CELEBRITY STYLE SPY: See all the latest celeb photos

Whatley Manor Hotel and Spa

By Nicole Smallwood on Wednesday 8 July 2009

Print
Share
Comment

Whatley Manor - Travel - Marie Claire

On the doorstep of the Cotswolds, ideally-situated for Bath and Bristol dwellers and only an hour from London lies what can only be described as a little piece of heaven.

Whatley Manor Hotel and Spa, a restored private manor house nestled in 12 acres of traditional English gardens, oozes serenity and instantly transports you from the hustle and bustle thanks to its enormous sense of space.

With a modest, but exclusive, 23 rooms, all with amazing views across the countryside, whichever suite you are given, it won’t fail to impress. Blending antique décor with contemporary design, I roamed around barefoot thanks to the underfloor heating and enjoyed the powerful aroma of lavender, growing in boxes beneath the bay windows.

While away the hours by the calming water features dotted throughout the grounds and be sure to relax in the hammock which neighbours the beautiful water lily pond.

I could happily have meandered through the grounds all day but the hotel’s renowned spa was calling me.

The Aquarius Spa is the only La Praire five star ‘Art of Beauty’ centre outside of London. These centres are only found in the most exclusive spas around the world and are a sign of outstanding quality.

Arranged into a series of thermal cabin treatment rooms, my highlight was the hydrotherapy pool, which winds outside the spa into the open air, and is perfectly heated so you can bear the brunt of the temperamental British weather.

Featuring a VIP suit, as well as spa signatures including a workout studio, the good news is that day visitors are welcomed, so you can always treat yourself to a mini blow-out, rather than checking in for the night.

We spent a very civilised evening watching the sun go down with a glass of wine and canapés, then tucked into an exquisite meal at the hotel’s Michelin-starred In The Dining Room restaurant.

This is the ultimate treat for a seriously special occasion and I can’t recommend you start putting the pennies away enough for an indulgence you’ll never forget.

Whatley Manor, Easton Grey, Malmesbury Whiltshire, SN16 ORB
www.whatleymanor.com Tel: 00440 1666 822 888