Cliveden, Berkshire

A quintessentially British scene greets you when you drive up Cliveden’s long gravel driveway; a lavish stately home standing proudly surrounded by nothing but its rolling green grounds.  Built by the second Duke of Buckingham in 1666 for his mistress, and once the home of Lord Astor and the scene of the infamous Profumo Scandal, this house has seen a past of debauchery but has now been elegantly transformed into a beautiful hotel complete with Michelin starred chef, luxurious spa and 38 unique rooms and suites. There’s no doubt about it, Cliveden is the secluded and splendid stately home we all need for our English country get-away.

Location

Right on the bank of the River Thames in Berkshire and surrounded by 376 acres of National Trust land, lies this exquisite grade-one listed stately home. Only a 20-minute drive from Heathrow Airport and an hour outside of London it is perfectly placed for a country escape with a day trip or two thrown in. Whilst the picturesque towns of Windsor and Henley-on-Thames are only half an hour away, top of your list should be to explore the surrounding National Trust land with its gardens for all seasons and charming forest, full of paths for rambling walks.

Your Room

Cliveden has 38 regal rooms and suites and whether you prefer to catch forty winks surrounded by traditional grandeur or in a plush, modern abode, this country pad has you covered with rooms in either style. With a variety of special features ranging from antique furniture and fireplaces to separate dressing rooms and private hot tubs there is something for everyone in these individually designed rooms- just pick your favourite. The same can be said about their views, each of which offers a different glimpse of the house’s exquisite grounds.

Why we like it

You can’t stay in a secluded spot right on the bank of the River Thames without taking a luxury boat ride. Cliveden’s boathouse is home to an award-winning restored vintage flotilla that you can take out at your leisure. A lunchtime picnic, an afternoon cream tea or a sunset glass of champagne- all are a possibility on these gorgeous boats. There’s even a lunchtime picnic menu to choose from and Cliveden’s chef will prepare it ready for your afternoon on the water.