MIDDLETON LODGE ESTATE, YORKSHIRE
Down a peaceful, winding driveway, Middleton sits in 200 acres of private parkland, overlooking the rolling Yorkshire Dales. Over the past eight years, husband and wife owners James and Rebecca Allison have restored this beautiful place; transforming the original buildings into a honey-coloured, creative, timeless retreat. Each of the 36 rooms is a calm haven, with Lucy Augé botanical wall art, hand-woven blankets and comfy chairs. Rebecca has worked to tell the story of each room, celebrating original features and keeping the character present, in a cleverly contemporary way.
With sustainability at its heart, the seasonal menu changes daily with the kitchen gardens providing the ‘estate to plate’ dishes. If produce cannot be grown on site, it is provided by neighbouring farms and local fishmongers. We indulge in the heritage squash salad with figs, goat’s curd and truffle honey. The Whitby hot-smoked salmon Caesar salad with boquerone anchovy and Ribblesdale cheese is on another level. Drinks are just as worthy of note as the estate cocktails, county ales and the marvellous sommelier’s wine list will enhance your palate.
For those who adore the fresh air, the hotel staff are delighted to share the hand-drawn woodland walk map where you can further explore the family estate with all manner of flowers and apple, fig and peach trees. Or if you prefer an indoor retreat, the spa is uplifting and serene. Treat yourself to the secret garden escape with a focus on natural, organic products leaving you feeling wonderful from head to toe. A heated outdoor pool and Forest Spa will open soon.
Whether you’re looking for a couples’ retreat or a family wellbeing break, beautiful and uplifting, Middleton Lodge Estate will welcome you all. VANESSA GERBRANDY
ROOMS START FROM £270 A NIGHT. MIDDLETONLODGE.CO.UK