When the soundtrack of the city becomes too loud and distracting, we all need to escape and regroup, both mentally and physically.
The beautiful thing is that the sanctuary that is The Grove is just 18 miles and a short train journey from the bustle of London’s street – the perfect and convenient place to get away from it all.
The former home of the Earls of Clarendon, the luxurious five-star hotel has a rich history dating back to the 1500s. It’s set in 300 beautiful verdant acres of woodland, ponds and hedgerows, manicured gardens, emerald green lawns, and vibrant floral displays. There’s a championship golf course, a spectacular outdoor pool with a separate beach area, four restaurants, and the indulgent Sequoia spa (complete with an indoor pool), named after the magnificent trees that pepper the estate.
Everything we need for a complete getaway and the opportunity to relax and unwind.
We stayed in a junior suite with double windows overlooking the stunning gardens and terrace. The suites are all individually styled by Martin Hubert Design to make the most of the elegant Georgian features and fabulous bucolic views. We loved the large seating area, the plush bed with its crisp linen and pillows piled high, and the luxurious marble bathroom with the beckoning bath at its centrepiece. The suite of dreams.
Our days started with early morning ambles along the country paths through the estate, breathing in the freshest of air and absorbing the birdsong – the perfect way to build up an appetite for the sumptuous breakfast buffet. There are plenty of spaces for post-breakfast relaxation before heading to the Sequoia spa for a dip in the indoor pool with its iconic black mosaic tiling. Excercised and refreshed, we head for calming B Vibrant Ritual massages, one of the signature treatments, using products from the luxurious Bamford range. Pure heaven.
There are also plenty of foodie ways to indulge body and soul at The Grove. We tuck into lunch al fresco at The Stable overlooking the putting green, with its menu offering a modern take on Great British classics. The seasonal ingredients couldn’t be more local, having been grown in the walled kitchen garden on site.
For dinner, there’s The Glasshouse, possibly the most magnificent buffet I’ve ever seen with its incredible selection of internationally inspired food stations. Or for an authentic taste of India, Madhu’s in the heart of the mansion is famous for its banquets. And with all that exercising in the fresh country air, we have the perfect excuse to dine in pleasure. And all just a 14-minute train journey from London Euston. Rejuvenation and restoration has never been easier. The Grove is a member of The Leading Hotels which has over 400 independent luxury hotels in its portfolio.
Words by Sandy Cadiz-Smith
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