WHETHER you’re seeking anti-ageing, fitness or just a general reset, look no further than Pennyhill Park, a five-star country house hotel in Bagshot, Surrey, nestled amidst 120 acres of gardens and parkland.
The ivy-clad 19th-century manor house, furnished in a traditional style with draped tapestries, chandeliers and vintage furniture, is my residence for a single evening that can only be described as sheer and unadulterated bliss.
Pennyhill Park Hotel Exterior
After a lengthy drive up a tree-lined path, past the England Rugby team’s training grounds, I begin my stay at reception. The staff are highly professional and well-trained, and it shows. Check-in is complete without delay, and I’m led up a series of winding staircases to my suite, one of 124 rooms in the main house.
The suite itself is expansive, with high beamed ceilings and a grand four-poster bed. Other amenities include a plush daybed, mirrored vanity and the chicest Roman-style bathtub, positioned in front of a flat screen for an elevated soaking experience.
Twickenham Bedroom at Pennyhill
After settling in with a welcome bottle of Taittinger champagne and truffles, I opt for a quick wander around the gardens, which include a golf course and sprawling pine forests.
A drink by the spa’s outdoor pool is next on the agenda. Much like the rest of the hotel, the spa is immense, covering 45,000 sq ft, with eight indoor and outdoor pools, bubbling hot tubs, ice-cold plunge pools and a column-filled maze of heat rooms as the centrepiece.
The Spa at Pennyhill Park – Ballroom Pool
Once freshened up, it was down to Pennyhill’s Michelin-starred restaurant, the Latymer, for a fine dining experience like no other. Situated in one of the oldest parts of the original house, the Latymer has an intimate and luxurious feel with wooden panelling and teal-hued interiors throughout.
Helmed by head chef Steve Smith, the dining experience stretched over four hours. Twelve dishes were served, each paired with a rare wine, the story of which was beautifully detailed by an in-house connoisseur. Highlights of the night’s cuisine included Herwick lamb, a tender, fine-grained meat in succulent pink, foamed oyster from Carlingford Lough in northeastern Ireland and an araguani chocolate and truffle choux.
Dinner at Pennyhill
Upon check-out the following day, all expectations were delivered above and beyond. Welcoming of children and dogs, Pennyhill is a stylish, spoiling place to stay, fuelled by fab food and wine, and one I hope to return to in the future for the utmost relaxation.
by Joshua Hendren
Cosy rooms start at £470 per night (based on two people sharing), with breakfast & spa access included.
Visit www.exclusive.co.uk/pennyhill-park/ to book.