Subject to errors, omission, and changes without notice.
Manor House Choices - England (Peg's Picks - B)
B19. HORSTED PLACE
HOTEL
Little Horsted, UCKFIELD, East Sussex
TN22 5TS
Tel: 01825 750581
Fax: 01825 750459
Manager: Elizabeth Brown
Email: hotel@horstedplace.co.uk
From their Website: At Horsted Place,
we care about the little things, which is why all of our suites and bedrooms
are individually decorated for luxury and comfort and all are finished by hand
with flowering plants, fluffy white towels, soft cushions and Egyptian Cotton
bed sheets. All double rooms and suites
have flat screen HD televisions with the full range of Freeview and Sky Sports
channels.
Whether facing the gardens, the country estate or the South Downs, each room has great views and all the suites
have a separate seating area from which to enjoy them. We offer 24 hour room
service should you fancy a cup of tea first thing in the morning, dinner in
your private lounge area or a breakfast in bed!
From the studious leather finished “Edinburgh” suite to the relaxing soft tones
of the “Nevill”, each room is designed to make you feel like a guest of the
house, and not in a hotel at all.
Please note that we cannot accommodate children under the age
of seven but children over the age of seven are welcome.
Nevill Suite – Peaceful luxury with view across the estate or
gardens
Windsor
Suite - A luxurious suite, fit for a
queen
Superior Suite - Private sitting rooms complete with luxurious interiors for comfort and style
Junior Suite – Individually decorated and hand finished with
flowering plants
Double Room - Cozy rooms
with all of the luxury of our suites.
Golf & Leisure - Overlooking the greens of the superb East
Sussex National, Horsted Place
is perfectly positioned for the keen golfer and beginner alike. Preferential
rates are offered to guests for both the East and West Course, with the Golf Academy
offering expert tuition for all abilities. If Golf isn’t your game then why not
indulge yourself at the luxurious Horsted Health Club, situated within the
grounds of the East Sussex, and just a
5-minute drive from the hotel. A taxi service can be arranged in advance.
Should you fancy a match, the Tennis Court is complimentary for all our
guests (Pimms on the terrace to follow should you over exert yourself!) and of
course that quintessential English country house pastime - croquet on the lawn.
If you had something even more relaxing in mind, why not take a stroll through
our lovingly tended gardens with the pheasants, squirrels and rabbits (loved by
the guests, not by the gardener!) or retire to our Drawing Room which, warm and
cosy with a roaring log fire in the winter and cool and quiet in the summer, is
just the place to curl up with a good book.
Horsted Place
lends itself perfectly as a base for exploring the many historic houses and
beautiful gardens in the area, including Batemans; the enchanting former home
of Rudyard Kipling, Pashley Manor Gardens
and Sheffield Park, famous for its stunning autumn
colour display. Horsted Place
has views across the South Downs
Way and is close to Charleston Farmhouse, home to
the famous Charleston Festival.
History of Horsted
Horsted Place
is one of the finest examples of Gothic revivalist architecture to be found in Britain today.
Built by George Myers in 1850 for Francis Barchard, much of the detail was
designed by Augustus Pugin, widely regarded as England’s most influential early
Victorian Architect.
In 1965 the house was sold to Lord and Lady Rupert Nevill who
undertook a complete refurbishment of the property and commissioned the leading
20th Century landscape architect, Sir Geoffrey Jellicoe, to redesign the
grounds and gardens. Various mature trees and shrubs were moved from the
Nevills' previous residence, Uckfield House, including a myrtle tree grown from
a sprig taken from Queen Victoria’s
wedding bouquet.
As a long standing friend of the Duke of Edinburgh, Lord
Rupert Nevill regularly entertained HM the Queen and HRH Prince Philip at Horsted Place.
Today, guests can re-trace her Majesty's footsteps by
following the Queen’s Walk – an enchanting path through the grounds to Little
Horsted’s Norman church where the royal couple worshipped whilst staying with
the Nevills.
How to find Us: With frequent air and rail connections from Heathrow and Gatwick Airports,
Dover, Newhaven and Portsmouth Ports,
the proximity of the M25 and M23 Motorways, Horsted Place Hotel is perfectly
placed for national and international travellers.
By Road: Horsted Place Hotel is located on the A26, 2 miles south
of Uckfield.
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B20. ALEXANDER HOUSE
Turners Hill, EAST GRINSTEAD, West Sussex, England, RH10
4QD
Tel: +44 (0) 1342 714 914; Fax: +44 (0) 1342 717328
General Manager, Ian Heath
From their Website: Set in the heart of 120 acres of breathtaking gardens,
woodland and parkland, Alexander House Hotel is ideal for those in search of a
gorgeous 5 star Sussex
hotel, superb dining or sumptuous spa break.
Wonderfully located hotel near East Grinstead, quietly yet
conveniently for Gatwick and perfect as a boutique country manor house hotel
destination near London, Alexander House Hotel has been glamorously
refurbished.
Rooms & Suites at Alexander House Hotel Sussex
Ranging from contemporary chic to traditionally stylish, each
of our 38 luxurious bedrooms and suites has been individually designed with
painstaking attention to detail helping you to enjoy a very comfortable stay.
As such every room will contain unique features that set it
aside from another such as claw foot Victorian baths, double wash basins,
antique furniture, hand painted wallpaper, four poster beds or opulent deep
oversized baths.
However all contain high quality 21st century expectations
including proper size complimentary Temple Spa toiletries, fluffy white robes
and slippers, direct dial telephone, room safe, CD & DVD Players and
refreshment facilities.
All rates include free WIFI and temporary membership to Utopia
Spa.
Brasserie and fine dining restaurants
A choice of mouth watering menus & restaurants all headed
by Executive Chef Mark Budd. Take a very special seat in AGs our more formal restaurant or
for those after a buzzing brasserie style feel Reflections is the tasty choice.
Alternatively there are plenty of places both inside or alfresco to enjoy a
quick snack, glass of champagne or afternoon tea.
All our restaurant and dining options feature tasty timeless,
traditional classics alongside modern additions with imaginative cooking
techniques and the kitchen is passionate about sourcing the highest quality
local, Sussex ‘born’ produce.
Utopia Spa at Alexander House Hotel In Sussex
The ultimate spa break destination
Our award winning Sussex spa makes a tranquil yet rejuvenating
destination, whether you are popping in for a spa treatment, enjoying a spa day
or have planned a 5 star overnight spa escape.
Calming and holistic interiors, pools, bubble tubs, sauna and
steam areas, prepare mind and body before deeply relaxing, sensory spa
treatments – the perfect balance.
Enjoy our quiet spa garden, surrounded by fresh Sussex country
air or make use of our well equipped gym and fitness studio should you feel
more active…. we even have a hairdressing salon to complete your
transformation.
Our soul purpose is to make stresses and strains disappear!
The History of Alexander House Hotel
The property's earlier history can be traced back to Roman times. A Roman
road ran past the present western boundary and Roman coins have recently been
found in the area.
The oldest part of the house itself dates back to the 17th Century. A
stone dated 1608 can be found in the boundary wall.
Towards the end of the last century the property belonged to the Oxley
family who had connections in the city of London.
Further additions to the house were made by William Campbell, Governor of
the Bank of England who purchased the estate in 1909.
