Cowley Manor Experimental
Cowley Manor Experimental
Driving up to Cowley Manor Experimental in the English Cotswolds, you half expect to bump into the cast of Bridgerton taking an afternoon stroll. This 17th century mansion, with gardens cascading down to lakes and extensive parkland beyond, is just the kind of setting you want for a historical costume drama. But although it is TV-worthy, Cowley Manor’s big claim to fame is that it is reputedly the place which inspired Lewis Carroll to write surreal children’s novel Alice in Wonderland. The hotel can’t promise you’ll meet the Cheshire Cat or the Queen of Hearts, but if it’s a fine day then undoubtedly there will be croquet — albeit without flamingoes — on the lawn!
Designer Dorothée Meilichzon has kept Alice in mind when creating Cowley Manor’s interiors, not least in the checkerboard accents. Much of the furniture has a 1930s vibe, especially in the bar and lounge, but it is brought bang up to date with bold colours and graphic prints. On a winter’s evening, you’ll want to sit cosily around the fireplace, but at other times, the huge outdoor terrace is irresistible. Sit looking out at the parkland with a glass of wine, admiring the rolling hills and sipping on a glass of English sparkling wine.
There are 36 guest rooms at Cowley Manor, many of which have four poster beds. The historic sash windows are huge and overlook the gardens, church, or spa. The destination spa is semi-hidden, which is clever as it’s huge, but its new building doesn’t interrupt the heritage feel of the grounds. Get close, however, and there are indoor and outdoor pools, sauna and stream rooms, and plenty of spaces for massage and other indulgent treatments. You’ll step out feeling as if you are floating on clouds.
Chef Jackson Boxer takes the helm in Cowley Manor’s kitchen, cooking up a storm of seasonal local ingredients. Take a table in the formal room, or on the terrace if the evening is warm, and order the Discovery Menu, Boxer’s pick of his current favorite dishes. The sommelier is a magician too, so leave your wine pairings to her capable hands.
www.cowleymanorexperimental.com
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