As controversial as this may seem as a 31-year-old woman; I haven’t been to that many spas. With an active mind, and ‘always busy’, in the past I have struggled to sit around in a dressing gown all day. However, since having my now 10-month-old baby girl, the thought of relaxing by a pool and popping in and out of the steam room was exactly what I was in need of. And who better to spend a luxury weekend away with, than with my sister, who also just happens to be my best friend?
With our husbands safely at home with our little ones, we made our escape to one of the UK’s most exclusive – yet friendly (!) hotels – Stoke Park. A short 35 minute journey from London and boasting 300 acres, a golf course that even James Bond approves of, and a 3 AA fine dining restaurant, we knew this was going to be a weekend that we would remember forever…
With glorious blue skies, and crisp Autumnal air, we made our way to the hotel entrance admiring the amazing setting around us. From a family of golfers, we aren’t pros but we could tell that this course was pretty amazing!
As we entered the reception, the smell of sweet Christmas spices filled the air as the ever professional, attentive, yet friendly, Roberto and Marta checked us into our Junior Suite. As the door opened, we couldn’t help but squeal in girlie excitement at the room, and its incredible view from our window, which looked out onto the golf course and outdoor hot tub enclosed by trees for extra privacy…utter bliss!
Not wanting to waste a second of our weekend, we donned our robes and slippers and made our way to the spa. We headed straight to the pool area which boasts floor to ceiling windows, allowing us to admire the incredible glistening winter’s sun.
After a couple of hours of swimming, using the steam room, and relaxing, we were then ready for our treatments. As I spend the majority of my days crawling round the floor playing peek-a-boo, or lifting my daughter in and out of the pushchair or car, my shoulders and neck have been long overdue some TLC! Ros, the therapist who has worked at the hotel for 12 years (which to me says so much about how great the hotel is), made me feel super relaxed as she worked deep into my muscles.
Following my treatment I met my sister in the relaxation room, which was dark with four comfy beds if it weren’t for the excitement about dinner we probably would have slept there all night.
After some more unwinding, we made our way back to our rooms, cracked open some champagne (that has never tasted better), and got ready for dinner at the fine dining restaurant, Humphreys.
Contrasting with the rich history of the hotel, Head Chef Chris Wheeler offers a modern twist on British Cuisine. Not necessarily usually one for fine dining, I have to admit that this for me was the highlight of my stay, and was one of the best meals I have ever eaten; and at £68.00 for three courses, it’s also very reasonable for the fantastic service, setting and quality.
We were seated by the grand bay doors of the restaurant looking out onto the full restaurant. Everyone in the room was smart and elegant, yet there was a really relaxed, warm and upbeat atmosphere which was so lovely!
Our waiter was super attentive, and we started off with a cocktail each, which he informed us are tested by 1000 people before they even make the menu, err…where do I sign up?
I opted for the curry scallops to start accompanied with roast cauliflower puree, curry mayo, onion bhaji and curry soaked raisins. I LOVE scallops, but this combination was sheer mouth-watering! Lucy had the Ham Hock and Foie Gras Terrine, Salt-baked Pineapple, Quails Eggs, Game Chops and Pineapple and chilli Chuntney and said how delicious it was.
For mains, we both opted for the Fillet of Brookfield Farm Beef, Oxtail and marmite ragout, Shallot puree, Girolles, bone marrow crumb and red wine jus, teamed with a gorgeous glass of Malbec. It was utterly delicious and we savoured and devoured every last mouthful. I just wish every meal was like this!
Although we were both so full, we couldn’t resist the cheesecake to share for dessert which was again just perfection.
With full tummies, we retired to our rooms with luxurious comfy beds. I think we both fell asleep as soon as our heads hit the pillow.
Waking up a little later than usual, we both sat and had a coffee in bed as we looked out on the bright blue sunshine admiring the view. After a hearty breakfast we strolled around the hotels grounds. Every way you turn was beautiful.
Stoke Park is the perfect retreat from reality. We found ourselves not quite knowing or even thinking about where we were. So if you’re in need of the perfect getaway then Stoke Park is the hotel for you!
Address: Stoke Park, Country Club, Spa and Hotel, Park Road, Stoke Poges SL2 4PG / 01753 717171
