Ideal for a slow-paced summer weekend that meanders by at a pace that matches the adjacent river, The Swan at Streatley is perfection for an affordable staycation getaway with style and charisma. Editor Sophie Ritchie checks in for the weekend to share more about the venue’s latest exciting (and most delicious) happenings
Wellness to me has always been a spectrum. It’s much more than just green juices and running regimes and it extends far beyond the realm of a pilates class or an early AM alarm. Wellness is always a state of mind, a feeling of rejuvenated contentment.
For me, it is a tightrope balancing act between a strict health regime and a rested feeling of genuine happiness. Sometimes that means a salad and workout, and sometimes my idea of wellness looks like a slow sleepy start and a warm chocolate croissant.
At The Swan at Streatley, a Coppa Club venue nestled in the picturesque Berkshire countryside, that wellness equilibrium is achieved perfectly. I visit for their ‘Summer Weekend Launch’, designed to showcase all of the property’s most attractive summer features. A converter 17th century inn, this clubhouse offers the luxury of both a restaurant and guest rooms, providing all the essentials, edible or otherwise, required for a scenic riverside getaway.
The clubhouse’s summer highlights range from an outdoor cinema screening under the twinkling stars and scenic boat rides through to stand up paddle boarding taster sessions and group yoga classes and more. From the moment I pull my suitcase over the threshold, I know I’m in for a treat – for body, mind and stomach.
Ideal for a cloudless Friday night in summer, things kick off with an outdoor film screening of Top Gun, hosted in the immaculate grounds of the property. The riverside lawn has already been transformed into an outdoor cinema by the time I arrive, with row after row of striped deckchairs, a pop-up bar, BBQ area and of course, the all-important giant screen.
By the time daylight has disappeared and night falls, I’ve already devoured a plant-based burger and several buckets of complimentary popcorn alongside (I’m not the least bit ashamed to admit I was the first to place my barbecue order of the evening, as battling Reading’s chaotic drivers can be hungry work).
The evening of cinematic action is a great success, with an atmospheric fun feel and sense of local community as I spot families, friends and couples alike all glued to the screen, headphones on to minimise noise. There was even the added bonus of several small dogs running around or appearing under blankets, just happy to be included in the action.
The following day, the hotel transforms into a different hive of action, with a real club house feel from the moment I wander downstairs for an avocado toast breakfast. I spot a huge mix of ages and reasons to pitstop at The Swan at Streatly – whether that be sweating it out in the gym, relaxing on a sofa, chilling outside with friends or pulling up, shades in tow, via gleaming motorboat to be the suavest in Streatley.
The Room
My abode for the night is massive, with a wooden bed headboard that seems to take up half of the room alone. Each of the 45 rooms here have been uniquely decorated, with a mix of comfortable furnishings and spaces to perch.
The spacious bathroom comes kitted out with both a bath and rainfall shower for double pampering, whilst pulling back the heavy curtains and opening the double doors back in the main space reveals a small balcony, perfectly designed for making a cuppa from the in-room kettle and watching the world drift by.
The Wellness
With its own on-site yoga studio, helmed by Grace and Gravity, my day of activities begins with an outdoor group yoga class. Tucked away from the main action, it feels both private and calm, with the gentle stretch reminding me to take time for myself and enjoy a non-strenuous pace of life once in a while.
This is followed back in the main property by a sauna and steam room session, kindly recommended by the hotel’s friendly receptionist, along with a frothy oat cappuccino in the small cafe (wellness is all about the balance, after all).
Post-heat treatment, I make my way back outside for a taster SUP session with paddleboarding expert Lorraine and her assistant. One gentle meander up the Thames and back, I feel rested, restored and ready for some further socialising back over in Surrey to round off the day.
The Wordrobe Verdict
Inhale both a breath of fresh air and a few platefuls of moreish cuisine at this Berkshire-based stay. Perfect for a slow-paced summer weekend that meanders by at a pace that matches the adjacent river, The Swan at Streatley is ideal for an affordable staycation getaway with style and charisma.
The countryside views are quaint, the interiors are charming and the food available is lip-smackingly good to-boot.
Make it happen
Where: Streatley – On – Thames Nr, Reading RG8 9HR
How: Find out more and make a booking via coppaclub.co.uk
Words by Sophie Ritchie, editor
