Cross, 32, joins the team from the Danish restaurant that was voted the best in the world in 2010, 2011 and 2012.

Formally a professional forager Cross used his skills to establish himself in some of the best kitchens in the world including the La Pergola in Rome and Per Se in New York under the guidance of the most successful chef in the US, Thomas Keller. Both restaurants have three Michelin stars and were voted in the top 11 in the world in the 2013 Elite Traveler Top 100 Restaurants.

Cross’ culinary expertise isn’t just limited to the kitchen, appearing on both the BBC’s Masterchef and Great Food Live television shows.

According to general manager, Alasdair Elwick: “This is a real coup for the The Samling. It demonstrates our commitment to recruiting the best staff in hospitality industry and once again strengthens a kitchen team, the food from which is gaining admirers by the day.”

“Over the coming weeks and months I fully expect more staff of James’ calibre and experience to join the hotel.”

Cross said the decision to join was easy: “The Samling is on one of the most exciting journeys of any hotel and restaurant in the UK right now so it wasn’t a difficult decision to make. I hope my experience both in the kitchen and my career as a forager can help the hotel go on and achieve great things.”

The Samling kitchen is headed up by Ian Swainson, former head chef at two Michelin Star restaurants. Ian helped the hotel win the accolade of “Best Boutique Dining Hotel in the World” in 2012.