In 1984 the mansion was purchased by International Hotels Limited and was
meticulously restored and re-named Alexander House.
In 2002 Utopia Leisure purchased Alexander House and an 18-month
redecoration process transformed Alexander House to the elegant, stylish,
luxury hotel it is today.
In 2006, Alexander House Hotel proudly opened its flagship Utopia Spa,
cementing the hotel's reputation as one of England's finest destination spas in
the UK.
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B21. AMBERLEY CASTLE
AMBERLEY NR ARUNDEL, West Sussex, BN18 9LT, UK
T: 01798 831992 F: 01798 831998
http://www.amberleycastle.co.uk/
Welcome to Amberley Castle, a unique luxury hotel located in
the picturesque village of Amberley at the foot of the South Downs.
From their Website: Privately owned by Andrew and Christina Brownsword, this
magnificent 900 year old castle is enclosed by a 60 foot curtain wall and
working portcullis behind which you will discover an enchanting hotel offering
the highest standards of food and service. Bedrooms are resplendent with the
luxurious facilities you would expect from a country house hotel.
History encompasses every part of this wonderful building and
the many acres of gardens it stands in. Enjoy discovering our magical tree
house, tennis courts, 18 hole putting green and croquet lawn. For those seeking
tranquility and relaxation, there are many quiet corners to discover under the
shade of a tree or by the fireside.
Rooms
All 19 bedrooms at Amberley Castle are luxuriously appointed.
Every room and Bishropics, each named after a Sussex castle, is unique in
design and all feature en-suite whirlpool bathrooms. Naturally all come with
crisp white linen, plumped up pillows and super-comfy beds to guarantee that
perfect night's slumber. Interior design reflects the history of the castle and
rooms are furnished with antiques and fine fabrics.
The rooms are split into four categories ranging from Classic
to Deluxe Four Poster.
-Classic: Main Manor House - Rye Tower House Mews - Bramber
and Knepp
-Superior: Main Manor House - Hastings Tower House Mews -
Bodiam, Camber and Crowhurst
-Junior Deluxe: Bishopric Suites (situated in the dry moat
outside the castle walls) - Luffa, Wilfrid, Sherborne, Reede, Seffrid
-Tower House Mews (situated within the castle walls) -
Winchelsea with a central 85 gallon whirlpool, Pevensey, features a 6ft four
poster bed
-Deluxe Four Poster: Main Manor House situated within the
castle, Chichester, Arundel, Amberley, Tower House Mews, Lewes and Herstmonceux
Amenities
Fruit wine, a gift from Chef and bottled water greet you in
your room, while fluffy robes are just waiting to be slipped into.
The ensuite bathrooms are spacious, every room features a
whirlpool bath, with skin care and bath lotions from luxury brands to make that
soak in the bath a little more special
Located
less than 60 miles south west of London and only 22 miles from Brighton,
Amberley Castle is the centre piece for one of the prettiest villages in the
South Downs. On the south and west sides of Amberley the River Arun
runs, it is known for the atmospheric mists which hang over it in the winter
months. On the east side of the village is the scarp slope of the Downs rising
up to Amberley Mound and a steep climb up to the South Downs Way.
The nearby village of Arundel offers more opportunity to explore. The
architecture here combines Georgian and Victorian buildings that have left a
legacy of stunning buildings which make up this pretty little town, packed
today with eclectic shops and quaint tea rooms.
Brighton is less than 45 minutes drive away, well known for its blustery
sea front, vibrant culture and independent shops; this is definitely the livelier
destination in comparison to nearby Worthing which offers a more genteel take
on the traditional seaside town.
Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, restful break, conference
venue or a special place for your wedding reception, this quintessentially
English luxury hotel will not disappoint.
Amberley Castle History
1100: Henry I
1091-1123: Bishop Ralph Luffa
1103: Luffa builds hunting lodge at Amberley
1124-1147: Bishop Seffrid I
1135: Stephen
1140: Seffrid I builds first stone hall at Amberley
1180-1204: Bishop Seffrid II
1199: John
c1200: Seffrid II builds Amberley’s east wing
1272: Edward I
1305-1337: Bishop John of Langton builds Great Hall at
Amberley Castle
1377: Richard II
1370-1385: Bishop Reede builds new Great Hall; makes major
domestic improvements
1377: Reede given permission to crenellate Amberley
1413: Henry V
1415: Earliest reference to a prison at Amberley Castle
1485: Henry VII
1508-1536: Bishop Sherborne embellishes Amberley Castle;
employs Lambert Bernard as court painter
1509: Henry VIII
c1525: Lambert Bernard paints Amberley Panels
1526: Henry VIII visits Bishop Sherbourne
1536-40: Dissolution of the monasteries
1538: Church leases Amberley to tenant for first time
1558: Elizabeth I
1588: Amberley Castle leased to the Crown
1624: Charles I
1648: James Butler buys Amberley from commissioners of
sequestered estates
1660: Charles II
1660: Estate reverts to Bishopric
1661: Butlers acquires lease
1683: Sir John Briscoe acquires lease: hunting scene painted
in Queen’s room
1760: George III
1737: Engraving of the castle by Samuel and Nathaniel Buck
1788: Grimm drawings of the castle
1837: Victoria
1893: Duke of Norfolk purchases Amberley Castle, ending
ecclesiastical ownership
1901: Edward VII
1908: Duke of Norfolk makes repairs to Amberley
1910: George V
1920: Walter Peckham visits Amberley and draws ground plan
1925: Thomas and Evelyn Emmet purchase Amberley Castle
1936: George VI
1945: Princess Elizabeth visits the castle
1952: Elizabeth II
1982: Hollis Baker purchases
1987: Peter Kirsch purchases
1988: Joy and Martin Cummings purchase the Castle
2007: Amberley Castle becomes part of the von Essen collection
2011: Amberley Castle is purchased by Brownsword Hotels, the
next stage in its’ history begins.
_______________________________________
B22. THE BISHOPSTROW
HOTEL AND SPA
WARMINSTER, Wiltshire BA12 9HH
T 01985 878 352; F 01985 216 769
E info@bishopstrow.co.uk
From their Website: Welcome to The Bishopstrow Hotel & Spa. Without doubt one of the finest, luxury hotels in Wiltshire. Located within easy reach of Bath and Salisbury (off the A36), only 6 miles from the famed Longleat Safari and Adventure Park.
Set in 27 acres of established grounds boasting kitchen gardens, orchard
and trout fishing from the banks of the River Wylye running along the hotel,
deep in the heart of the beautiful Wiltshire countryside. Ideal for adults and
children alike.
Built in 1817, the Bishopstrow hotel in Warminster retains all of its
unique period features and charm, sympathetically combining many contemporary
features running through the bedrooms, restaurant and spa, making it the ideal
venue to suit all tastes.
Our award winning Mulberry restaurant, overlooking the sun terrace,
conservatory and lawns provides a modern, light and spacious dining experience
with a variety of menus to suit individual tastes.
Retreat into our boutique spa and relax with one of our many Elemis
treatments or simply enjoy the thermal experiences, indoor or outdoor heated
pools, fitness suite and tennis courts.
Having recently completed the refurbishment of all our bedrooms we have
successfully combined both classic and contemporary designs to meet the high
expectations of our all guests and are sure you will be delighted with
the results.
