Nestled in the bucolic Cotswolds is the village of Minster Lovell, home to a functioning water mill – built on the foundations of a thousand-year-old mill documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. This mill, and rushing River Windrush that runs through it, provide a picturesque backdrop and ambient soundtrack for the luxury spa hotel, Minster Mill.
Hotel
This 38-room hotel is a pretty network of low-level Cotswold structures, which complement their natural setting beautifully, within wildflower meadows.
Inside, the hotel’s Scandi-style rooms and cosy spaces manage to feel both welcoming and relaxing. Furthermore, a bar, restaurant, outdoor terrace, spa and tennis court make it a great all-round getaway.
Room
Bedrooms are unique in character and are split into five categories: classic, garden, superior, feature and seven junior suites. Each individually designed room is dressed in individually sourced fabrics, modern lights and mid-century furniture, while every suite boasts picturesque views and spa-like bathrooms.
Our suite was contemporary and calming, boasting luxury treats such as Newby teas, which come in the most exquisite artful packaging, a Nespresso machine, homemade ginger biscuits and L’Occitane skincare and bath lotions.
With river views, a selection of the feature rooms additionally have private terraces with log burners or fire pits, perfect for romantic evenings.
Food and drink
The Mill restaurant’s vaulted ceilings and original oak beams are complemented by large light-giving picture windows on three walls that create an atmospheric dining space.
The restaurant’s head chef Andrew Campbell fuses contemporary and traditional British cooking and adds an appealing local twist. Campbell changes his à la carte menu frequently and carefully selects the best regional, seasonal ingredients, while supporting British farmers, fishermen and artisan producers. Diners can choose two courses from an elaborate menu for £60 or a more indulgent three for £70 per head.
Sitting at a table perfect for people watching, my friend and I started with the most delicious round of warm sourdough, garnished on a wooden board by an artisan smoked, whipped butter.
My friend then tried the hay-baked Jersey royal with Montgomery cheddar, pickled onion and leek and I the glazed pork cheek, with broad bean, mint, radish and burnt apple. Small, artful dishes to whet the appetite.
Mains were a headier affair – roasted stone bass with courgette, fennel and liquorice sauce and a robust lamb rump, served with the cheffy additions of caramelised yoghurt, turnip and black garlic.
By this point, stomachs aching, we took a rest to catch up. A pre-dessert arrived then at our table of a deconstructed Bakewell tart – a joy to devour. These amuse-bouche courses, we learnt, also change frequently.
Full to the brim, yet tempted by the puds, we opted to share the ‘Manjari ganache’. Manjari, we discovered, is an exceptional, single-origin, dark cooking chocolate made with beans from Madagascar. The ganache was served with Poire William (a type of pear) gel and pear sorbet for maximum impact. The grand finale most certainly didn’t disappoint, and we both agreed this restaurant is perfect for special occasions or simply an indulgent dinner out.
The restaurant also offers a popular daytime afternoon tea menu, with homemade scones and freshly cut sandwiches, which can be enjoyed outdoors in spring or summer on its terrace with a glass of Champagne or by the fire with a pot of tea in autumn or winter.
Bar
Set in a high gallery overlooking the restaurant, the Mill Bar serves fine wines and Champagnes from the owner’s own cellar, along with classic cocktails. The list was exhaustive, and I was impressed by the four different types of tonics available – especially delighted when my favourite elderflower was behind the bar.
Spa and wellness
Minster Mill’s Garden Spa is a tranquil haven set in the heart of the grounds. The indoor heated plunge pool is both serene and intimate, with a poolside rock sauna, aroma steam room, ice fountain and tropical rain forest shower, complete with sounds of the jungle. These facilities are available upon booking any spa treatment or spa day.
The spa uses ESPA products and has three treatment suites, including a double treatment suite, complete with walk-in double shower, perfect for couples or friends, and a unique RASUL mud therapy area. For my pedicure, I was able to relax on a curved day bed with blankets for comfort. The utmost care was taken over my perfectly painted red toes. My therapist was welcoming and friendly and made me feel at ultimate ease.
Also on offer are a range of facials, using SKINVISION technology to identify skin conditions not visible to the naked eye, plus body treatments including three different types of massage, body wraps, mud therapy treatments, manicures and pedicures. Spa days including lunch, treatment and use of the spa start at £90 and a menu of mini-treatments is perfect if you are short on time or want to add to your spa experience.
To do
Minster Mill is just 15 miles from Oxford’s dreaming spires and 11 miles from historic Blenheim Palace. The hotel is surrounded by 65 acres of idyllic grounds with wildflower meadows and woodlands. During summer, activities such as fishing, walking, croquet, badminton and tennis are available. Quintessential Cotswolds villages Stow-on-the-Wold and Burford are a stone’s throw away. And those with families and a love of nature can visit nearby Cotswold Wildlife Park.
In a nutshell
A Cotswolds spa hotel set in 65 acres of idyllic grounds in the tranquil Oxfordshire village of Minster Lovell. The high-tech water mill also boasts a hydropower turbine; the Archimedes Screw which harnesses the power of the river and supplies much of Minster Mill hotel’s electricity.
Factbox
Double rooms can be booked from £122prpn on a bed and breakfast basis.
Address: Minster Mill, Minster Lovell, Oxfordshire, Cotswolds, OX29 0RN, UK
Phone: 01993 774 441
Email: info@minstermill.co.uk
Website: minstermill.co.uk
