The first country retreat from the Dorchester Collection, Coworth Park, has just celebrated it’s 10th year, so it’s high time you revisit this long-standing classic for your next spa break.
Cocooned in Berkshire parkland, it’s easy to forget the rural country retreat is just 45 minutes from the hubbub of London, and a convenient 20 minutes from Heathrow Airport. This sprawling wedding cake of a Georgian manor is warming and welcoming, with all the meticulous attention to detail you’d expect from a hotel heavyweight. It’s no wonder Prince Harry spent the night here before his nuptials.
With decadent suites and stellar restaurants, you won’t need much persuading to upgrade your spa day to an overnight sojourn.
THE WELLNESS
Sleek and architecturally mesmerising, the eco-spa is carved into the landscape. It is a vision of panoramic glass and timber with a roof garden of fragrant herbs, cultivated for use in treatments. The 8-room spa, with separate glossy studios for indulgent mani/pedis, is a haven of tranquility. Upon entry, the pristine white decor and soothing music lull you into an instant state of relaxation.
The spa has recently introduced ishga skincare to the impressive treatment roster, bringing the Hebridean Isles to the South of England. Founded on the transformative benefits of organic Scottish seaweed, for collagen production and soothing inflammation, the brand’s skincare products comprise the 60-minute ultra indulgent ishga Organic Rejuvenating Facial. Cleansing oils, exfoliants, and serums are gently applied to skin, followed by a rejuvenating mask harnessing the power of seaweed, coupled with a pleasingly soothing scalp massage. Effects are instant: you emerge glowing upon re-entry to the outside world.
Beyond the treatments, the spa boasts an impressive amethyst crystal-lined pool with underwater music, and luxurious loungers on the sun terrace with views of the parkland. A trip isn’t complete without a visit to the in-spa restaurant, The Spatisserie, to refuel. Purists can opt for a detox green juice or fresh mint tea, whilst hedonists can indulge in a glass of champagne.
THE GROUNDS
Craving a restorative walk in the bracing country air? Coworth Park fits the brief – immersed in 240 acres of enchanting Berkshire parkland, on the edge of Windsor Great Park.
Handily positioned golf buggies, with affable drivers, are ready to whisk you around the grounds at a moment’s notice. On foot is the best way to soak in the enchanting wild meadow fields blooming with flowers, and the various perfectly manicured gardens. Make use of the map, cleverly included in the room key, to grasp the scale of the grounds.
THE ROOMS
Decadent without any stuffiness, the décor takes inspiration from modern English country estate properties. There are 70 rooms in the hotel and Manor House comprises 30 suites painted in a chic, neutral palette. Interiors are luxe yet inviting: smoked wood floors are warmed with plush bespoke rugs and marble bathrooms boast cavernous freestanding copper baths that you may struggle to prise yourself away from. Wrought iron 4 poster beds sculpted to resemble trees give the feel of the outside pouring in, particularly as rooms offer sweeping viewings of the manicured gardens.
THE DINING
Under the culinary guidance of executive chef Adam Smith, Coworth Park offers a multitude of dining options. Michelin-starred Restaurant Coworth Park, offers a British stamp on fine dining. A mesmerising oak leaf chandelier adorns the ceiling whilst guests delicately nibble cherry custard pastries and perfectly poached eggs in the morning, and indulge in Cornish crab chased by Kentish lamb by night. For a more relaxed affair, The Barn offers elevated gastro pub vibes, against a cosy log burner, serving comforting dishes from truffle cheese toasties to melt-in-the-mouth pork belly.
The Bar is perfect for a night cap- whether a herbaceous cocktail or a dram from their extensive whiskey menu.
THE TO DO LIST
Country pursuits are a big draw: Coworth Park the only UK hotel to feature its own polo fields and the equestrian centre is the perfect opportunity for some horse riding. Croquet, tennis courts and cycling are available for guest too. Make the most of the great outdoors with a quintessentially British picnic hamper. The chefs can rustle one up for order with 4 hours notice to be enjoyed on the grounds or taken further afield into the countryside.
Any Questions or Tips to add?