THE MOON is clearly having a moment. Whether it’s Jeff and Richard trying to get there in their rockets or the latest luna wellness trends, it’s fairly certain, you’ve been reading about it.
Heckfield Place is the latest outfit to get in on the act. A reminder, for those who’ve been living under a rock: Heckfield is the “country house hotel for the 21st century” near Hook in Hampshire – think walled gardens, swimming lakes, supremely comfortable bedrooms with not a sniff of chintz in sight and of course, its own biodynamic farm (see what I mean about the moon?), all housed in an 18th century Georgian manor house in 400 acres.
Master Room
Whether you’re into it or find it all a bit woo-woo, one thing is for sure: a stay at Heckfield is a transportive experience rivaling any trip in a rocket. Ceilings soar, the view from every window makes one feel like the heroine of a costume drama and the jaw-dropping art on every wall means you could be in the Courtauld – or certainly the home of an avid art collector.
Hardly a surprise, given that Heckfield’s owner Gerald Chan was recently voted one of Art News’ top 200 collectors in the world. The screening room is a boutique cinema, the food is overseen by Chef Skye Gyngell, of Petersham Nurseries fame and should you fancy a walk in the grounds there are wellies to borrow in every size, from only-just walking to giant’s foot.
Master Bathroom
Our room, meanwhile, was more like a chic open-plan apartment than a bedroom: rush headboard, ceramic lamps, technology neatly tucked away, the smartest breakfast/mini bar I’ve ever seen complete with all manner of cocktail making paraphernalia – and don’t get me started on the swanky kettle – I’ve since tried, and failed, to order one from Japan.
Dining Area
After 24 hours there, I felt as if I’d had a trip to the moon and back – certainly it was down to earth with a bump. Only the monogrammed Heckfield luggage tag left on my suitcase was a reminder of my space trip. Time to book a return flight.
by Twig Hutchinson
Rates at Heckfield Place start at £450 per night. heckfieldplace.com