The Final Round: The Man, The Myth, The Hi-Vis

After more than a decade at the helm of one of Warwick’s most historic venues, Peter Round is hanging up his suit, and his hi-vis jacket, as he retires from his role as House Manager at Alderson House, Warwick.

Peter’s journey to Alderson House began in August 2012, following a distinguished 34-year career in the butchery trade. Bringing with him the technical expertise gained during his training at the Birmingham College of Food and Domestic Arts, Peter arrived with a vision to transform the High Street landmark.

A long-standing member of the Masonic community, Peter joined the Lodge of Unity in April 2000. This deep-rooted connection to the craft fueled his passion for the building. Under his stewardship, Alderson House underwent a remarkable evolution, transitioning from what many described as a “tired old Masonic building” into a smart, thriving, and premier function venue.

One of Peter’s most significant achievements was the thoughtful expansion of Alderson House’s operations. While weddings and events had taken place there before, it was under his stewardship that they grew in number and became a far more prominent and reliable source of income. His ability to showcase the building’s elegant architecture and create a welcoming environment helped attract more couples and private events, generating vital funds that were reinvested directly into the fabric of the house to safeguard it for future generations.

Similarly, although Alderson House had previously charged for car parking, Peter was instrumental in putting the system on a more formal and professional footing. Through his influence, the car park became a well‑managed asset with increased uptake from local residents and businesses, increasing another steady and sustainable income stream for the house.

The garden at Alderson House stands as one of Peter and his late wife Liz’s most beautiful legacies. Together, they transformed the outdoor space into a vibrant, carefully curated extension of the building itself, a project they shared until her passing. It is an area that not only complements the house’s historic character but also offers members and guests another welcoming, usable setting for events and quiet enjoyment. Their eye for detail brought the garden to life in a way that captured the admiration of the wider community, earning the Warwick in Bloom Commercial Garden of the Year Gold Award on three occasions.

Visitors to Alderson House under Peter’s watch grew accustomed to two things: a venue that was always smartly presented and the faint, reassuring scent of fresh paint. His commitment to maintaining the highest standards did not go unnoticed. Today, Alderson House is a bustling hub for Freemasonry, serving as the home for 14 Lodges, four Chapters, and a wide array of companion orders.

Beyond the aesthetics and the balance sheets, Peter’s tenure was defined by his commitment to service. Alongside a small, dedicated team he built and nurtured, Peter has overseen the delivery of over half a million meals. Whether he was ensuring a formal festive board ran like clockwork or donning a hi-vis jacket to personally direct traffic in the car park, Peter’s “extra mile” philosophy was the heartbeat of the house.

His enthusiasm, desire to help, and unwavering professionalism have left an indelible mark on both the building and the masonic community that meets within its walls.

As Peter steps into the next chapter of his life, retirement in name, but with an exciting new career as a master of ceremonies ahead, he does so hand‑in‑hand with Marie, as they look forward to their wedding later this year. The members, staff, and guests of Alderson House thank him for his years of tireless service. We wish him a long, happy, and fulfilling future as he brings his warmth, presence, and professionalism to this new venture and this new chapter in his life.

He leaves behind a legacy as solid as the stonework he so lovingly maintained.