Staying at Cliveden House is a truly majestic experience, if you've ever dreamed of sleeping in a stately home then Cliveden is the place to relinquish that dream. From the moment you pull into the gates, you will be in awe of the acres of gardens and intriguing monuments that encompass the Cliveden Estate.
After a short drive, the resplendent house emerges at the foot of its vast courtyard. We feel particularly regal as we make our way towards the entrance hall, it would be a huge insult to refer to this as simply a hotel lobby. The decor is immaculate and it feels like the most inviting museum that we've had the pleasure to visit.
We are checked in and taken up the commanding staircase to the Lady Astor Suite. The suite is one of the hotels two parterre suites, which is on the first floor of the main mansion. The suite is newly refurbished but the decor is flamboyant, opulent, and in keeping with Cliveden’s historic roots. Our eyes fall first to the bed, with its sumptuous blue drapes, ornate headboard carvings, and an embroidered pillow with the word ‘Nancy’, Lady Astor's forename. It draws the eye and reminds you that history is still alive here.
“A truly majestic experience.”
There is so much in the room that excites us that we aren't sure where to look first, should we take a moment to admire the awe-inspiring fireplace, should we take a step onto our private terrace to soak in the views, we decide to make our way towards the terrace, which opens out from the living area, its vast and has sun loungers and seating for six. Even without the great British windy weather the views would be breathtaking. I lift a hand to raise a wave to my people, but abruptly remind myself that I'm not Eva Peron.
‘Living like aristocracy’ is the phrase that immediately springs to mind when trying to pin-point the experience so far. Unfortunately our trip to Cliveden was on a particularly cold day, but this didn't concern us too much as you could easily seat six inside in front of the fireplace in the living area of our suite. Along with the complimentary decanter of sherry on hand this was definitely the way to start unwinding. After reading a few of the great Cliveden tales it became apparent that this mansion was always known as a party house and is not without a few scandalous events in its historic tapestry.
In 2016 it seems only natural that the mansions row of room service bells are rendered out of service. These have been replaced by a Crave device where you can order room service, fresh milk, or ice with the touch of a button. So, if you fancy sipping a bottle of champagne from the bath tub, Cliveden House have it covered. The bathroom with its large tub, twin basins, and separate shower is equally as impressive. It also has a walk-in wardrobe and perfectly positioned dressing table so even dressing for dinner is a joy.
A trip to an opulent stately home isn't complete without an indulgent banquet, so we spent our evening dining at André Garrett at Cliveden.
Cliveden House is truly breathtaking and a celebration of British hospitality at its finest, if you haven’t visited before, we strongly suggest you do.