ENJOY A GASTRONOMIC RIVERSIDE BREAK AT RELAIS HENLEY, OXFORDSHIRE Escape to this boutique riverside hotel in the charming town of Henley-on-Thames for an indulgent night or two. This historic hotel, a member of PoB Hotels, was originally built in the 16th century with the iconic Henley Bridge on its doorstep. The exterior blends seamlessly into the picturesque scenery and it’s now home to 40 beautifully appointed rooms where guests can wake up to stunning views of the River Thames. The interior cleverly blends its historic past with modern comforts and contemporary furnishings creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The rooms and communal spaces have been individually designed with curated amenities and a fresh look taking inspiration from its heritage. A cosy ambience and convivial atmosphere have been created by blending a rowing club spirit with botanicals from the English countryside. Its prime location in a serene and sophisticated setting is perfect for exploring the local town and nearby countryside. The hotel’s central location is ideal for seeing Henley-on-Thames which exudes a sense of understated luxury with its boutique shops and quintessential English vibe. It is conveniently located just a short five-minute walk from Henley train station and close to the stunning nearby Chiltern countryside. Diners will love the hotel’s hidden gastronomic gem, Restaurant Dominic Chapman where they can indulge in seasonal, farm-to-table dishes. Chapman previously worked with Heston Blumenthal at the Fat Duck and The Hind’s Head before becoming head chef at The Royal Oak earning the restaurant a Michelin star. Within the hotel, visitors will find the Henley Deli for fun and informative workshops such as barista and coffee roasting classes. Guests can take to the Chilterns for hiking and walks or enjoy horse riding and clay pigeon shooting, or try wine tasting at a local vineyard. The Thames offers many exciting activities including an Olympic rowing experience and a relaxing boat ride along the river. The Relais Henley revels in creating bespoke wedding packages and provides two licensed spaces for ceremonies: The Salon (an internal area comprising of both Palm Court and Petit Palm) and The Courtyard. The Salon works brilliantly for smaller, more intimate ceremonies of up to 60 guests while The Courtyard works exceptionally well for larger gatherings of up to 100 people. There are several places within the property where wedding receptions can be held including The Salon. Elegant and inspiring, this part of the property, originally a 19th-century town coffee house boasts high ceilings and river views, giant mirrors and a mosaic of Persian rugs. For larger wedding receptions, a marquee can be erected in the external courtyard area within the grounds of the property which, depending on the layout and style, has a capacity for up to 100 guests. Highlights of weddings at Relais Henley include: •Guests and couples can choose from a selection of room categories including the Heritage ones which features original antiques, four-poster beds and a room once occupied by King Charles I in 1632. His painted Royal Coat of Arms is preserved over the fireplace in the room. •Riverside rooms that allow guests to wake up to stunning views of the River Thames. There’s also the stylish Courtyard rooms that are perfect for those wanting to travel with their canine companions or needing accessible accommodation. •A complimentary bridal suite. •Preferred rates for guests. •The Relais Henley can organise for arrival to the property by boat. https://therelaishenley.com What’s new? BEARWOOD LAKES GOLF CLUB, WOKINGHAM, BERKSHIRE The Clubhouse at Bearwood Lakes oozes sophistication and charm, decorated in chic neutral colours that set the stage for any wedding colour theme, with a statement chandelier that adds a touch of sparkle. Natural daylight floods into the room and when the sun goes down, the carpet is rolled back to reveal the dancefloor. Bearwood Lakes sits within 200 acres of countryside, on land once part of the crown estate. The venue offers wonderful lakeside photo opportunities for the happy couple beside a new waterfall and bridge proving a popular spot. The restaurant boasts a private balcony area overlooking the course which provides an alternative big-day backdrop. On arrival at the Clubhouse, guests enter through the gates and are met by a rhododendron-lined driveway. In the immediate vicinity is a picturesque pond filled with koi, and the immaculately presented golf course, all in view from the balcony. Ceremonies take place in the Lounge area of the Clubhouse for up to 70 people, or on the balcony (weather dependent) for smaller groups. Receptions are held in the restaurant, home to a private balcony and lounge within the Clubhouse which can accommodate up to 110 guests seated for dinner, or up to 150 people for a buffet-style menu. The talented team at Bearwood Lakes encourage each couple to visit the venue in the lead-up to their big day to experience a complimentary menu tasting experience. www.bearwoodlakes.co.uk Images courtesy of Bearwood Lakes Golf Club and www.jmc-photography.com 18
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=