All 32 bedrooms at The Bishopstrow Hotel have all been recently
refurbished to an exceptionally high standard ranging from the opulence of the
Master bedroom to the more contemporary design of the courtyard and garden
bedrooms many boasting exterior patios. A taste to suit all combining the
natural character, charm and period features of the manor house with a
contemporary fusion.
The Bishopstrow Hotel is the ideal location for a family break or
alternatively a peaceful and relaxing time away with your partner in the beautiful
Wiltshire countryside.
-Each of the Classic Rooms have their own distinct personality and they
are mainly located in the main house although some classic rooms can be found
on the ground floor of the Courtyard. Classic Rooms have double beds, en-suite facilities,
wet rooms and are equipped with TV s and DVD players. Maximum occupancy 2.
-Each of the Club Rooms have their own distinct personality and are
located on the upper floors of the Georgian Main House and on the ground floor
of the Courtyard.. Club Rooms have double beds that can be twinned on request,
en-suite facilities and are equipped with TVs and DVD players.
-Each of the Superior Rooms have their own distinct personality and are
located on the upper floors of the Georgian Main House and the first floor of
the courtyard. Superior Rooms have
double beds that can be twinned on request, en-suite facilities and are
equipped with TVs and DVD players. There
are two specifically designed rooms that can accommodate families.
-Deluxe Rooms are the largest rooms of the house, some of these rooms
offer a separate sitting area and others have their own outdoor access offering
both space and comfort. Large king size VI Spring beds enhance the comfort and
luxury of the décor, which boasts individuality and sophistication whilst
retaining the charm expected of a country house hotel.
-The Master Room - The Oval room, originally the master bedroom of the
house is situated on the first floor of the main house. This opulent room has
large bowed windows with two freestanding roll-top baths to maximise the
stunning views overlooking the hotel grounds at the entrance of the house.
-Suites - We have three luxury suites available all of which are located
in the courtyard; The Weymouth Suite and The Shaftesbury Suite both comprise of
a separate downstairs sitting room, while upstairs is located the spacious
bedroom with direct access into the gardens and the en-suite bathroom with
free-standing roll top bath and walk in shower. The newly refurbished
Dorchester Suite has sumptuous surroundings and is set over one floor. There is
a spacious separate sitting room and the en-suite bathroom offers a
free-standing bath and double walk in shower. Each suite is as special as the
other.
The spa at the Bishopstrow Hotel offers an unrivalled experience from
beginning to end. The cool design allows
this classic, yet contemporary spa to present a calm and tranquil environment
set amongst mature gardens to a journey of self discovery. Our team of professional and dedicated
therapists will enhance your treatment experience and allow you to slip away
into a place of serenity.
We also offer membership packages tailored to suit your needs. Our
membership team will provide professional advice to ensure desired fitness
levels and goals are achieved. A full
list of our stunning spa facilities can be found here. If you want to pick the
perfect spa treatment then the full list of treatments can be found here.
When looking for spa hotels Wiltshire, why
not experience everything that Bishopstrow Hotel and spa has to offer Simply contact us today and we will guide you through each room and
facility which would best suit your needs and allow us to welcome you to what
we believe to be an unforgettable experience.
HISTORY - Originally the manor house was built in 1736 by the Temple
Family who continued to own the property for around 200 years.
In 1770 the Doric Temple was built along the banks of our private stretch of
the River Wylye along with a summer house.
A new house was built in 1817 north of the original manor house to a
design by John Pinch, the elder and is where we stand today.
In 1977 Kurt Schiller purchased the property and turned it into a hotel
and over the following ten years increased the amount of bedrooms available,
built two swimming pools and tennis courts.
The property exchanged hands over the many years and until very recently
was purchased by Longleat Enterprise Limited, famous for the Longleat Safari
and Adventure Park.
The Bishopstrow Hotel is what we like to refer to as a haven of
tranquillity, located within its own 27 acres of established grounds alongside
the River Wylye. Ideal for short family breaks or for those wishing to
have a peaceful and relaxing time away. Conveniently located between Bath
and Salisbury off the M4 , A36 and 6 miles from Longleat nestled in the
beautiful Wiltshire countryside.
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B23. SOUTH LODGE HOTEL
Brighton Road, NR. HORSHAM, West Sussex, RH13 6PS
Tel: +44 (0) 1403 891 711;
Fax: +44 (0) 1403 891 766
From their Website: This magnificent country house hotel in Horsham, West Sussex, is
set amongst acres of woodland and parkland. Already one of the finest
luxury hotels in England, South Lodge Hotel has enjoyed a stylish
investment programme, lifting it to new heights in five-star country
house hotel luxury.
Sleeping in our Country House Hotel...
You may think that sleeping is a rather unimportant part of
your Exclusive break but we simply don't agree!
Here at one of the finest country house hotels in West Sussex, we have a
few treats to make your stay as enjoyable as possible.
The 89 rooms and suites here at South Lodge are an
irresistible fusion of the past and present. Every room is individually styled
and designed so that no two are the same, with gorgeous soft furnishings, plump
cushions and quirky furniture.
We provide flawless attention to detail and homely charm in
bucket loads as well as the most spectacular views over the South Downs.
Luxury weekend breaks in Sussex at South Lodge Hotel Master Suites
Our suites offer the highest standards of design and comfort
with sumptuous furnishings and fittings…
Exceptional amenities, and a queen or king sized bed. These spacious
and luxurious suites also feature their own restful seating area.
Beautifully appointed, spacious rooms featuring exceptional
amenities and a single or double sized bed to surpass all beds. You will be left wishing you could stay a few
days longer! All good things come to those who book...
Reserve a room the old fashioned way, call us on + 44 (0) 1403
891711
Guests at South Lodge Country House Hotel in West
SussexSnuggle up
All our gorgeous beds each have divinely comfortable handmade
mattresses and breathable hand-finished duvets. But that's not all, each room
also has a pillow menu so you can choose the type of pillow to suit you and the
way you sleep!
And lastly, before you turn in, we make sure we place a
weather forecast for the following day in your room so you can plan your day in
advance and with confidence.
Sussex Golf Breaks
Guests on Sussex golf breaks are invited to enjoy preferential
green fees at the hotel’s sister property, Mannings Heath Golf Club, just a
five-minute drive away. Each of the two golf courses in Sussex at Mannings has
its own individual playing characteristics...
West Sussex Golf Breaks - The Waterfall Golf CourseThe
Waterfall Golf Course
Established in 1905, the Waterfall is the club's members' only
course also available for corporate golf days and residents of South Lodge. A
par 72 course, it is said that Harry Colt had a hand in its development and
design. Offering a lovely feeling of seclusion created by the mature trees and
dramatic undulating terrain it is an immaculate test of golf!
West Sussex Golf Breaks - The Kingfisher Golf CourseThe
Kingfisher Golf Course
Opened in 1996, the Kingfisher Course is set in an ‘Area of
Outstanding Natural Beauty’and offers fine panoramic views across the South
Downs. It is designed as a traditional British golf course “laid gently on the
landscape” and, unusually for a modern course, has no water hazards.
With its enviable USGA spec greens and lush fairways, the
course is offered as a truly exceptional green fee only facility.
