A grand country house with a contemporary feel, Bowood provides the perfect autumnal retreat.
In rural Whiltshire lies the stunning Bowood Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort. Set in 2,000 acres of Capability Brown landscaped grounds, with an 18-hole championship golf course, luxury spa, woodlands, and a historic estate, country retreats don’t come much better than this. Perfect for couples as well as families, the resort has won numerous accolades.
The Bowood estate dates back to the 18th-century; however, the hotel itself is newly built. Bowood’s interior marries the contemporary feel of a top London hotel with the warm and relaxed environment of a country house. The 43-bedroom interior was designed by no less than Lady of the Manor herself, Lady Lansdowne. Steeped in rich history, the estate has been in the Lansdowne family since 1754 and is still owned by the 9th Marquis of Lansdowne.
Our room was bright and airy with modern touches such as a flat-screen TV and iPod docking station, as well as thoughtful complementary gifts of homemade cookies and fresh fruit. Drawing the curtains revealed our own private balcony overlooking the lush green golf course, which, children will be please to hear, is often visited by some of the estates other residents such as deer and bunnies.
The Shelburne Restaurant and Bar offer a delicious British seasonal menu with ingredients often sourced from Lord and Lady Lansdowne’s own gardens. Children are welcome for breakfast and lunch, but evening introduces an adult-only policy. Families won’t be disappointed though as there is a much more child-friendly menu at the golf club brasserie next door.
Your stay at Bowood would not be complete without a visit to the Bowood Estate and Gardens. Free for hotel residents and less than a 10-minute, complementary golf-buggy ride away, the house is truly stunning. Take a quiet stroll through the charming library or the lab where Joseph Priestley discovered oxygen. Afterwards visit the pretty gardens, picnic by the lake, or visit the impressive 30-foot waterfalls. Twelve-and-unders can explore the adventure playgrounds complete with pirate galleon, trampolines, wendy house, swings, and the Victorian-inspired space drive, otherwise known as the ‘death slide’ for the bravest of youngsters.
Finish off your stay with an indulgent spa treatment, dip in the pool, relaxation in the crystal steam room, or play a round of golf.
Bowood’s staff are warm and welcoming and will ensure you and your family have everything you need for the ultimate country staycation. This hotel is sure to create wonderful memories for both adults and children and after one visit, we know you’ll want to return.
Need-To-Know:
Rooms: 43
Rates: Double rooms with Bed & Breakfast from £149 and Family Breaks from £275 per night.
Facilities: Spa & Pool, 18-hole golf course, Restaurant & Bar, Brasserie, Spa Bar, Free WiFi throughout, Library, Free entry to Bowood Estate & Garden and Adventure Playground, Z beds, cots available, swimming times for children, and a helipad.
Check In: 2.30pm
Check Out: 11.00am but later checkout can be arranged
How To Get There: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from London. 15 minutes from Junction 17 off the M4 or a 10-minute taxi from Chippenham rail station.
Visit bowood-hotel.co.uk to find out more.