Nestled in the heart of the chocolate box village of Chipping Campden lies a little wonder of Cotswold gorgeous-ness that goes by the name of the Cotswold House Hotel & Spa.
Peeking out to the picturesque main street, the Grade II listed townhouse features just 28 perfectly formed rooms and suites.
With so much on the doorstep for children to enjoy, it is a great base for a family stay; however it undoubtedly makes for an idyllic country retreat for a relaxing couples short break so my husband and I were all too willing to take the opportunity and indulge.
Stepping inside the hotel, the designers have captured a perfect balance between a modern décor and the original features that result in a luxurious and charismatic feel.
Many of the rooms adopt an individual style that are all accessed through the zigzagging corridors throughout the hotel. Our room, a Junior Suite, offered up a dark and mysterious ambience with plush fabrics and mahogany woods for a sultry feel. The grand bed, lofty ceilings and private courtyard were enough to induce all the feels set for relaxation, yet this was nothing until you open the double doors to the bathroom.
The spectacular bathroom, nearly as large as the bedroom itself, was equipped with a stunning freestanding oval, stone tub. Surrounding the oversized bath were two impressive sets of glistening mood lighting, his and hers sinks and towering rain shower. If I had to self isolate here for an extended period of time, I’d be very happy!
Foodies won’t be disappointed with the offering. With two restaurants – fine dining, the Fig, and casual option, Bistro on the Square – the hotel has curated two excellent dining experiences. Opting for the bistro’s modern British menu, being at the heart of the country, a lot of detail is taken in utilising local produce. The menu kicks off a delectable feast with starters such as melt-in-the-mouth scallops and crispy pork belly and herb crust beef medallions. The main dishes comprise of great quality, well-cooked hearty favourites such as the spinach and ricotta tortellini and duck with all the trimmings paired with a tart juniper berry jus. The lively setting is regularly frequented as much by locals as it is by overnight residents, a positive nod to the fine quality and impeccable service. There’s also an impressive range of gins on offer with an accompanying ample cocktail menu.
While the front of the hotel steps right into the terraced high street, the grounds to the rear portray a story of two halves. Akin to a beautiful, secret garden, the perfectly manicured grounds are not just a delight to look at but you can easily find a secluded spot to sit down and relax, or find your inner child with one of the fun garden games.
Stepping out from the hotel and as the name suggests, the market town features lots of wonderful boutiques brimming with antiques, clothing and gifting items. Further afield, there’s an abundance of local walking trails, many of which can be picked up from right outside the hotel. National Trust sites and the historic towns of Stratford-upon-Avon and Broadway are just a short drive away.
Due to the current situation (and I don’t really want to play on it!) we didn’t get to visit the spa; however the allure of a hydrotherapy pool, steam room and a good selection of treatments, only leave me with yet another reason to return.
So, if you’re in need of some respite, adult conversation and a maybe a massage thrown into the mix, the Cotswold House Hotel & Spa is a wonderful spot!
Bed and breakfast double rooms start from £140 (winter) and £180 (summer). To book, visit www.cotswoldhouse.com or call 01386 840330.
