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visit This cotswolds country hideaway FOR All Things Food And Relaxation
Head to the Cotswolds for a relaxing break away
Barely more than a hop, skip, and jump from Cheltenham Racecourse and situated on the edge of the Cotswolds, Ellenborough Park is a favourite with racing enthusiasts and ramblers alike. Set around a 600-year-old manor house made from Cotswolds stone, the hotel is nestled in one of Gloucestershire’s prettiest, most idyllic areas, making it the perfect choice for those seeking country walks and minibreaks with the dog in tow. But it’s not all muddy boots and horseboxes, Ellenborough also offers fine dining, slick service, and a state-of-the-art spa.
Enjoy THE style UPDATE Last year the hotel benefitted from a top-tobottom refurbishment that has contrasted its traditional country house bones with a more modern aesthetic. You’ll still find wood panelling, old beams and imposing stone walls, but new architectural details, contemporary furniture and colourful upholstery have given the place a stylish facelift. Many of the 61 bedrooms and suites feature heavy curtains, sumptuous four-poster beds and marble-clad bathrooms complete with roll-top, freestanding tubs, ensuring a stay here always feels like a real treat.
indulge in A little luxury Guests can make use of Ellenborough’s hydrotherapy pool, sauna and mood showers by treating themselves to a spa day, even taking a dip in the open-air pool on warmer days and relaxing on one of the comfortable sun loungers. After tired muscles have been suitably soothed, there are plenty of long walks and bird-watching opportunities nearby for those after a more active break. The hotel’s well-stocked boot room even loans out binoculars and jackets as well as Dubarry boots.
EAT like A king In 1788 George
III was entertained at the manor during a visit to Cheltenham’s famous spa waters. Follow in his footsteps with a meal in the hotel’s intimate, oak-panelled, fine-dining restaurant. With a roaring fireplace and twinkling candlelight, few spots are more romantic after sundown. how Much? From £209 a night with breakfast, based on two sharing. ELLENBOROUGH PARK, SOUTHAM LANE, CHELTENHAM, GLOUCESTERSHIRE GL52 3NJ, 01242 545454, ELLENBOROUGHPARK.COM.