Where better to whisk away for a winter weekend than the crisp air and rolling English country fields? If you’re looking for your next luxury road trip destination, the 5-star Coworth Park might just be a perfect choice.
Located in the heart of The Royal Borough of Berkshire, the spa-hotel-dining destination is just 20 minutes from Windsor or a stone’s throw from Ascot Racecourse.
Part of the global Dorchester Collection, the grand 18th Century building offers a selection of gorgeous modern-meets-countryside rooms and suites for a range of budgets within the main Mansion House, Stables and Gardener’s Cottages; my mum and I stayed in the impressive Executive Mansion Suite.
A studio-style setup, the suite featured a four-poster bed, offering a night’s sleep beyond comfort. Paired with the ‘James Bond TV’, we could have easily spent the evening watching movies and enjoying the room’s other 5-star amenities. Coffee, tea and multiple relaxed seating areas were also available in the generously sized room. However, the suite’s centrepiece had to be the bathroom. Two sets of double doors revealed a walk-in closet space, followed by the most beautiful standalone bath (of dreams!) couple’s sinks, separate toilet and rain shower areas, along with heated flooring which completed the space.
Upon having our luggage hand-delivered to the room, I headed straight to the spa, which was located seconds from the main house. Currently undergoing a soft refurbishment it will soon offer guests an upgraded steam room, gym overlooking the trees and meadows, new sauna and snow shower. The pool remained open and we enjoyed a dip whilst taking in the ambient lighting and underwater music. My masseuse Zoe offered a 60-minute Ishga Majestic Massage, using a tailored body oil, picked for my specific needs. I left the session feeling rejuvenated, relaxed and my problem areas of hips and shoulders were feeling less tense and sore.
Later, we dined at The Barn, a rustic brasserie-style restaurant with an indoor-outdoor feel. The fireplace, wooden features, fairy lights and extra touches like blankets at each table, completed the cosy feel as we ventured in from the cold winter night.
The team was extremely accommodating of our allergies, and discreetly attended to our requests throughout the evening. I chose Marinated Devon White Chicken Breast with a Red Wine Sauce, paired with Buttered Greens and Cheese and Potato Gratin; all simple, classic dishes that were executed in true authentic style. The Barn was a great choice for dinner with a more laidback feel, however, for those looking for a next-level culinary adventure, a must- try is the Michelin-Star Woven by renowned chef Adam Smith. Located in the Mansion House, Woven’s menu is curated seasonal and is ever changing, offering guests a truly unique experience.
A selection of elevated afternoon tea, lunch and bar menus are also available across the Park. Relax in the stately Drawing Room with views of the grounds, a fireplace, and a pianist in the evenings.
The charm doesn’t end there as the Park offers a fully functioning equestrian and polo centre. Guests of all ages and abilities can book a horse riding experience around the beautiful surroundings. Coworth also offers guests complimentary bike hire, tennis courts, sculpture walks and access to explore the lakes and gardens at leisure.
A continental-style breakfast is served at Woven each morning until 10.30AM. After a perfect night’s sleep, we didn’t want to leave the comfort of our suite and decided to order room service. You’re able to choose a time you would like your breakfast delivered, which was a nice touch, and we ended our staycation enjoying a selection of fresh juices, smoothies, homemade granola and pastries and admiring the green sunny views from our floor-to-ceiling windows.
Many hotels fall short of the 5-star experience. Coworth Park however exceeded all expectations, and more. A huge part of the experience was the amazing team, from the door lady who greeted and saw us off with a smile, to the reception, dinner and spa staff who all went above and beyond.
With Christmas festivities launching in early December, a stay at Coworth Park is the perfect gift for your loved ones looking for a Southern countryside wellness retreat. Children are also welcome, with a dedicated Kids Club, menus and activity programme on-site. Already booked up this year? Gift ahead for a new year wellness retreat to beat those January blues.
