On the fringes of the Cotswolds, in a small village called Clanfield, you’ll find The Double Red Duke.
This cosy, unassuming bolthole, formerly an inn called the Cotswold Plough, was acquired in 2020 by Georgie and Sam Pearman, as part of their Country Creatures group. Following a major revamp, The Double Red Duke opened to much acclaim. We checked in to check it out for ourselves.
The Vibe
Laidback with a focus on life’s simple luxuries. Downtime is paramount here; spaces are created to provide ample opportunity for relaxation – think open fires, sinkable sofas, and cosy reading nooks.
Photography by We The Food Snobs
Weather permitting, unwind with a drink at the front of the property under a Calypso-hued stripe umbrella on the sun terrace – you are on your holidays after all!
The Rooms
Photography by We The Food Snobs
Choose from cosy, medium, large, and family rooms. We’d spring for one of the large rooms if you can – just wait until you see the split-level bathrooms – ours, Room 15, was decked out in a palette of forest green and Colgate white. Beautiful tiles, large tubs, and shower facilities (which are at adjacent ends of the upper floor) are a real draw, stocked with lovely lotions and potions – 100 Acres lavender and camomile body lotion and 100 Acres rose and lavender bubble bath – as well as bath salts and cosy robes to wrap up in post-soak. Back on the lower level, panelled walls, old beam ceilings, statement wallpaper, and heavy drapes great guests. Comfort is truly king here – note the Richard Hayworth linens and chunky wool throws draped along the bed. For those travelling with pets, across the property six of the rooms (the garden rooms) can accommodate furry companions at a charge of £25 charge per animal per night.
Photography by We The Food Snobs
The Little Extras
Did you forget something? Dial ‘0’ for reception to order a toothbrush kit (though it’s on the costlier side), a USB charging kit (£8), manicure kit (£10), and more…
Handmade chocolate chip and macadamia cookies (and tea making facilities) are presented in the room on arrival.
Parking is free of charge.
For a little R&R, pay a visit to DRD’s specially designed Shepherds Hut, where their treatment room is located. Choose from a variety of treatments – from massages to facials – as your mood and needs dictate.
The Food + Drink
Breakfast is from 7.30AM until 10AM in the bar. A continental buffet spanning granola, eggs, fruit, pastries, and preserves is offered complimentary with cooked breakfast options available at an additional charge. The Full English Breakfast and the crushed avocado with poached egg on Blakes sourdough are lip-smackingly good. There’s also a rather elaborate hot-chocolate menu to peruse. Choose from cinnamon, peppermint, chai, and more for £4.50 a mug.
Photography by We The Food Snobs
Lunch is served from 12–2.30PM (and until 3PM on Sundays); here, Sunday lunch is all about a great roast. If you’re feeling a little peckish during the day, choose from their pub grub menu which encompasses oysters, chickpea fritters, burgers, pizzas, and more.
Photography by We The Food Snobs
Dinner is served from 6-9PM (extending to 9.30PM on Friday and Saturday). Opt for a seat at the chef’s table – positioned at the counter – to be right in the action. Food here is very good – the flat bread starter (our favourite was the wood-fired aubergine with miso dip and sesame) blew us away, and the burrata served with capers and golden raisins was heaven doused in olive oil. After starting so strong, tactical ordering is required for mains to avoid disappointment. Go simple with fish and chips or a hearty steak cut with a side of peppercorn sauce and round things off with a comforting blackberry, apple, and salted oat crumble for pud.
The To-Do List
Only a short drive to Kingham, a visit Daylesford and The White Rabbit should certainly be on your to-do list. Try Bicester for a spot of shopping, or Blenheim Palace for a dose of culture.
Nearby Cotswold villages include: Bampton, Stow-On-The-Wold, Langford, Ramsden, Burford, and Lechlade. Ask reception for a map of their favourite walks, if deciding where to venture is proving a challenge.
Any Questions or Tips to add?