Mental Health UK says that over 30% of us suffer with poor sleep quality. One in five people say they aren’t getting enough sleep and 74% of adults reporting a decline is sleep quality over the past 12 months alone due to work stresses, family stresses and the general day to day of modern living, its easy to see why most of us feel tired and drained.
So, when I was asked to travel to The Cottage in Wood in Great Malvern to try their “Dream Big Package” I was more than happy to take the opportunity. What better way to recharge the batteries than to spend a night in luxurious surroundings with truly an outstanding meal in the peace and tranquillity of the British countryside?
The Cottage in the Wood sits high above Malvern secluded within eight acres of woodland in what is quite possibly one of the country’s best-kept secrets. The Malvern’s may not be as famous as the neighbouring Cotswolds but are equally as beautiful.
The hotel boasts 32 bright spacious rooms across two beautiful buildings: the Main House and Beech Cottage. The rooms are varied in size and amenities and of course, cost. You can choose from Cosy, Classic, Very Good, Great and Best.
On this occasion I went all out with a ‘Best’ room which enjoyed panoramic views across the stunning Severn Valley which could even be enjoyed whilst relaxing on the king-size bed.
I particularly loved the record player complete with a selection of mellowing vinyl records – a really unique and enjoyable detail!
The bathroom boasts a free-standing roll-top bath complete with a selection of luxury bath oils.
A soak was definitely in order after the long drive down from Yorkshire and I found myself relaxing to the point that I could have easily missed my dinner reservation!
In addition to this, the package also had the added luxuries of a freshly laundered silk pillowcase and sleep kit containing ear plugs, a reusable eye mask and a Lavender, yarrow and chamomile pillow spray, all conducive to getting a great night’s sleep.
But before that there was the small matter of the 7-course tasting menu served in the superb 1919 restaurant. The menu, created by head chef Rob Mason, made the tiring business of selecting what to eat from a mouthwatering menu so much easier thereby reducing stress levels even further (they really have thought of everything).
As with everything else in the hotel, the 1919 Restaurant and Lounge is relaxed, friendly and social. No formality and everything at your own pace. The Cottage in the Wood has an impressive selection of wines to accompany your meal available by the glass or bottle. I would recommend the wine flight for the tasting menu – but the restaurant’s experts are happy to advise.
The restaurant naturally enjoys unparalleled views across the valley.
There was nothing on this menu that I wouldn’t recommend. As Rob himself says “It’s all about letting the ingredients do the talking.” And the ingredients talk loudly.
The entire menu is truly outstanding. And don’t be fooled by the word “taster” either. I must say I was beginning to struggle by the time we got to the desserts (yes plural).
Amongst my favourite dishes were the Cornish crab, Avocado, Verjus Melon and Chilli and The Roasted Fillet of Hereford Beef, Slow Braised Cheek, Black Garlic Emulsion and Celeriac with Maderia and Truffle Sauce. And if you have a sweet tooth, you will not be disappointed, there is plenty to go at!
And so to bed for what turned out to be one of the best night’s sleep I’d had in a very long time.
The following morning it was back to 1919 Restaurant again for a full English Breakfast. The perfect way to set up for a walk through the nine miles of hills that surround the hotel encompassing beautifully quaint villages and historical landmarks. Sadly, I would not have time for this as the long drive back home was on the itinerary. Not walking in these hills was my only regret during my stay.
I left feeling rested and recharged. Now, this may have been the room, the beautifully prepared food or the Old Fashioned I had as a nightcap. But I think it was a combination of all these things, created by Nick Davies and all his incredible staff at the Cottage in the Wood.
Words by Dan Riley
The Cottage in the Wood Hotel & Restaurant
Holywell Rd, Malvern Wells, Malvern WR14 4LG, United Kingdom