West Sussex Golf Breaks at South Lodge Hotel - ideal for
groups!Golf Breaks
We have recently restored not only The Bothy here at South
Lodge Hotel but also the 19th Century Fullers Cottage at Mannings Heath
(pictured left). Oozing country charm they are the perfect place to stay with a
group of pals for a wonderful Sussex golf break.
Built in the neo-Jacobean style of many Sussex country houses
of the period, South Lodge is a hotel with an established and colourful
history. It was developed in several
stages by Frederick Du Cane Godman.
Our five star hotel in Sussex was originally built on the site
of an existing modest dwelling in 1883, and great care was taken not to disturb
the magnificent camellia between the dining room windows. He began his last of
the substantial additions in 1911 when the Drawing Room Wing was constructed.
Well travelled and Born in 1834, Frederick Du Cane Godman was
a remarkable Victorian imaginative collector, a gentleman explorer, a man of
boundless energy and rigorous scholarship.
The third son of Joseph Godman, a partner in Whitbread &
Co., Frederick inherited an ample fortune which allowed him to travel the world
extensively and later, to amass one of the most important collections of Iznik,
Hispano-Mauresque and Persian pottery in the world, which can now be viewed in
the British Museum.
He also had a lifelong scientific fascination in all aspects
of natural history and in 1876 conceived the idea of publishing the ‘Biologia
Centrali Americane’; a monumental classification of the natural history of the
Sub-Continent which took 20 years to complete.
Avid Gardeners
Frederick’s second wife, Dame Alice shared her husband’s enthusiasm
for gardening and helped gather a superlative collection of rare orchids,
alpine plants, magnolias and Rhododendron hybrids - many of which can still be
seen around the grounds today. The Godman children, Eva and Edith inherited
their parent’s love of travel and flora and fauna. During their long and
devoted guardianship of their father’s estate they preserved South Lodge as it
has been in his day and maintained the gardens as best they could in the
harsher economic climate after World War II.
After the last of the Godman family died in 1982, the house
became South Lodge Hotel in July 1985 with Exclusive Hotels investing heavily
in the property which they continue to do.
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B24. THE ELMS
Stockton Road, ABBERLEY, Worcester, WR6 6AT
Tel: 01299 896666 | Email: info@theelmshotel.co.uk
From their Website: The Elms Hotel is much loved by children and parents alike.
Located in beautiful rural Worcestershire, this Queen Anne mansion boasts a
family friendly spa, a fine dining restaurant and complimentary crèche.
At The Elms Hotel and Spa, our aim is to ensure your family
feels completely at home so that you can relax, have fun with the kids and
enjoy grown-up time for yourselves. You’ll find locally sourced food, a family
spa, gorgeous grounds and superb children’s facilities.
About us
At The Elms, we strive to provide luxury family holidays in a
stylish home from home alongside efficient, heartfelt service. We offer families stylish and desirable
family breaks through a unique combination of Ofsted registered childcare,
great family facilities, delicious food and wine, a beautiful spa, understated
yet attentive service in a luxurious setting and makes the perfect location for
exploring the Midlands.
Together with a unique family friendly atmosphere,
The Elms also provides the perfect setting for conferences, private dining
parties and weddings. Our function rooms are beautifully appointed, creating a
welcoming ambience which stands the passage of time.
The Elms Hotel and Spa boasts 23 beautiful rooms suitable for
families of all sizes throughout the main house and coach house annex with
everything guests of all ages will need for a luxury stay.
Our rooms
-Deluxe room: We have five Deluxe rooms available, offering spacious comfort
for large families to share within one room.
Sleeps up to two
adults and three children
Seating area within
bedroom*
King-size double
beds
Twin rooms available
Located in main
house
Fantastic garden
views
Interconnecting
rooms available
*Three Deluxe rooms have sofa seating areas, the other two
have chairs and table
-Executive room: Our
four Executive rooms offer families enough space to all share or are perfect
for couples requiring something larger than a Classic room.
Sleeps up to two
adults and two children
King or queen-size
double beds
Twin rooms available
Located in main
house
Garden views
Interconnecting
rooms available
-Classic Room: We have
five beautifully appointed Classic rooms available for couples or small
families travelling with one child or infant.
Sleeps up to two
adults and one child
Standard double beds
Twin rooms available
Located in main
house
Interconnecting
rooms available
-Coach House Room: The
six Coach House rooms are perfect for families to share within one room or for
couples requiring some more privacy away from the main house.
Sleeps up to two
adults and two children – some rooms slightly smaller than others
Standard double beds
Located in coach
house annex
Dogs accommodated in
these rooms
Ground floor rooms
available
Patio seating area
Interconnecting
rooms available
All above bedrooms have tea and coffee making facilities, baby
listening monitors, bathroom amenities, bathrobes and towels for the whole
family. Fridge, bottle warmer and steriliser available on request. Cots and
Z-beds available free of charge with all bedding. Changing mats, baby blankets
and nappy bins provided for all babies as standard.
Standard Room. All
bedrooms have tea and coffee making facilities, bathroom amenities, bathrobes
and towels.
We have two beautifully appointed Standard double rooms for
couples or single occupancy.
Sleeps up to two
adults only – please note no children can be accommodated in this room type
Standard double beds
Located in main
house
Family Suite
-The Gladstone suite is made up of two double bedrooms, two
bathrooms and large separate lounge suitably accommodating the largest families
in one apartment-style suite.
Sleeps up to two
adults and five children
Standard double bed
in master bedroom with en suite shower room
Queen double or twin
beds in second bedroom
Family bathroom
Large lounge with
sofa bed with space for additional Z-beds and/or cots
Located in main
house
Fantastic views of
Teme Valley
The Suite has tea and coffee making facilities, baby listening
monitor, bathroom amenities, bathrobes and towels for the whole family. Fridge,
bottle warmer and steriliser available on request. Cots and Z-beds available
free of charge with all bedding. Changing mats, baby blankets and nappy bins
provided for all babies as standard.
Interconnecting Rooms
We offer a variety of interconnecting rooms throughout our main
house and our coach house annex for families who want some extra space and
privacy. No interconnecting rooms have a lounge.
-Deluxe and Executive rooms – one pair available: Sleeps up to two adults and four children
(additional two children in parent’s Deluxe room). Both rooms can twin
-Deluxe and Classic rooms – one pair available: Sleeps up to two adults and three children
(additional two children in parent’s Deluxe room). Deluxe room can twin, Classic room is
standard double
-Classic and Classic rooms – one pair available: Sleeps up to two adults and two children
comfortably (one additional cot only in larger Classic Twin room). One Classic
room can twin, other Classic room is standard double
-Coach House and Coach House rooms – two pairs available: Sleeps up to two adults and three children
(additional one child in parent’s room).
Both pairs have one standard
double bed and one twin room one room in ground floor pair is the disabled room
with wet room bathroom and no bath
All max occupancy amounts are for all children to be sleeping
in the second bedroom. Additional cots and Z-beds are available to be put in
parents rooms if necessary, unless otherwise stated above. If booking more than
two children into an interconnecting room, third child will be on Z-bed or in a
cot.
Our spa has facilities for families and adults only, to suit
all guests wanting to enjoy either a fun-filled family experience or a relaxing
spa day.
Pool Area
Our pool area is home to an indoor 12 metre pool and an
indoor/outdoor hydro pool.
Access to the pool area is permitted during opening hours to
guests of all ages; no time restrictions at all apply to little ones wanting a
splash around. Why not grab some inflatables and dive straight in?
