Getting out of London and disappearing to the countryside for a weekend is always an appealing prospect, but our recent weekender at Billesley Manor was one of our favourites yet.
Perfectly positioned near enough to Stratford-Upon-Avon to spend a day mooching around Shakespeare’s birthplace, this ? Manor House has nailed the cosy country weekend vibe. We were instantly taken when upon arrival we were welcomed with open arms - almost literally - by the beautifully bubbly receptionist, and spent a good ten minutes chatting about her recent publishing success as a new author. With a rack of wellies by the front door, a bowl of dog treats alongside, and a fire roaring in the grate of the entrance hall, you could instantly tell you’ll be right at home.
Making the way through the hotel to our room, we passed welcoming snuggly velvet sofas, walls lined with books, beautiful artworks and a rather well stocked bar - duly noted for the requisite post-prandial cocktail…
From cosy double rooms to Manor House suites with four poster bedcs and roll top baths there's something for all, combining 16th century charm with moder luxury. Our room was noted as our jolly receptionist’s favourite; with views over the hotel grounds and its bubbling central fountain it’s giving real Pride & Prejudice vibes. With William Morris style prints, velvet bolster cushions and cosy headboards this is room built with comfort and style in mind. Take a turn around the grounds ahead of dinner; it’s a lovely setting and, while not extensive, they’re certainly pleasant for a sunset stroll.
Food is served in the Manor’s elegant wood panelled dining room and brings you a menu of British dishes with fresh, local produce and interesting twists. A starter of scorched pumpkin with radish, truffle emulsion and butternut purée was a favourite, as was the crispy pig’s head with poached pear and walnut emulsion, while the chicken supreme with truffle mash was a deliciously hearty affair. Portions aren’t huge so there’s plenty of room for an indulgent slice of cheesecake for pudding.
While it’s fully possible to whisk away your evening in the aforementioned bar, we retired early ahead a wholesome morning session on the on site spa. With treatment rooms, a pool, sauna and steam room, it’s worth making time for. With a 30 minute back, neck and shoulder massage in the diary, I was prepared for it to be short and sweet, yet it was hands down one of the best massages I’ve had in a long time. After a hearty cooked breakfast it was sadly time to hit the road, yea despite being on site for a mere 16 hours we left refreshed, revived and already planning a return.
Billesley Manor is delicious home away from home that makes for the perfect night away from the busy bustle of London. Get yourself booked in for a spring weekend sharpish.
