Why go abroad when the UK itself has some breathtakingly beautiful places, ideal for escaping with your partner for a sneaky premoon or minimoon before jetting off somewhere exotic later in the year.
Horwood House in Buckinghamshire is the ideal place for this. Centrally located in the village of Little Horwood, this sprawling Manor House is set within 38 acres and surrounded by the lush Pytheas Gardens and serene lakes, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everydaylife.
As you approach down the picturesque tree-lined driveway, this stunning Grade II listed Manor House built in 1911, oozes Lady of The Manor country chic. Having recently undergone a 6-million-pound renovation it is acutely evident throughout the hotel that its heritage has been carefully preserved through a mood enhancing palette of neutral and earthy tones and a fusion of botanical prints, creating a distinctive style and calming ambience.
There are more than 150 rooms and suites in the main hotel and 3 Suites in The Manor House. We were lucky enough to be staying in one of the Manor House suites, the Verney Suite, a pure indulgence of stylish sophistication.
The suite has separate rooms, a bedroom and living/dining room both with largeoriginal stone leaded bay windows that look out onto sweeping views of the lily pond and surrounding gardens. Designed with ‘country chic’ in mind, the calming palette of neutral earthy colours continue on the walls, with the furniture fusing modern and contemporary vibes, gold hues along with botanical touches and original features.
Walk through the imposing bedroom into the bathroom, an example of Art Deco opulence at its best. Gold taps, scallop tiles and marble splash-backs, along with a walk-in rain shower, twin sinks (of course), fluffy bathrobes and slippers, make this suite the most perfect place for a little romance.
The Manor House itself is brimming with grand features that include exquisite chandeliers, a sweeping staircase and stone fireplaces,blending classic styling with modern luxury. Although the Manor House has three suites we were the only people staying in one so it felt like we were most definitely Lord and Lady of our very own Manor House.
Dinner is served in Harry’s Bar & Kitchen a contemporary and stylish restaurant, with an eclectic mix of informal seating, botanical touches and a relaxed atmosphere.
We began our dining experience with Kiln Roasted Smoked Salmon Fish Cake served with fennel jam, the flavours in this were a perfect combination as were the tastes and textures in the Coal Roasted Beetroot served with a goat’s cheese mousse and maple walnuts, washed down effortlessly with a glass of Vendange White Zinfandel.
The chef here is from Egypt and having visited Egypt many times I opted for the authentic Pomegranate Glazed Grilled Chicken on onion flat bread alongside a fennel salad. Colourfully presented, this dish reflected Egyptian flavours effortlessly and was a mouth-wateringly delicious treat for the taste buds.
Hubbie’s main was a 10oz Aged Rump Steak topped with a Tiger Prawn, cooked to perfection this literally melted in the mouth.
I decided to end the evening with a Paris-Brest with Vanilla Crème Diplomat, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Hubbie opted for the Rum Roasted Pineapple Brioche served with coconut marshmallow ice cream, absolutely delicious and the perfect way to end a delightful dining experience.
Suitably full from some fabulous food, the Manor House Suite was calling us for a nightcap and a blissful night’s sleep.
Next morning after breakfast we set off to explore the idyllic grounds that include formal gardens, a Lilypond, a secret garden and woodlands. The grounds are a significant part of the Horwood experience, and another example of its heritage.
Worn out from all the exploring it was time for a little pampering in The H Spa, where botanicals and nature are at the forefront once again, a tranquil haven, perfect for a swim, unwinding in the sauna or steam room or just relaxing on a lounger by the pool, what more could you want?
Well maybe a facial! Tempted by the extensive menu of treatments, I indulged in a Vinosource Hydrating & Nourishing Facial that includes a massage with fresh grapes followed by a recovery essential oil massage to soothe my tired skin. Dimmed lights, beautiful aromas and soothing music add to the whole ambience of peace and tranquillity.
Horwood House is a mix of historic touches and modern luxuries, a peaceful and calming haven away from all the hustle and bustle of wedding prep, honeymoon planning or post wedding blues. A romantic retreat just for the two of you, where you can hear the cow’s moo and the birds sing and you can do as much or as little as you want in your own little Manor House hideaway.
BOOK IT
Prices start from £489 per night including breakfast in a Manor Suite.
For more information or to book, visit www.horwoodhouse.co.uk
