Follow in the footsteps of many famous guests at this well-known hotel, a Relais & Chateaux member and part of Iconic Luxury Hotels set within 376 acres of manicured National Trust grounds overlooking the River Thames. It’s the perfect pick for a pre-wedding pamper in The Cliveden Spa; an opulent wedding celebration and a first-night stay as a newly married couple. DO NOT DISTURB This historic hotel boasts romantic bedrooms and suites, some with hot tubs, decorated in a traditional style with antique pieces and original artwork combined with plush furnishings. My home-fromhome for the night was one of the extremely spacious Mansion House Deluxe Suites called Buckingham, one of the best offerings for newlyweds. Perched on the first floor of the main mansion featuring far-flung views stretching across the picturesque grounds, it features a fireplace, a designer bathroom with a freestanding bathtub plus complimentary access to the Butler’s Pantry offering a variety of refreshments – perfect for a midnight snack! Honeymooners at the hotel will also love the stylish rooms nestled in the garden wing, which have hot tubs on the terraces and views over the pretty spa garden. There’s also Spring Cottage perched next to the riverbank, a secluded retreat with three bedrooms and a private garden, perfect for a family-moon. A FOODIE HEAVEN At the heart of this enchanting hotel is the glamorous Cliveden Dining Room with its sparkling chandeliers and far-reaching views across the grounds where diners can enjoy a delicious breakfast, quintessential afternoon tea, dinner and Sunday lunch which is popular. The menu features mouth-watering dishes created using the freshest local ingredients including plant-based choices. For dinner, I tucked into the winter truffle risotto to start followed by the poached bass. Other highlights on the dinner menu include the dry-aged beef fillet. Breakfast here isn’t to be missed – the American pancakes with maple syrup and caramelised banana are a must-try! The award-winning, equestrian-themed Astor Grill is another restaurant option that forms part of the old stables. American and British dishes include the Astor Burger served with Monterey Jack cheese and the Cliveden fish and chips served with curry sauce. Enjoy a pre-dinner signature cocktail or a post-dinner tipple in the distinguished wood-panelled Library Bar or the Great Hall - the Cliveden 66 cocktail toasts the year this grand old house was built. RELAX AND REJUVENATE The wellness journey starts as you enter The Cliveden Spa, a relaxing retreat open to resident guests and members. This exclusive space boasts an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, relaxation area and the Spa Kitchen serving healthy dishes and smoothies. There’s also the famous ‘Profumo’ outdoor pool flanked by loungers, cute pink-and-white striped deck chairs and hot tubs overlooking the clock tower that inspired Disney’s 2015 movie Cinderella. It looks so romantic as dusk falls that spa-goers are invited to experience the Cliveden Dusk Delight package for a peaceful evening indulging in a treatment and use of the luxurious facilities. This health-focused spa offers an extensive treatment menu using products by The Cliveden Body Collection designed by Oskia. I enjoyed a 60-minute warm oil full-body massage with experienced therapist Tania that was tailored to suit my needs and performed on a heated water bed – it was one of the most comfortable massages I’ve ever had, pure bliss! MADE FOR ROMANCE Cliveden offers a grand fairytaleinspired setting for weddings. Expert wedding planner Lydia Kenny is a fantastic asset for any couple, experienced at hosting everything from small, intimate affairs to lavish exclusive-use celebrations for the party of a lifetime! Every wedding is tailor-made to suit each couple with non-exclusive use packages hosting up to 60 guests. Outdoor ceremonies can enjoy the beautiful backdrop of the Cockerel Pavilion with the stunning French Dining Room providing an indoor option. The wedding breakfast can also be enjoyed here with the Cellar Dining Room, the Tote Room and the Boudoir Room being other wonderful options. Wedding guests can enjoy a boat trip along the River Thames during the summer months, woodland walks (the hotel is dog friendly), foraging in the grounds and clay pigeon shooting. Book it: Rooms start from £445 per night including breakfast. www.clivedenhouse.co.uk www.instagram.com/clivedenhouse www.facebook.com/ClivedenHouse Thank you for a wonderful stay! Suite dreams Editor Claire Ridley received a very warm welcome at Cliveden, a charming and luxurious country house hotel and spa in Taplow, Berkshire VENUES 89
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