davies and Chris Stapleton to uphold and enhance the restaurant’s exceptional service standards.
This appointment highlights The Box Tree’s commitment to nurturing talent and continuing its tradition of excellence. With Chris Stapleton leading as General Manager and Tom Wardle’s arrival, the leadership team strengthens its ability to elevate the restaurant’s legacy as a premier destination for fine dining in Yorkshire.
Key Team:


Head Chef: Brayden Davies (left). General Manager: Chris Stapleton (right).


Sous Chef: Nick Dixon (left). Head Sommelier: Didier Da Costa (right)
The Box Tree:


Set in one of Ilkley’s oldest and most characterful buildings, The Box Tree has been a beacon of fine dining since 1962. Originally a 1720 Yorkshire stone farmhouse, the building housed gentleman farmers and later became both an antique shop and tearoom. The late 19th century saw the planting of its iconic box trees, lending the property its name. In 1962, Malcolm Reid and Colin Long transformed the house into a restaurant, which rapidly became one of the North’s most acclaimed dining establishments, it was awarded two Michelin stars in 1977 and consistently appearing in the country’s top food guides. Legendary chefs such as Michael Truelove, Edward Denny and Marco Pierre White have all left their mark on its storied kitchens.



Today, the restaurant remains a cherished institution, combining its rich history with modern innovation. The latest chapter in its legacy is led by Head Chef, Brayden Davies, who took over at the beginning of 2024 and brings a fresh, contemporary vision to The Box Tree.



Originally from Australia, Brayden has honed his skills at several Michelin-starred establishments, including The Raby Hunt, Northcote Manor, The Angel at Hetton and most recently at Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall.
Brayden’s culinary approach blends his Australian roots with a commitment to local, foraged ingredients, reflecting Yorkshire’s exceptional produce. He describes his cooking as refined yet modern, with subtle nods to his heritage.
The Box Tree Restaurant, 35-37 Church Street, Ilkley, West Yorkshire, LS29 9DR, [email protected]
Images supplied