Weston Hall is a magnificent Grade II* listed building in the Staffordshire countryside
Nestled in the heart of the Staffordshire countryside, Weston...
What makes Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa the perfect UK getaway
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After a busy few months, I was desperate for a getaway and didn’t hesitate when the opportunity arose to visit Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa – a hotel that provides the perfect setting for relaxing getaways, weddings and mini-moons. On one sunny afternoon, my mum and I set off to discover what the popular venue had to offer – spoiler alert, we were not disappointed.
THE PERFECT SETTING
Situated just outside the Medieval town of Stratford-upon-Avon, the manor is surrounded by scenic countryside and is ideally located with easy access to the M40.
Upon arriving at the 16th-century hotel and descending the long driveway, we were blown away by the charming grounds and grand exterior.
After an extensive refurbishment, the 125-year-old hotel has undergone a stunning transformation. The newly-refurbished spaces have been lovingly decorated using a blend of traditional and modern designs. There are plenty of quirky features, beautiful fireplaces and nods to William Shakespeare himself. The famous writer visited the property and is rumoured to have written one of his famous plays there, which is where the As You Like It Lounge got its name. With books ‘floating’ in the beautiful bookshelf, this inspirational space provided a quiet location to relax with a book and play some games. We spent a lot of time here playing with the property’s Alice in Wonderland chess set.
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REST YOUR HEAD
With 71 on-site bedrooms to choose from, we were lucky enough to stay in the Manor House Deluxe Room. Featuring a cosy design and luxury furnishings, what place could be better to unwind from everyday life?
Our room had everything we needed and more, from a mini-fridge and coffee table to reading chairs, a desk with a vanity mirror and a beautifully-designed bathroom. If you’re anything like me, then you’ll also love the double wardrobe!
The super-king-sized bed provided pure comfort thanks to the duck- down duvet and Hypnos Lansdowne cashmere mattress. Each morning, I awoke feeling refreshed and ready for the day ahead.
I loved the rain-fall shower in the bathroom and the Essential Savon products provided, which included shampoo, conditioner and shower gel. A lovely touch was the cotton waffle bathrobes.
Our room had a stunning view over the Victorian Topiary Garden, which were planted more than 125 years ago and were inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland with plants shaped like giant chess pieces.
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TO DINE FOR
We had a fantastic meal at The Stuart Restaurant, which featured stunning décor, artwork, high ceilings, warm lighting and open fires – perfect for a romantic dinner.
The talented chef creates delicious dishes using some of the best local produce. I started with the carrot and coriander soup, followed by a roasted breast of chicken with truffle mash, and everything was cooked to perfection! My mum loved the risotto and still talks about it to this day. The dinner service was impeccable, with friendly and attentive staff who ensured we had the best experience possible.
The restaurant was also where breakfast was served, my favourite meal of the day! With a selection of fruit, cereal and pastries accompanied by fresh juices to pick from, as well as cooked food – guests won’t go hungry!
TIME TO RELAX
What better location to relax than the newly-refurbished spa? With an impressive list of treatments available, including facials, massages, scrubs and body treatments, guests are sure to feel refreshed and rejuvenated. The property offers several spa days, perfect for couples looking for a relaxing break away from wedding planning.
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Upon entering the relaxing foyer area, I was welcomed by an expert beauty therapist who went through my problem areas to create a personalised facial just for me. The facial lasted 25 minutes and included a mixture of cleansing, refreshing and hydrating products from ESPA. The background music, dimmed lighting and aroma of essential oils added to the calming atmosphere, and I entered a world of pure relaxation – especially during the head massage.
After the session ended, I noticed the results instantly! My skin looked more radiant, my dry patches had improved significantly, and I had fewer blackheads – something I struggle with.
During our stay we went swimming each morning and used the steam room and sauna. The comfortable loungers beside the pool offered the perfect space to relax with a good-old book.
Make sure you check out some of the venue’s indoor and outdoor activities, including meditation and yoga in the gardens or the yoga hut to calm the body and mind. Exercise enthusiasts won’t be disappointed by the homely and intimate gym that’s fully air-conditioned.
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EXCHANGING VOWS
Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa is not only the perfect getaway, but it also offers a stunning backdrop for quintessentially English weddings. Couples can hire the manor exclusively and will receive assistance from the venue’s wedding specialists to help create the perfect day.
Say “I do” in The Stuart Room, which features traditional oak panelling, stunning chandeliers, a charming atmosphere and period features. For intimate celebrations, The Drawing Room, with stunning views over the gardens, is perfect. Alternatively, why not choose the Topiary Garden Suite, which has been designed to match any colour scheme? This bright and airy suite opens into the gardens to create the perfect space for drink receptions.
The venue’s bi-annual wedding fairs are the perfect opportunity to meet talented companies, ask any questions you may have and receive plenty of valuable advice.
Discover more about the hotel here: www.billesleymanor.com
