A property brimming with both character and class, Sophie Ritchie shares why the Grade I listed Hawkstone Hall in Shropshire is a slice of hedonistic history mingled with gourmand grandeur
A former religious centre turned majestic hotel, Hawkstone Hall awaits its guests at the end of a lengthy winding drive through thick woodland and manicured golf lawns.
Sitting grandly before its visitors, this northern 18th century country mansion commands attention from all angles with its beautiful fresco-decked entrance and impressive surrounding grounds.
Any neighbours are nowhere to be seen. With 88 expansive acres of magnificent gardens (hence the apparently never-ending traverse to reach its doors) this Grade I listed property sits alone and regal in the Shropshire countryside.
Opened in spring 2019 after an extensive renovation, a mere 37 rooms await within its Georgian walls. Quietly regal, this elegant hotel is ideal for the traveler seeking a more intimate stay.
Walk though the entrance to find the usual hotel hustle and bustle replaced with the gentle sounds of jazz music, whilst guests complete the check-in process with a welcoming glass of bubbles.
The Room
The bedrooms are snug and cozy, conjuring the feel of residing in an Austen romance novel with classic furnishings and views that stretch across the Shropshire countryside and towards the Welsh valleys. Darcy or no Darcy, the soft colour schemes are a welcome sight after a long journey t’up north.
Located in the Orangery Wing, these 25 rooms come with king-size beds, fluffy robes, powerful rain showers, tea, coffee and a pampering array of Elemis toiletries. Spritz the pillow with a bedside bottle of Quiet Mind Pillow Spray and settle in for a night of graceful slumber.
For those looking to turn the extravagance up a notch, Hawkstone Hall also offers 12 luxurious suites (each named after a different artist) with added benefits of cast-iron bath tubs, palatial bathrooms and enviable Nespresso machines.
The Dining
Meals here are an experience in themselves, thanks to The Saloon restaurant’s impressively high ceilings, enormous arched windows and collection of oil paintings that display key figures from Hawkstone Hall’s 550-year-old past peering down at diners.
Located in one of the house’s oldest sections, its Georgian interiors invite foodies to bask in serious splendour when picking up a knife and fork.
It also comes with an exclusive ambience. With only a handful of other guests sampling the locally-sourced spreads at dinner time, The Saloon is perfect for a romantic meal for two – it’s hard not to fall for the charms of its candlelit tables, engraved fireplaces and hedonistic furnishings.
Breakfast is also served under its gilded ceilings, with a mix of poached eggs on toast, the full fry-up or delicately-arranged fruit platters.
Things to try:
1 Afternoon tea treats
Served in the grandiose surrounds of The Saloon, guests can try both traditional and ‘guilt-free’ afternoon teas. Whether you’re looking to sink your teeth into a buttery scone or keep it sin-free with a nutritiously-inspired spread, you’re bound to enjoy this special experience.
2 Fall for The Follies
Just a short minute drive away, don your Hunters and head to Hawkstone Follies. Set in 100 acres of parkland, The Follies is a range of dramatic and rugged natural sandstone hills filled with gullies, caves, towers and bridges that demand to be explored. https:/hawkstoneparkfollies.co.uk
3 Personal butler perks
Someone call Jeeves! As a popular idyllic wedding venue, all brides-to-be getting married here are treated to their own private butler on both the night before and the big day itself.
The Wordrobe Verdict
Brimming with both character and class, Hawkstone Hall is a slice of hedonistic history mingled with gourmand grandeur.
Dining within its Grade I listed walls will have you living like an aristocrat, whilst spending the night will leave you floating back to reality. With friendly staff, cozy rooms and an never-ending playground of grounds to discover, it’s time to head north for this luxe UK escape.
Make it happen
Where: Hawkstone Hall & Gardens, Weston. Shrewsbury, SY4 5UZ
Getting there: Hawkstone Hall is roughly a 3.5hr drive from London or a 2.5hour train journey.
How: Rooms from £200 per night. To find out more and make a booking, please click here or phone : 01630 685242.
Hotel review by Sophie Ritchie, Editor.
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