Our indoor and outdoor hydro pool helps ease those aching
muscles and children over the age of eight can enjoy some bubbly fun too. Be
amazed at the invigorating experience that can be had whilst enjoying some
bubbles outside on a wintery day.
Thermal Suite
The thermal suite is a luxurious escape away from the hustle
and bustle of family life where parents can relax and rejuvenate.
Soothe in the sauna, clear your senses in the steam room, cool
off with the ice fountain and enjoy a very different experience in the
rainforest shower. Access to the thermal retreat is restricted to guests of 16
years and over.
Fitness Suite, Relaxation Room & Roof Top Terrace
Our fitness suite has everything you need for a daily workout.
Follow this with a time out to unwind in the relaxation room or enjoy the
sunshine on the roof top terrace.
The fitness suite is home to treadmill, rowing machine, bike,
weight bench and machine and cross-trainer. Personal training sessions are
available to pre-book for those needing some direction, encouragement and
assistance with gaining the most beneficial workout.
Enjoy the perfect space to relax in after a pampering
treatment or simply take time to unwind the stress of day-to-day family life,
listening to soothing sounds in the tranquil environment that is the relaxation
room.
During the warmer months guests can enjoy an alfresco drink
and bite to eat upon our rooftop terrace looking out over the kitchen gardens,
where the menu originated.
Both suites and terrace are within the treatment area of the
spa and are for adults only.
Our Crèche - The Bears Den is an Ofsted registered crèche open every day
from 10am to 5pm with an array of exciting activities available to all
children.
Activities change daily but to give you an idea of what the
little ones will be enjoying during your visit, please see below some of the
fun to be had in the Bears Den crèche.
Pottery painting
Design a mask
Cake decorating
Ping pong painting
Finger puppets
Door hangers
Glass painting
Jewellery making
Dream catchers
Biscuit decorating
During all school holidays we also have very special
activities
Green finger
gardening
Easter egg hunt
Visits from the
Animal Man
Treasure hunts
Shows from the Magic
Man
We also have special annual events with bouncy castles and
outdoor games such as Mad Hatter's Tea Party, Family Fun BBQ and Teddy Bears
Picnic which are fun for all the family. Please see our events calendar for the
next family event.
Sessions and Booking
The Bears Den offers three sessions a day to entertain the
little guests of up to eight years old.
Children over eight are unsupervised; however, can enjoy the older kid’s
zone at any time during opening hours.
Session times start at 10am, 12.30pm and 3pm every day and
last two hours each – for the 30 minutes between each session the crèche is
closed. Pre-booking is required for both residents and non-residents; this
service is not guaranteed for any guest who has not pre-booked.
There are two sessions available per child, per day and this
may be limited to one session per day during peak times, such as school
holidays. This service is fully complimentary. Non-residents are permitted to
one session slot only.
This service is subject to availability at time of booking,
therefore we recommend checking availability with the crèche prior to making a
reservation should you wish to make full use of this facility, especially
during peak times.
History of The Elms
This beautiful Queen Anne mansion was built in 1710 having
been designed by architect Gilbert White of Worcester, a pupil of Sir
Christopher Wren.
Records show it has always been known as The Elms. There is no
doubt this was because of the elm trees lining the driveway. These elms have
long since gone and today large limes stand in their place.
Since 1840, The Elms has been a home to a variety of occupants
from Admiral Malin to the rector of Great Witley and finally Sir Richard
Brooke, Baronet in 1916. Sir Richard added on two wings to the house, but on
the first night following completion of this work, the old centre block of the
house caught fire and was completely gutted, leaving only the main walls
standing. Sir Richard then rebuilt it in its present form.
The Elms was sold in 1946 and turned into a country house
hotel. The Elms is now listed as a Building of Special Architectural Interest.
Pets - Not just a Luxury Family Hotel, we are dog
friendly too! Tickle, our chocolate labrador, and George, our jet black cat,
are always delighted when guests bring their pets. We know how hard it can be to leave your
beloved pets at home when you set off for a luxury family break, so we offer
guests the opportunity to bring their four-legged friends along too.
The Elms’ countryside location provides plenty of
opportunities for taking the dog for a walk. There are the gardens and the
parkland that surrounds the house as well as some amazing walks.
Dogs are
accommodated in our coach house rooms only and there is a £10 charge per day
for cleaning. Don't forget the dogs bedding, food and treats; they want to
experience the comfort too!
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B25. MIDDLETHORPE HALL
YORK, Yorkshire, YO23 2GB
Tel: +44 (0)1904 641241; Fax: +44 (0)1904 620176
E-mail: info@middlethorpe.com
E-mail: info@middlethorpe.com
From their Website: Middlethorpe Hall is a William and Mary country house, built
in 1699 of mellow red brick with limestone dressings, for Thomas Barlow, a
master cutler from Sheffield. It was bought in the 1980s and reopened as a
luxury hotel, Restaurant and Spa in 1984, rescued from decay, caringly and
lovingly restored by Historic House Hotels. In September 2008, Middlethorpe
Hall and the other two Historic House Hotels became the inalienable property of
the National Trust by donation, with all profits benefiting the houses and the
charity.
The twenty-nine comfortable and fully equipped bedrooms, each
decorated individually, are located both in the house and in the attractively
restored 18th century courtyard next to it. There are several room types
ranging from single rooms to a deluxe suite in the main house. Ten of the
rooms are in the main house, seventeen in the 18th Century classical Courtyard,
as well as a Garden Suite and two Cottage Suites in an adjacent cottage.
The restoration, conservation and conversion into a country
house hotel has been carried out to exacting and historically accurate
standards. It has been elegantly decorated in the manner of the 18th Century
and furnished with antiques and fine paintings, so that its look and ambiance
is that of a well-kept, well-furnished private manor house rather than a 29
bedroom Hotel (ten rooms and suites in the house, and nineteen in the adjacent
18th Century courtyard).
The 20 acres of manicured gardens and parkland which surround
Middlethorpe Hall are also the result of a transformation - from a rose bed and
nettles to a parterre that now includes a fragrant rose garden, intriguing
walled garden and romantic meadow which leads to a lake surrounded by beautiful
specimen trees. There is also a ha'ha.
Middlethorpe Hall is renowned for its imaginative cuisine and
its panelled dining rooms which overlook the manicured gardens. It also boasts
a Health and Fitness Spa built behind the handsome façade of two listed
Edwardian cottages. This offers guests a range of facilities from Decléor, ESPA
and Jessica treatments with trained therapists to a splendid swimming pool,
sauna and gymnasium.
Middlethorpe Hall, like its sister hotels Hartwell House in
Aylesbury and Bodysgallen Hall near Llandudno, has achieved a graceful
transition from country house to first-class hotel without losing its
character. Indeed, Historic House Hotels are now the yardstick by which others
must be judged.
Middlethorpe Hall welcomes children over the age of 6.
In the interest of the majority of our guests and the safety
of historic Middlethorpe Hall, all rooms and bedrooms have been designated
non-smoking.
Visit York 'Hotel of the Year' 2012 Award
History
York is exceptionally rich in 18th-century houses of
superlative quality, not the least of which is Middlethorpe Hall. It is a
perfect William and Mary country house built in c.1699-1701 of beautifully laid
mellow red brick with limestone dressing and panelled interiors of excellent
joinery.
