Many have wondered about the impact of Brexit on travel to the UK. In the short term, the truth is we have never seen a better time to visit England. The value is as good as we have seen in a generation, and quite a few properties are running special promotions! We are seeing some of our favorite London hotels selling in the $500s that are typically selling in the $700-$1000/night range! We are also noticing a record number of bookings for the English Countryside – a perfect follow up trip for travelers who love Scotland or Ireland. The English countryside offers everything to make your trip memorable. From visits to family owned farming estates to cheese makers to falconry and beautiful country walks, the options are endless.
If the English Countryside is on your bucket list, take a look at our three of our favorite hotels and the special experiences that are waiting to be discovered.
Amberley Castle
Steeped in over 900 years of history, Amberley Castle is a 5-star luxury property that has hosted English Royalty for centuries. This is absolutely a favorite of in-the-know English gentry. Known for its outstanding cuisine, Amberley Castle is located in the beautiful South Downs National Park, just a little over an hour from Heathrow or a 90-minute train from London. Additionally, it is one hour from the cruise port in Southampton, making it an excellent option for an authentic castle stay pre or post-cruise. There are 12 acres of gardens for guests to enjoy and each of the 19 bedrooms have a unique design with elegant antiques and original features. The owners have invested millions over the past decade on this gem of a castle. Premier Deluxe rooms are favorite as they feature outstanding views of the national park and battlements of the Castle. As a special bonus, Celebrated guests will receive a castle to castle walk with complimentary tickets to Arundel Castle. This is an incredible walk from Amberley to Arundel Castle. While in Arundel, guests can visit the famous castle and explore this vibrant market town, an excellent excursion!
Hotel Tresanton
The gem of the English Riviera. Hotel Tresanton is our featured property in Cornwall, the most southwestern county in the UK. Cornwall is notable for its beautiful seaside villages, quiet coves, sandy beaches, rugged coastline, manor homes and gardens, as well as stunning coastal walks. The region has experienced a surge in popularity thanks to two television series that are filmed here, Poldark and Doc Martin. Tresanton is the beloved property of renowned designer Olga Polizzi (sister to Sir Rocco Forte and Chief Designer for Rocco Forte Hotels). Guests love her personal touch in the decor and furnishings as each item has been personally selected by her. Ideally situated along the southern coast of the Cornish peninsula in the beautiful coastal village of St. Mawes, most of the 30 bedrooms at Hotel Tresanton overlook the sea with many featuring large balconies or terraces. Their 2-bedroom Family Suites are ideal for families traveling together and they even have a private beach club as well as a private yacht for guests to enjoy. The addition of new daily flights from Heathrow to the local airport in Newquay has made Cornwall and Tresanton easily accessible from London. As a special treat, Celebrated guests receive a complimentary picnic lunch when staying three or more nights.
Thornbury Castle
Easily accessible from London, Thornbury Castle is a perfect choice for those who wish to experience a true, authentic castle stay in England. From the moment visitors enter the historic village and pull into the drive, they can’t help but feel the significance of the surroundings. Enveloped by Tudor gardens and ancient walls, each of the 27 bedrooms in the Castle have unique features such as four poster beds, wood-paneled walls, even bathrooms which are tucked behind secret doors. Henry VIII stayed here with Anne Boleyn in 1535. The castle possesses important pieces of British history including armor, art and priceless tapestries which are on display. Dinner in the Dungeon Room is a highlight as well. Thornbury is a great base for clients who wish to explore Bath, and it is also on the doorstep of Wales so a perfect way to begin an off-the-beaten-path journey into the Welsh countryside. Celebrated guests will be welcomed to the castle with a glass of Prosecco!