ENGLAND’S history is undoubtedly its biggest tourist attraction and when one visits Ellenborough Park it is easy to see why.
The stunning manor house, which has its origins in the 1400s, is a record of England’s most notable eras, with Tudor extensions, gothic-stained glass windows bearing the crests of successive monarchs and faux Norman towers added in the Victorian era, all crafted from the unmistakable ancient Cotswold limestone, which earns the area its title as the home of the most beautiful villages in England.
Ellenborough Park exterior
Through the ages, Ellenborough Park has hosted many notable figures, invited or otherwise, including King George III who stayed to improve his health with the famed Cheltenham spa waters and Oliver Cromwell, who is thought to be responsible for the bullet holes in the original front door that still hangs in the porch.
Today, the historic features add a truly breathtaking charm to the building. In the grand hall, where afternoon tea is served, one is spellbound by the antique oak panelling, enormous portraits of Tudor monarchs and roaring fire in the huge central fireplace.
There is a viewing gallery above where one can easily imagine courtiers watching as lavish banquets and festivities ensued below. The dining hall is equally spellbinding. There is an extraordinary and palpable sense of being able to reach back through the folds of time and almost enter another era completely.
The pool
Modern additions have been made extremely respectfully and successfully. For example, the hotel has miraculously managed to add a small spa with jacuzzi, sauna and steam room in the old building, with treatment rooms offering a wide menu of Elemis face and body treatments. There is also a heated outdoor pool that, even in the chill of January, is very warm.
The spa and pool are extremely popular – especially after the 3pm check-in – so visit early to avoid disappointment. However, for a truly exclusive experience the new private garden spa is also available for booking for groups of up to 12.
The dining room
The food at Ellenborough Park is particularly noteworthy. Local produce is “fresher than fresh” and is exquisitely transformed by head chef Richard Simms, who showcases the very best of British flavours.
There is a plethora of rooms to choose from, from the newly opened cottage-like lodge to manor suites, deluxe poolside rooms, garden rooms and accessible rooms. The hotel and staff are very accommodating to special requests and children and dogs are warmly welcomed. In essence, Ellenborough Park is everything you would hope for from a countryside escape and more besides.
by Nicola Kavanagh
Nightly rates at Ellenborough Park start from £289 inclusive of VAT and breakfast based on a Traditional Bedroom sleeping two people.
For more information visit ellenboroughpark.com