It was built for Thomas Barlow, a prosperous master cutler who
bought the Middlethorpe estate in 1698 as a bid to establish himself as a
country gentleman, a familiar pattern in English life. The house he built is
curiously close to the road for a seat of such architectural consequence,
though convenient now that it is a hotel.
Like all Queen Ann houses, Middlethorpe is influenced
indirectly by the architecture of Sir Christopher Wren, especially his Hampton
Court of the 1690's with its horizontal skyline and its pattern of red brick,
white sash windows and stone quoins and window surrounds; all features taken up
at Middlethorpe. The handsome north entrance front of seven bays and three full
storeys plus a basement is surrounded by a proud stone eagle, the Barlow family
crest. The pedimented porch over the front door is early 19th century addition,
while the attractive curved railings and gates enclosing the forecourt were
added by the present owners in 1983.
The south front, the main facade of the house, is surmounted
by a raised stone parapet of three panels containing carved festoons and
crowned by another stone eagle. It is more impressive than the north front
because of the flaking wings added in the mid 18th century by Francis Barlow,
High Sheriff of Yorkshire. The bays of these one-storeyed additions are divided
by pilasters with well carved composite capitals and are surmounted by a
balustraded parapet.
The front door leads straight into the stone-flagged entrance
hall, as in a medieval house. Beyond to the south is the honest feature of the
interior, the magnificent carved oak staircase with its fluted and foliated
balusters, a typical York motif, standing on steps with scrolled panelled ends.
The staircase, supported at one point by a fine Corinthian column, has an odd
relation to the adjacent doors and windows. It is probably mid 18th century and
may not be quite in its original position. The floor is paved with black and
white marble squares. Passing through the panelled drawing room we reach the
enormous ballroom occupying the western of the two wings added in c.1750. The
dining room dates from the original period of the house and has the finest
panelling incorporating round head panels flanked by Ionic pilasters. The
reception room and bedrooms throughout the house have been decorated by the
present owners in a historically accurate manner and have been provided by
appropriate furniture and pictures of the 18th and early 19th centuries. Expert
historical advice has been taken where it was desirable to remove later decorative
accretion and reinstate panelling, chimney pieces and door cases.
The same care and imagination have been exercised in improving
and restoring the grounds and outbuildings; hundreds of trees have been
planted, a ha-ha constructed, a lake formed, the ruinous late 17th century
dovecote restored, the kitchen garden bought back and replanted, the stable
buildings tactfully converted and extended so as to provide additional hotel
accommodation. The splendid result is that Middlethorpe, which has variously been
used as a girls’ boarding school and a night club, once again looks as it ought
always: a handsomely appointed and beautifully furnished country house with
excellent kitchens, a fine cellar, perfect service, and a green English garden.
Dr. David Watkin
December 1983
Access
Requirements
Please advise us of any access needs that you have, so that we can provide the appropriate service
Please advise us of any access needs that you have, so that we can provide the appropriate service
Booking
Conditions
We respectfully remind guests that a reservation constitutes a contract between themselves and Middlethorpe Hall. Any reservation cancelled within 48 hours of arrival is liable to be charged for, unless we are able to re-let the accommodation to another guest. Historic House Hotels reserves the right to alter rates without prior notice. Break rates are only applicable if pre-booked directly with the hotel.
We respectfully remind guests that a reservation constitutes a contract between themselves and Middlethorpe Hall. Any reservation cancelled within 48 hours of arrival is liable to be charged for, unless we are able to re-let the accommodation to another guest. Historic House Hotels reserves the right to alter rates without prior notice. Break rates are only applicable if pre-booked directly with the hotel.
Bedrooms
are guaranteed to be ready by 2pm on the day of arrival, and check-out time is
by 12noon on the day of departure.
ROOM RATES FOR 2012
-Located in the Courtyard
Single bedroom £129.00
Standard Double for single occupancy £159.00
Standard double/twin bedroom £199.00
Superior double/twin bedroom £239.00
Junior suite £279.00
Deluxe suite £399.00
-Located in the Main house:
Single bedroom £139.00
Deluxe Double for single occupancy £179.00
Deluxe double/twin bedroom £269.00
Four poster bedroom £369.00
The Lady Mary suite £379.00
The Duke of York suite £479.00
-Cottage or Garden Suites:
Cottage suite (75 yards of the main house) £329.00
Garden suite (75 yards of the main house) £399.00
Room rate include early morning tea, full English breakfast,
full use of Middlethorpe Spa and complimentary parking. Tariffs are all inclusive. Guest need not pay extra for
service unless they wish to. Free Wi-Fi internet access
Access Requirements
Please advise us of any access needs that you have, so that we
can provide the appropriate service
Booking Conditions
We respectfully remind guests that a reservation constitutes a
contract between themselves and Middlethorpe Hall. Any reservation cancelled within 48 hours of
arrival is liable to be charged for, unless we are able to re-let the
accommodation to another guest. Historic
House Hotels reserves the right to alter rates without prior notice. Break rates are only applicable if pre-booked
directly with the hotel.
Bedrooms are guaranteed to be ready by 2pm on the day of
arrival, and check-out time is by 12noon on the day of departure.
A Luxury Spa - An essential part of a visit to Middlethorpe
Hall is the opportunity to relax and enjoy the pleasures of the Spa. Swim in the warm clear water of the inviting
pool lined with blue mosaic tiles, relax in the steam room, sauna and the
bubbling waters of the whirlpool bath.
Experienced therapists offer a wide range of beauty treatments
using Decléor, ESPA, Caci-Quantum, and Jessica products. Middlethorpe Spa Health and Beauty Days and
Half Days and individual treatments are available to resident and day guests.
Residential guests and Club members have full use of the Spa
with its indoor swimming pool, whirlpool spa bath, steam room, sauna,
gymnasium, and club room. Beauty
treatments are available for non-residents and non-members.
_______________________________________
B26. CULLODEN HOUSE
INVERNESS, Scotland, IV2 7BZ
Telephone: +44 (0) 1463 790461
Fax: +44 (0) 1463 792181
From their Website: Your romantic stay in Scotland will be unforgettable. By all means, enjoy the beautiful house and
the majesty of the grounds. Croquet is
set up on the lawn and there's a new tennis court for your pleasure. Keep fit
by walking or jogging through the grounds and onto Culloden Forest’s
trails. Indulge yourself with fine
dining and wines, our superb collection of rare whiskys, and afternoon tea by
the fire. Sleep in rooms with
wonderfully comfortable beds and all the niceties expected in a fine
hotel. Detox in a sauna located deep in
the dungeon. Be pampered with in-room massage and beauty treatments. Wander among the flowers, fruit trees and
wildflower meadows in our freshly re-designed four acre walled garden. Stay long enough to experience the
world-class sites and attractions located practically on our doorstep - from
championship golf courses to National Trust treasures.
The Rooms
Twenty-eight charming bedrooms each uniquely decorated in
understated comfort - your private domain with room service just a call away.
Some of our spacious rooms have delightful features such as crystal chandeliers
and marble fireplaces. Combine the luxury of a romantically furnished room with
all the modern comforts you need and you won't want to leave.
