Until about the last decade or so, there were very few hotels in the UK that I’ve stayed in which gave me the wow factor. London certainly has some of the best hotels in the UK, collectively. But the rest of the UK just hadn’t quite caught up at that time with the rest of the world in terms of luxury hotels, then in the last ten years or so, this country really upped its game and the world started to notice. The UK hotel scene is still evolving, customers are demanding even more and each year sees a new hotel with a new level of luxury opening – or an established one is having to undergo major refurbishment to keep up with the new competition. Because at the end of the day, who doesn’t want a private butler, a bath the size of a small swimming pool or a dining room dripping in chandeliers? I know I do.
One hotel which has been on my visit list for longer than I can remember is Coworth Park and recently I finally got to experience it. It’s indulgent, sophisticated, luxurious and has managed to blend in with the outdoors so seamlessly. Opened in 2010 and part of the Dorchester Collection group of properties, the hotel is located in the beautiful Ascot countryside and just a short hours drive from London (around £50 in a Uber). We turned into the gate, drove up the long winding road and arrived to what would be a magical overnight stay.
Our room wasn’t quite ready when we arrived (it was still around 11am) but it meant for a good opportunity to explore the hotel and grounds here which are stunning and full of art at every turn. There are 240 acres here which give you plenty of space to unwind and relax in, or for the more adventurous there are a wealth of activities to take part in.
There’s an edible garden utilised by executive chef Adam Smith. Perfumed Summer meadow. Tranquil lake (home to a resident swan named Chukka). Bronze statues by local artist Carol Peace and of course what this hotel is most known for, all things equestrian – with eight horses on site.
After exploring those gorgeous grounds, we got a phone call to say our room was ready. A speedy check-in, bags whisked away to our room and we climbed the large spiral staircase up to our room on the top floor. I’ve got a slight staircase obsession and will always take it over the lift, particularly if there’s a good photo opportunity like there was here.
We were staying in one of the hotels junior suites located in the main mansion-house and as far as junior suites go, this was definitely on the larger side. A private hallway entrance, huge bathroom and spacious bedroom with seating area. For anyone looking to book this room, ask for the Ascot Suite. It’s around 67m²/725ft² of pure luxury and with a bed so soft you’ll struggle to wake up from (so order breakfast in bed).
All suites come with fresh flowers as standard, but the hotel very kindly gifted us a bottle of Champagne which was perfect for us to enjoy as our pre-dinner drinks or sipping on whilst soaking in the gorgeous copper bath.
The best feature of our room was without a doubt the freestanding copper bathtub. It was absolute bliss to soak in and tuck into a glass of Champagne before dinner. I also really loved the Mitchell and Peach spa products in the room too. Instead of the usual body product offerings, it was great to see a slightly different range from a quality, British body care producer. If a bath isn’t your thing, there’s also an excellent shower room, filled with more of those lovely body products.
Once you’ve unpacked and settled in, head down to one of the many lounges and order a cocktail or light afternoon lunch. The way the communal rooms are positioned here means for some great people watching spots. I especially loved sitting in the main lounge across reception watching everyone checking in and out. The room during warmer months also opens up onto the garden.
The Bar at Coworth Park is another lovely little spot and perfect for a quick snack or your favourite tipple. We ordered a couple of glasses of our favourite white wine and what might be the most delicious sandwich ever. Honey-roast ham and Tunworth melt with dill pickle. A lifetime on the hips, but worth every bite.
During the evening, the place to be is the Drawing Room. Designed to represent the winter months, the Drawing Room is a gorgeously refined space. There’s a conservatory which is perfect for those summer months, or take to the cosy armchairs in the main room next to the roaring fireplaces – it’s a heavenly Winter retreat. During the day you can enjoy afternoon tea here and during the evening, cocktails with the sounds of a live pianist in the background.
The Restaurant at Coworth Park is what really sets this hotel apart and is truly magical. A one Michelin starred restaurant which is looked after by head chef Adam Smith. It was one of my 2019 restaurant highlights and you really can’t stay here without experiencing it. Read my full review of Restaurant Coworth Park HERE.
The next morning we woke up early and took ourselves off to the spa, housed in a separate building a few seconds walk from the main mansion. It’s stunning. I’m huge spa fan and this felt really high-end. Everything you need to enjoy he facilities is here and so you really need to bring little with you. Soft and fluffy robes, excellent quality spa slippers and grooming products galore.
My only disappointment was forgetting my gym equipment as the gym downstairs next to the pool looked very well equipped. Thankfully, the swimming pool, lined with large crystals and complete with underwater music is pure peace and tranquility and after long swim, followed by the steam room and experience showers.
After the stunning meal we had the night before, I didn’t quite have room for everything on offer at breakfast so I ordered a small selection of freshly baked pastries, coffee and yoghurt. The pastries were absolutely stunning and one croissant will have you consuming the entire bowl. Each pastry was so light, flaky and if ever a croissant could be awarded a Michelin star – it would no doubt be these. On my next visit I’ll have to make sure I divulge into this breakfast menu a little further.
I’m sure you can already guess, but Coworth Park for me was one of my 2019 highlights and I’d love to return in the near future. The food and service are what really makes this property special, but the rooms and the hotel are what will keep you coming back for more. From the moment you walk through those doors, every single little luxury you crave for is attended too and any expectation you have will most definitely be surpassed. Living in London, I’ve never really given much time to the Dorchester Collection (I’ve no idea why), but that will certainly be changing in the near future and I can’t wait to create even more #DCMoments.
Wow! What a stunning hotel, everything looks incredible and very luxurious!