What will you get if you head to Shropshire’s newest House and gardens? Complete luxury paired with utter comfort and Downton Abbey style charm.
This renovated monestary will take your breath away from the minute you approach via the country track, with rolling fields surrounding the impactful and beautiful grounds leading directly up to the House.
A butler style service giving guests the best experience is the main priority for the staff at Hawkstone. From personally greeting you on arrival, with that much needed glass of sparkling wine, through to rustling up anything you wish for your breakfast (not a menu in sight), you’ll feel like royalty by the time you leave and wonder what carrying your own handbag actually means.
We stayed in a classic room and classic charm is certainly what we were given. Aside from the Queen-size bed, draped in crisp white linens and smothered by indulgent, fluffy pillows, there’s a waterfall shower and retro radio softly sharing classical serenades before you arrive. Not stopping there, little extras including fluffy dressing gowns, complimentary Elemis toiletries and buttery shortbread can also be found in the bedrooms. The views provide serenity beyond belief and give views of the courtyard, surrounding countryside and even the lake in the distance.
The Hawkstone gardens spread for miles and in the sunshine you can explore the apple orchard, lakes and greenery via a private buggy tour or an easy stroll. Re-discovered rivers, ponds and monuments are also dotted around the grounds and pools of water filled with hundreds of fish, which are fun for the kids to spot during your exploration of the outdoors.
Thinking about the food (our first thought too)? The Saloon restaurant has just opened and is situated in one of the oldest parts of the original main house. Executive chef Andrew Watts offers chiefly British dishes with bold flavours and the best bit of this restaurant, NO DRESS CODE. Despite the plush fabrics, luxury feel and stunning artwork adorning the walls, there’s no snobbery in this place.
If you’re not looking for a sit-down meal, you can enjoy sharing platters and bar snacks. We’d recommend taking them up on this offer, or at least ensure there’s a designated driver because once you’re at Hawkstone, it’s pretty hard to find any way out. If you’re after something earlier in the day, the Afternoon Tea is a spectacle in itself, including finger sandwiches, homemade cakes, tarts & scones, along with a selection of loose leaf teas or freshly brewed coffee, all whilst overlooking the beautiful Hawkstone Gardens.
Whilst Hawkstone Hall is a beautiful, serene getaway, it’s also one of the most luxurious wedding venues you might stumble across. The bridal preparation suite is every girl’s dream, with dressing areas for the bridesmaids, huge bathrooms and everything you need for the big day. There are plenty of options for the ‘I do’ locations, from the opulent Ballroom through to the converted private Chapel. Both exclusive and non-exclusive venue hire is available, starting at £2995.00 for non-exclusive and £8,995.00 for exclusive.
Hawkstone Hall facilitates wellness and yoga retreats, and it’s also worth checking out for a day visit. Hosting events including outdoor cinema nights, you can pop along to experience some good ol’ British fresh air before heading home for your own bed.
Would we recommend a stay at Hawkstone? Absolutely. This hidden gem won’t stay hidden for very long but offers some of the best hospitality we’ve ever experienced.
THE PRICES
Classic rooms start from £175.00 a night and include breakfast
Evening meals start at £17.95 for a main (Linguine & seasonal foraged mushrooms)
Afternoon tea costs £29.95 per guest
Wellness retreats start at £395.00 per guest for 2 nights and including all activities.
Event and wedding prices vary.
To book a stay, event or wedding venue viewing at Hawkstone visit http://hawkstonehall.co.uk