As author of British Boutique Hotels and London Hotels, Gina Jackson knows more than most when it comes to luxurious UK-based stays. Here, the travel writer and hotel expert returns to one of her all-time Cotswolds favourites – Foxhill Manor – as the quirkily cool country pad celebrates its 10th anniversary.
THE LOWDOWN
Situated on the sprawling Farncombe Estate, this private house hotel has a refreshing ‘no rules’ policy that guests are unlikely to experience elsewhere. Formality and stiff-upper-lipness are eschewed in favour of relaxed, extremely personalised service. There’s an unspoken understanding here that luxury at its best is supremely unpretentious and individually tailored to every guest. Celebrating its 10 year anniversary, it’s no wonder that Foxhill Manor has amassed a loyal legion of guests who are continually welcomed back like long-lost friends.
SET THE SCENE…
Rolling hills and verdant views over the north Cotswolds can be spied from every vantage point. Road trippers will trundle along a sweeping drive to reach the hotel — the estate is no less than 500 acres — passing by sister properties Dormy House and The Fish along the way.
STYLE POINTS?
Enclosed within a bucolic bend, and cocooned by immaculately pruned gardens, the toffee-coloured mansion dates back to 1909. Despite its grand façade, interiors are relaxed and contemporary: guests loll back in the cosy drawing room, and sashay between the bar, cinema, and pantry.
TELL US ABOUT THE ROOMS…
Eight generous pads (three of which are suites) are each named after various tree types found within the estate. Expect elegant colour schemes, plush furnishings, and plenty of space to spread out, with an individual quirk to be found in each room: the Chestnut bedroom features its own dining table, and the Oak suite wows with its handsome four-poster. Smart TVs, walk-in showers, and bathtubs big enough to swim laps in are a guarantee in every hideaway.
THE FOOD & DRINK?
Guests will need to roll themselves home upon their departure: expect to be plied with treats from the moment you enter. Pour yourself a drink from the cocktail cabinet in the drawing room, or nibble on freshly baked scones at all times of day. Sleepovers here begin with a friendly chat with the head chef, where you’ll be encouraged to concoct your own dinner menu based on the seasonal ingredients foraged that morning — opt for fancy three-course meals, or more casual, comforting suppers. Meals are served whenever and wherever you’d like, whether that’s dinner in the cinema, or breakfast in bed. Consider booking the ‘Full Fox’ rate, which guarantees unlimited raiding of the pantry (stocked with all manner of sweets), endless top-ups from the wine dispenser, and a hearty breakfast the next morning ahead of the journey home.
ANYTHING ELSE TO NOTE?
Complimentary shuttles to the impressive spa at sister property Dormy House Hotel are included in your stay. The team will also ferry you over to the quaint village of Broadway if you fancy pootling along the high street. Furry friends are also very much welcome.
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