Your Gloucestershire and Wiltshire Wedding- April/May 2020 (Issue 20)

I didn’t quite realise how incredible my stay would be at the Castle Hotel Windsor, throughout the trip my partner and I created amazing memories full of happiness, laughter and relaxation. Maybe it was the charming décor, impeccable service or the fact that Windsor Castle is nestled right opposite the hotel – creating the perfect backdrop. When the chance to visit the establishment first arose, I immediately jumped at the opportunity. For a while, it’s been on my bucket list to visit the UK town but something would always come up. But not this time, the stars aligned and next thing I know, my bags are packed and I’m on my way. The hotel was first built in 1528 and was previously known as The Mermaid Inn serving as a bar for the town’s 1,000 residents and is now one of the oldest buildings in the area. After being lovingly restored, the hotel still boasts elegance of its rich and fascinating history left behind. Throughout the hotel, many features highlight the venue’s story such as the Pennington Penny which was an in-house token issued by George Pennington back in 1656. I loved how the authentic essence of the venue has been kept and highlighted with some original features, when you look closely stories start to come alive. PURE INDULGENCE When stepping through the doors for the first time – and thinking how amazing everything looked – friendly staff quickly greeted us and took their time to explain the local area with the best places to see – they couldn’t have been more helpful! With 108 rooms available ranging from suites, superior and the classic rooms, there’s something for everyone. Inside our room we found a 40-inch flat-screen TV, White Company toiletries, minibar and iron. After a long week, I was very excited to try out the queen size bed which was covered with Egyptian cotton. It was so comfortable that I ended up having a nap! Once I had awoken from my slumber, we headed off for a romantic walk around the area and discovered plenty of independent boutiques, clothes shops and cafes – we walked around in comfortable silence just enjoying each others’ company. As we visited in winter, the night drew in early leaving the dark streets beautifully lit. TO DINE FOR We couldn’t fault our dining experience at The Marco Pierre White restaurant located in the hotel and I must say, it’s one of the best meals I’ve ever had – and I’m not exaggerating! The service was faultless and I have told everyone about it. For starter I had Mr White’s Scotch Egg which tasted divine, the egg inside was cooked to perfection. For main I opted for The Governor’s Fried Haddock and Triple Cooked Chips, a simple dish which is my personal favourite and I wasn’t disappointed. After dinner we headed off to the bar where we enjoyed plenty of cocktails, my favourite was the classic daiquiri and spent our time relaxing on the comfortable chairs, it was so lovely to be able to spend time together without any distractions. After having a lovely rest, we started our day with a great breakfast. It was a buffet-style set-up with choices of hot foods or continental. My partner says the blueberry muffin was his favourite, I would have loved to try some but I was so full-up! While eating, guests could watch the changing of the guards right outside the window, it was impressive and there was an excited buzz all around – it was like a movie scene! It was sadly time to leave; we both loved this hotel so much and will be booking our next trip back later this year! Discover more about the venue here: castlehotelwindsor.com EXPLORE WINDSOR Local attractions and nearby entertainment! ❤ Visit the world-famous Windsor Castle ❤ Have a fun day out at Legoland ❤ Book tickets to Edwardian Theatre Royal ❤ Discover Windsor Great Park on a horse and carriage tour ❤ See the Savill Garden – Britain’s finest ornamental gardens HONEYMOON 89 Romantic Olivia Gibson reviews the Castle Hotel Windsor GETAWAY