LUX Xmas 2018

LUXLIFE MAGAZINE | 75 Xmas 2018 learned that the house has its own resident cat, who originally visited in search of food from the kitchens and swiftly moved in! Today he is renowned among the staff and regular guests and loves nothing more than to survey his beautiful kingdom and be spoiled rotten by the hotel’s staff. After being regaled with tales of the house cat, we were shown through to the decedent spa, which offers a range of treatments and facilities including an indoor heated pool, a sauna, fitness centre and trained therapists who offer a range of pampering solutions to suit every guest. A particular highlight was the jacuzzi, which is located half indoors and half outdoors, offering a truly decedent experience. Staff in the spa were very friendly. A lot of guests had booked a spa break which gave them an overnight stay, afternoon tea, spa treatment and facilities and dinner, and all of the guests we interacted with were full of praise for the staff and the treatment offering. After this we had a walk around the gardens, where we were able to drink in the sights of this stunning natural wonder. The gardens are beautifully cultivated and feature an array of glorious plants and trees, as well as sweeping lawns. To finish a great day, in the evening we ate in Brookes Restaurant, where the food surpassed all expectations. I had a country terrine to start, which was fresh and vibrant. For our main meal I had the duck and my husband had pork, both of which were cooked to perfection and superbly paired with an array of accompaniments. We then both had the chocolate brownie with pistachio crumb and ice-cream and felt well and truly spoiled. Our eyes were too big for our bellies when it came to the beautiful cheeseboard, which was stocked with an array of delicacies, and as such the kindly staff took this up to our room so we could indulge whilst we relaxed and reclined in the splendour of this beautiful, historical establishment. The following morning, we had the buffet breakfast where you could have anything from cereals and fruit, to a full English or kippers. There was a good variety of hot breakfasts, giving us ample choice. After a sumptuous breakfast we returned to the Spa where I had an Elemis Facial which lasted around 40 minutes, the products made my face feel lovely and I could have lay there all day. Having enjoyed an incredible experience staying in the palatial surroundings of this glorious Queen Anne mansion, we left with fond memories which will stay with us for many years to come! If you would like to book your stay in this unique corner of Middle England, please visit their website: https://www.theelmshotel.co.uk/