One of our favorite England Getaways is at a luxury country house in Berkshire, just west of London.
This county is home to Windsor Castle, one of the largest Royal Residences in the World, and holds one of the largest sheep fairs in the country. The River Thames winds its way through Berkshire near Cliveden House, where we stayed for 24 hours.
Who stays here? Londoners breaking away from city life, families celebrating the holidays, corporate retreats looking for a unique place to mind-meld. Couples are entranced on romantic escapes here and many choose this estate for their destination weddings. It is a perfect destination for any England getaway.
Within 30 mins from Heathrow, we entered the gates at Cliveden and landed into a fairy tale land. Perched high above the Thames with views of the surrounding Berkshire countryside, Cliveden seems too grand to be called a ‘house’.
But after visiting with General Manager Francisco Macedo, I could understand why this is part of the name. He shared that “Our wish is to make every guest feel like this is their home, and they’re here for a royal vacation. With a history of over 350 years worth of glamour and intrigue, Cliveden Estate is a place of exquisite enchantment to be experienced by everyone who visits.”
There are tales and many stories about Cliveden’s history and its residents from dukes, earls, royalty to students from Stanford University, California. Guests who stay at this Relais & Chateaux property also have indelible memories from their one-of-a-kind stay, including brides who choose Cliveden for their destination wedding.
Sharing some highlights from our stay…
*Click here for photos on the Global Adventuress Instagram account*
Rooms & Suites
There are 48 rooms at Cliveden and each one is unique. We stayed in the Sutherland Suite that looked out to the Duke’s Garden. The Suite is decorated with classic antiques, fireplace, high ceilings and exquisite features including a handmade king size bed and spacious bathroom.
Many brides book the Lady Astor Suite on the upper floor of the house with a private terrace that overlooks the Parterre and its manicured gardens. Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, stayed at Cliveden House the night before she married Prince Harry, and we think she might have stayed in this room!
Dining
- Spa Kitchen – after a spa treatment, order a healthy light lunch and freshly squeezed juices at the Spa Kitchen. We shared an amazing salmon dish accompanied with chickpeas and a squash, feta salad. So many amazing dishes to try during your England Getaway.
- Pre and Post Dinner Drinks in the Library – one of our favorite rooms in the house was the library. We played a midnight game of charades in the grand living room with other hotel guests. Once you check in, you’ll see how easy it feels like your own home.
- Cliveden Dining Room – Executive Chef Paul O’Neill presents dishes like Black Truffle Risotto, Tuna Carpaccio, Beef Wellington and Double Cheese souffles. Perfectly paired with fine wines from around the world, this memorable dinner was divine.
Breakfast is also served in the dining room – traditional English breakfast, omelets, porridge or a breakfast buffet medley of fruits, cheeses, meats, salads, bread and muffin basket. Tip! Reserve a table near the windows that look out to the beautiful gardens.
Spa
Arrive early to enjoy the indoor and outdoor pools, elegant lounge area that looks out to the spa courtyard. I settled in to my lounge chair before my 60-minute treatment and relished every blissful moment.
Don’t Miss! The OSKIA revitalizing facial.
Explore
Walk the Cliveden Estate and 376-acres of woodlands that are maintained by the National Trust and open to the public. There are miles of winding trails, tree-lined avenues and riverside paths to explore. Pick up a walking guide and seek out the flint grotto or the giant sequoia ring. There’s also a Yew Tree Maze Garden and Water Garden.
Cliveden’s Head Gardener John Fleming creates dramatic floral bedding each spring and summer.
Don’t Miss! Book a boat outing along the Thames with a champagne toast. Available for guests at Cliveden House– a perfect activity during your England Getaway!
Good to note: Cliveden House is open to the public for short guided tours on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays between March to October.
Submerse yourself in royal history at the Cliveden House. Whether you stay 1 night or a few days, and get ready for pure indulgence.
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- A Royal Treat! Visiting Highclere Castle, “Downton Abbey”
Acknowledgments: Global Adventuress thanks the Cliveden House for hosting us during our stay.
