Following a significant transformation of its reception, lobby, restaurants and suites, Donnington Valley Hotel & Spa in Berkshire has stepped into its new chapter as the gleaming and all-encompassing Donnington & Co. Editor Sophie Ritchie dons a robe at this Newbury-nestled stay to share more
I don’t know about you, but I simply adore a countryside getaway. There’s something about a little road trip, the thrill of overpacking your suitcase with more outfit options than days of the week, of pulling up somewhere pretty and allowing that first “ooh” to escape your mouth as you take in a property’s sprawling grounds for the first time.
Donnington & Co on the outskirts of Newbury certainly fits the description for such a staycation, set among Berkshire’s rolling countryside with 111 rooms. Long celebrated for its tranquil spa and pristine golf facilities by locals and guests alike, its velvety grounds are as beautiful as the newly-revamped interiors within.
Formerly known as Donnington Valley Hotel & Spa, the property has recently undergone a refreshed brand identity. The extensive project (with more to come) aims to unite every element that the venue has grown to offer since its 1992 inception; the hotel itself, the spa, the 18-hole golf course, restaurant Press, The HangOut, and The Post, a separate elegant venue curated for weddings and events, bringing these segments together to conjure a sleekly cohesive 360 degree experience for guests.
The elegant makeover begins with the reimagined main reception and lobby, which in the pre-lunch hours, feels as much as a co-working space as it does a leisurely hangout. I wander upstairs to find laptops propped up on every other table and groups of people discussing evidently important matters over one of Donnington & Co’s frothy cappuccinos, served in sleekly comfortable surroundings.
With relaxing perches a plenty, beautiful wooden decor and soft grey meets copper colour schemes across the split-level space, it’s easy to sink into these suave surroundings for a few hours, whether working or simply chatting with friends. But of course, there’s so much more to discover here than just laptop action and gossip.
The Food & Drink
Main meals are served in Press, the hotel’s signature restaurant where newly-revamped dining comes with a focus on British indulgence, delivered with an emphasis on both quality of ingredients and well-trained staff. With an airy split-level space filled with intriguing decor like bookcases and foliage-topped dividers, you’d be hard-’pressed’ to go hungry once over the threshold.
On the menu, think hearty classics like the meaty Donnington Burger, a 10 Oz 28 Day Aged Sirloin Steak, Salmon Wrapped in Courgette and a host of tempting small plates. Carnivore, pescatarian or strictly veggie – there’s a plateful (and matching wine pairing) for everyone here.
Should you have room (or simply terrible willpower) there’s also an array of beautifully-presented desserts ranging from the traditional Sticky Toffee Pudding to a dainty Chocolate Brownie Mille-Feuille.
Breakfast is also served within these walls, presented as a buffet selection of hot Full English classics and continental-style essentials. There’s a separate a la carte menu for those feeling extra peckish – I thoroughly recommend trying an omelette for an ‘egg’cellently filling start to the day.
For something more casual, The HangOut opens seasonally as a laid-back outdoor terrace serving wood-fired pizzas, signature burgers and sharing boards – the ideal spot for a late summer’s evening with a glass of something delicious in hand.
The Room
The hotel’s roomy 111 bedrooms make an excellent place to rest a weary head. Room categories vary from Simple rooms and Spacious hideaways through to more indulgent Suites and Splendid Suites, where a life of lavishness awaits.
I stay in a Spacious, kitted out with neutral decor, honey-hued colour themes and soft lighting, all curated to leave a guest feeling restored and thoroughly comfortable by the time morning rolls around. This is aided by full-size TEMPLESPA toiletries awaiting in the expansive marble bathroom and the UK getaway essential – a branded bathrobe. Small details complete the space – fresh milk, bottled water, mini fridges and inviting lounging area (as if there isn’t enough of that already at this pampering hotel).
Don a robe at Donnington & Co.
Ideal for some TLC time, set aside a few hours to explore the vast wellness facilities at Donnington & Co, where a haven of spa tranquility awaits for both guests and health club members. With an 18 metre pool, plus steam room, sauna and loungers galore, settle into the slow-paced serenity of wellness and simply soak it all in. There’s an on-site gym too, for those that can’t travel sans cardio.
For something extra special, treat yourself to a wide treatment menu featuring TEMPLESPA and Germaine de Capuccini-led experiences. Choose from results-driven facials or deeply-restorative body therapies, such as the aroma therapy oil-led TEMPLESPA MY KINDA MASSAGE. By the time you tear yourself away from the post-pamper relaxation room and head back to the room, you’ll feel like you’re floating through the hallways.
Take Three: Things to try
1 Go for a morning run
Lace up your trainers and swap a gym session for pavement pounding instead. The nearby town of Newbury makes an excellent location for a morning 5km, whether pushing for a PB or simply plodding last night’s dessert off.
2 Try Sunday lunch with a soundtrack
If you love ambience with your Yorkshire puds, you’re in luck. Pay a visit to Press on Sundays for lunch with a more unusual side dish – a hefty serving of live local music. Local musicians Gareth Gwyn, David Ashworth, Patrick Foley (all with Club Kudo) and Sion Whiley (guitarist and vocals) will be serving up live acoustic tunes to accompany your Sunday lunch.
3 Enjoy a day trip to Blenheim Palace
Oxford UNESCO World Heritage Site and tourist attraction, Blenheim Palace, is just a short drive away. Not only a stupendous sight to admire, the property has recently launched an all-new autumnal visitor experience. Until the end of October, visitors can enjoy a scenic guided tractor trailer ride around the wider estate at Britain’s Greatest Palace – with plenty more awaiting within too. blenheimpalace.com
The Wordrobe Verdict
Turns out glow ups aren’t just limited to blow drys and flawless makeup. Following a significant transformation of its reception, lobby, restaurants and suites, Donnington Valley Hotel & Spa in Berkshire has stepped into its new chapter as the gleaming and all-encompassing Donnington & Co. Whether teeing off or tucking into something delicious, head to Berkshire and enjoy this multi-faceted stay for your next British break.
Make it happen
Where: Donnington & Co, Old Oxford Road, Donnington, Newbury, RG14 3AG
How: Find out more and make a booking via donnington.co
Words by Sophie Ritchie, editor
