A 14th century house tucked away in the picturesque village of Castle Combe, The Manor House is a turret-topped hotel straight out of a romance novel, says Sophie Ritchie
A 14th century house tucked away in the picturesque village of Castle Combe, The Manor House is a turret-topped hotel straight out of a romance novel.
The 50 rooms offer character-rich comfort, the expansive grounds are immaculate and the dishes awaiting within its Michelin-starred restaurant are rather spectacular indeed.
An ideal spot for a stay of Cotswolds enchantment, Sophie Ritchie shares why The Manor House should be the next luxury venue ticked off on your UK escapes list.
The Venue
Driving up to The Manor House is an experience in itself. Basking in the final sun rays of summer, it sits majestic at the end of a long drive – its foliage-covered front and huge windows emulating the internal feel of both grandeur and romantic elegance.
The swathed sea of green and honey stone walls are juxtaposed by a bright British flag, which waves me an airborne welcome as the tyres of my car roll past to the carpark.
Stepping inside, I wander through to find the creaky reception with wood-panelled walls and an awaiting duo of courteous staff.
After friendly chitchat and a speedy check-in, they hand me a weighted key to my abode for the night – a separate building found in the property’s idyllic Mews Cottages.
The Room
Each of the 50 handsome bedrooms come with an individual design, whether that be in the Main House or Mews Cottages. Some boast stained glass windows and swanky four-poster beds, others are furnished with gigantic bath tubs and beautiful patterned arm chairs.
My own is an incredible two-storey ‘cottage’ split into a downstairs living room and upstairs bedroom and bathroom. The country chic space feels both palatial and cozy at the same time, overlooking a little lane filled with walkers and curious tourists exploring Castle Combe.
With an enormous bed, huge TVs, welcoming bottle of Ridgview sparkling wine and stylish artwork, this feels far more like a house than a hotel room.
Luxury details complete the space; a Nespresso machine complete with a small chest of coffee capsules; luxe Exclusive toiletries and even my very own pillow menu. There’s also a number of local magazines scattered about – perfect for the foodies seeking the best nearby dining experiences or attractions.
The Dining
Luckily, exceptional dining is only a stone’s throw away. Taking its name from the river that runs through the hotel grounds, Michelin-starred The Bybrook offers platefuls of artful cuisine devised by Executive Chef Robert Potter.
The tasting menus are delicately supreme, but the a la carte is just as worthwhile for those that love local ingredients and creative flavour. Difficult dietary requirements? Fear not, vegans and celiacs – you’ll enjoy a meal that’s just as delicious.
The most important meal of the day, breakfast at The Manor House is well-worth getting up for. Bring your bowls to the tasteful buffet or order a la carte for a wide selection of egg dishes and hearty starts to your day.
On Sundays, the restaurant also offers a three-course Sunday lunch – the perfect prize for a morning spent trekking the local countryside walks or practicing your backswing on the award-winning golfing grounds.
The Wordrobe Verdict
A single night’s slumber at The Manor House will leave you feeling rather noble indeed. The building’s romantic beauty is impressive but it’s the team of friendly staff that bring this hotel to life, catering to every guest’s whim with well-trained ease.
With gourmet dishes and grandeur galore, book a room at The Manor House for a Cotswolds escape with a deliciously esculent edge.
Make it happen
Where: Castle Combe, Chippenham SN14 7HX
How: Click here or phone 01249 782206 to make a booking.
Words by Sophie Ritchie, editor.