Spa & Fitness
You don’t have to leave our grounds to enjoy fresh Highland
air, exercise and some pampering. Come
enjoy:
- Croquet set up on the front lawn
- Walking or jogging paths into Culloden Forest.
- A new all-weather Tennis court
- A Sauna located deep in the dungeon.
Beauty & Massage Treatments
We are able to offer you a range of beauty and massage
treatments in the privacy of most guestrooms. Treatments include sport and
aromatherapy massage, manicures, facials and make-up. Massage and beauty treatments must be booked
in advance.
The Gardens & Grounds
Upon entering the gates, first your eye is caught by the
beautiful house and the sweeping lawn.
Then you may notice the towering trees circling the drive.
In the 18th century, it was the fashion to grow an arboreteum
of trees newly discovered by plant hunters.
300 years later seeds collected while exploring China and the Americas
have grown into the magnificent specimen trees before you.
The 40-acre estate includes for your pleasure seasonal
bluebell and rhododendron walks, open parkland, bicycle paths, a croquet lawn,
tennis court, duck pond, and a small photogenic herd of shaggy-haired Highland
cattle.
Our four-acre 18th century walled garden is designed for your
enjoyment from early spring flowering bulbs through autumn orchard fruits. It recently received a stylish new design by
Michael Innes, formerly the Gardens Advisor for the National Trust of Scotland.
History
By the end of the 18th century, Inverness, the capital of the
Highlands, attracted wealthy families from all over the Highlands to settle and
enjoy the balls, assemblies and pleasures found in a metropolitan city.
A ring of mansions and fine houses sprang up around in the
neighborhood of Inverness. The finest of
the country houses still survives, Culloden House, an exquisite Georgian
mansion set in open parkland.
But the existing house, already over 200 years old, is not the
first house to stand on the site.
Originally it was a 16th century Jacobean castle and parts of the house
date back to this time.
Early on various owners claimed Culloden as their home ranging
from the family of the first Stuart King, Robert II, to the chieftain of the
Macintosh clan.
Forbes Family
In 1625 Duncan Forbes purchased Culloden from the Macintosh
chieftain and the Forbes family began their nearly 300 year history with
it. Descended from the Forbes of
Tolquhoun on his father's side, and of the Keiths, Earls Marischal on his
mother's, he was a clear example of a wealthy urban merchant leaving trade to
set his family up as land owners and lairds.
The Forbes were known for their lavish lifestyle and generous
hospitality. The 4th Laird of Culloden's
nickname "Bumper John" cames from his fondness for French wines. Around 1730, the author of the book Letters
from A Gentleman in the North of Scotland writes about Bumper John:
"There lives in a house or castle called Culloden, a
gentleman whose hospitality is almost without bounds. It is the custom of that house, at the first
visit or introduction, to take up your freedom cracking his nut (as he terms
it), that is a coconut shell, which holds a pint filled with champagne, or such
other sort of wine as you shall choose.
You may guess that few go away sober at any time; and for the greatest
part of his guests, in that conclusion, they cannot go at all. A hogshead of fine claret was kept in the
hall, so that guests or even passer-bys could refresh themselves with a pint of
claret."
It was the most famous Forbes of all, another Duncan, who
inherited the lands from his older brother, Bumper John.
Duncan was Lord Chief Justice of Scotland at the time of the
'45 Uprising. As staunch Presbyterians,
the family had suffered during earlier Jacobite uprisings, including having the
house occupied and plundered by Viscount Dundee in 1688.
Wise and persuasive, Duncan convinced some powerful Highland
chiefs not to join the '45 uprising. Sir
Walter Scott described Duncan as the "distinguished Scotsman who by his
efforts saved the Hanoverian throne".
Duncan, however, was appalled by the aftermath of the battle
and urged George II not to inflict harsh punishment on the Highlanders. But George II was shaken by the rebellion and
not in the mood to listen. He angrily responded to Duncan's pleas by
withholding payment of funds owned Duncan by the crown, nearly ruining his
fortune.
Duncan died a few years after the battle, it is said, of a
broken heart.
It was left to later Forbes to rebuild the family fortune and
create the beautiful house we know today.
New Beginnings
Duncan's son John was able, slowly, to rebuild the family's
fortunes. These efforts were crowned
when his son Arthur married an English heiress, Miss Sarah Stratton, from Kent. They had now the means to renovate Culloden
House into a fine new house.
Their plan was for a house designed in a manner made
fashionable by Robert Adam, the pre-eminent architect of this time.
As typical with Adam make-overs, the plan was to keep the main
house walls intact but remove the outer castle fortifications. Indeed, lasting
peace in the Highlands following the Battle of Culloden meant Culloden's defensive surround walls were no longer
necessary.
Robert Adam
Fortunately for the Forbes, Robert Adam and his family were
commissioned by King George II to design and build Ft. George located just six
miles away.
Extant letters show that Robert Adam was a friend and
houseguest at Culloden House during this period. His influence in Culloden's 1770's renovation
can be seen in the elegant Palladian architecture, the light and airy
interiors, and the Adam plaster reliefs and fireplaces.
They succeeded in creating what has been described as
"one of the most attractive small country houses of its period in
Scotland".
_______________________________________
B27. BODYSGALLEN HALL
LLANDUDNO, North Wales LL30 1RS
Tel: +44 (0)1492 584 466; Fax: +44 (0)1492 582519
E-mail: info@bodysgallen.com
From their Website: The hotel features 15 spacious bedrooms in the main hall
including four Principal Suites: The Mostyn Suite, The Lady Augusta Suite, The
Conwy Suite and The Vaughan Suite. Each bedroom is individually decorated and
furnished with antique furniture and works of art, enjoying glorious views over
Bodysgallen's parkland or gardens, with some rooms having further reaching
views of Conwy Castle or the distant Mountains of Snowdonia.
Sixteen delightful cottage suites, with picturesque names like
The Smithy, Box Cottage and Pineapple Lodge, are situated in the grounds and
provide accommodation for guests preferring a greater degree of privacy. Many cottages enjoy their own private
gardens, and some are in close proximity to the Bodysgallen Spa. All are charming and delightful.
The restaurant is the only 3 AA Rosette rated restaurant in
Llandudno, and its menus feature delicious dishes using fresh local
ingredients.
The Spa - The Bodysgallen Spa comprises a spacious
swimming pool, steam room, sauna, solarium, gym, beauty treatment rooms, and
therapy rooms, a relaxation room, and a club room where you can enjoy light
refreshments and snacks. As a resident
guest, you may enjoy the use of the Bodysgallen Spa.
Homes and Gardens Magazine 2008 - 'One of the Top 10 Luxury UK
Spas'
The Sunday Times 2007 - 'One of the Top 10 UK Spa Hotels'
Conde Nast Traveller Magazine - 'One of the 10 Best UK Spa
Retreats'"
The Spa at Bodysgallen Hall offers a variety of health and
beauty/relaxation treatments to hotel residents, day guests and Spa Club
members alike.
The hotel is ideally placed for visiting the many historic
castles and stately homes in North Wales. Famous golf courses adorn the
coastline.
Gardens
Bodysgallen is surrounded by over 200 acres of its own
parkland and beautiful gardens -- both manicured and wild.
The gardens have been recognised for their award winning
restoration. Featured within the estate's grounds are a rare 17th century
parterre of box hedges filled with sweet-scented herbs, naturally occurring
limestone outcrops, a rockery with a cascade, a walled garden, lily-pad ponds,
and several follies. The gardens also
include a formal rose garden and a number of well-established and interesting
trees and shrubs including medlar and mulberry, which add further dimension to
the gardens.
Various springs traverse the parklands, and there are several
woodland walks such as the Terrace Walk, the Ladies Walk, the Eastern Covert
Walk or the Pydew Village Walk that lead to a Gothic Tower and the obelisk
located on top of Pydew mountain.
History
Bodysgallen is situated on the west of Pydew mountain, almost
invisible except for its chimneys which overtop the trees. In 1810, the
historian Fenton noted that it is 'embosomed in woods of noble growth, which
suffered to luxuriate their own way without any fear of the axe'.
Despite the gradual addition of one wing, then another, during
a building history of 600 years, the whole house is built in the same sturdy
and conservative style. The name may mean either 'house among thistles' or 'the
abode of Cadwallon', a 6th century chieftain. The oldest part of the house is a
five storey tower, probably dating from the late 13th century, and possibly
built as a watch tower for Conwy Castle.
The long connection between the house and the Mostyn family
started in the 16th century. In the early 17th century Margaret Mostyn married
Hugh Wynn; and it is their son, Robert Wynn whose initials, with those of his
wife Katherine, appear on the datestone with the year 1620 on the south gable.
The two main storeys of this early 17th century building
comprise a large entrance hall, and an equally large room above, now the
Drawing Room. Both rooms have two fireplaces, one in a bay in the corner. In
the Drawing Room on the first floor, there are 17th century coats of arms of
the Mostyns, Wynns and Vaughans. The kitchen wing was added in 1730. During this period the gardens were being
established, with the gradual development of the pattern of walled gardens, which
are to be seen today. In 1832, the Mostyns pioneered the installation of a
water closet from one John W. Williams of St. Asaph.
By the end of the 19th century, Bodysgallen had become
something of an architectural jumble, with brick chimneys and Georgian sliding
sash windows. It was rescued from this state by the formidable Lady Augusta
Mostyn, who restored and enlarged it around the turn of the century for her
second son, Colonel Henry. The sensitivity of her work is remarkable in
restoring the vernacular architecture of the house, which plays such an
important role in creating its atmosphere today.
During the First World War, Colonel Henry Mostyn raised the
17th Battalion of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers, whom he paraded in the park to the
north of the house. The oak tree in the centre of the field commemorates this.
Following the death of Colonel Henry in 1938, and his widow in
1949, their eccentric son, Ieven Mostyn, succeeded and the house entered a long
period of gradual decline. His niece sold the property in 1969 when it became a
private guest house. After purchase, Historic House Hotels commenced their
restoration in 1980, and the house opened as a hotel, in its present form,
between 1981 and 1983.
_______________________________________
B28. ADARE MANOR
Adare County, LIMERICK, Ireland
T: 353 61 605200 · Fax: 353 61 396124
From their Website: A romantic escape, a business excursion or a family outing -
your stay at Adare Manor Hotel can be tailored to your specific needs - whether
you leave it to the staff of this 5 Star Hotel Limerick to look after you
during your stay or for a more independent visit in one of our luxury
self-catering options - have a look through our Adare Accommodation choices and
see what's best for you.
There are 62 Bedrooms in the Manor House:
-Lady Caroline's Room
-4 Dunraven Staterooms
-8 Staterooms
-34 Deluxe Bedrooms
-15 Standard Bedrooms
There are a further 17 two and four bedroom Townhouses, 8
Clubhouse bedrooms and 46 three and four bedroom Villas.
The swimming pool and steam room overlook the River Maigue and
are located in the Manor House. The 15
metre heated swimming pool and steam
room are available to Manor and Townhouse residents between 7:00am and 9:00pm.
The pool is approx. 59" deep, 15 metres long and 7 metres wide. The
Lockers are located directly in front of the swimming area and inside the
Ladies Changing Room. The average water temperature is 27 Degrees Celsius. Children under 12 years of age must be
accompanied by an adult.
Our fitness room is adjacent to the pool area. Opening hours
are from 7:00am – 9:00 pm. The Fitness Room is equipped with Nautilus
equipment, treadmill and lifecycles. Complimentary water and fruits are
provided.
So many activities available here is itsn’t funny. From archery, biking, balloon rides, shooting,
private escorted day trips and much much more.
See their website.
History
If a passer by had stopped to look at the Dunraven family home
in the 1830s he would have seen a typical Georgian house. Returning twenty
years later, he would have found that modest structure had disappeared and been
replaced by the exceptional Neo-Gothic Manor that stands to this day. Staring
at its towers, bays and steep roofs, he might have wondered what prompted such
a great change. It is unlikely he would have guessed the reason, for the Manor
owes its existence to one of the most excruciating ailments of that time. The
2nd Earl of Dunraven, an active outdoors man, had been laid low by gout, and
confined to indoors. His wife, Lady Caroline, had encouraged him to embrace
this immense undertaking to distract him from the pain of the disease. It was a
distraction that would develop and mature into the next generation.
When Lord Dunraven began to rebuild his home, he conceived a
grand architectural scheme brimming with vigorous imagination and peppered with
eccentricity. To marshal his taste for eclecticism and keep it in step with the
principles of a beautiful house, the services of a front rank architect were
required. The Earl chose James Pain whose technical flair and ability were
indisputable.
The house is initially reminiscent of a chateau, but many of
its features are shared by great residences of the era in Britain and Ireland.
Mysteriously, the Manor is laid out as a Calendar House. 365 stained windows
and 52 chimneys mark the annual tally of days and weeks. Sleuthing visitors may
be able to spot references to the 7 days of the week and 12 months of the year.
Although there are other examples of such buildings, they are rare, and no one
is certain why the Earl determined on this symbolism. This allusive quality is
heightened by discreet gargoyles and French or Latin mottoes graven on secluded
walls.
Records indicate that the Earl was prone to changing his mind.
As a result, when he died in 1850, the Manor still stood incomplete, compelling
his son to return home from Britain to complete what his father had begun. With
a new generation came zest and focus. The 3rd Earl decided to commission an
innovative new architect, Philip Charles Hardwick, whose remit also ran to
laying out the garden.
Flanked by mature coppices, and the river bank, Hardwick’s
formal garden runs from the southern aspect of the Manor towards the lush
parkland beyond. Lording over Hardwick’s botanic ensemble looms the notable
Cedar of Lebanon. This hoary old Samson had already seen out 200 years when
Hardwick set to work beneath its branches. Nothing, not even the Manor itself,
can claim primacy over it.
Only in the early 1860s did the vision of an agonised man
three decades previously became realised. To this day Adare Manor speaks
volubly for the talent and inventiveness of the people who laboured over it.
Some of their story will always be locked in its stones, but what can be seen
today bears eloquent testimony to their skill and vision.
Until 1982 the Dunravens kept their family seat here. Five
years later the Kane family of Florida took matters in hand, purchasing the 840
acre estate in its entirety. In the Dunraven tradition, no effort was spared in
a restoration that sought to preserve the grand ethos of the house’s earlier
epoch. And rightly so, because it is never forgotten here that the Manor is not
only a hotel but a great and intriguing house.
The full History of Adare Manor is relayed in The Adare Manor
Story.
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