Hotel of the week

WHERE AND WHY?

Ascot in Berkshire is synonymous with horse racing. But you don’t need binoculars and a race card in hand to stay at The Royal Foresters, which is a sure bet for any weekend stay.

It’s been renovated to provide a suite of plush new rooms with high-gabled ceilings, pine-cladded walls and luxury bathrooms. There’s also the nice touch of a Nespresso machine in each room.

Other up-to-the minute features include Netflix and Amazon on your TV.

Outside is a fabulous new dining area with rattan sofas, clever landscaping and canopies.

COVID CHECK-IN

We visited the weekend after the 10pm curfew came into force. There was door security, an NHS app check-in procedure, sanitiser points and a strict one-way route from your room to dining area which is dotted with subtly positioned perspex screens.

ON THE MENU

Choose this hotel for the excellent food. It’s easily five star.

You can hear the chef shout your order from “the pass” just like an episode of Masterchef.

We started by sharing calamari with a new fave, harissa mayo, before I sampled a succulent fillet steak. My wife had a flavoursome fishcake and my daughter, a wood-fired pizza margherita oozing with mozzarella. I couldn’t resist the full English the following morning, surprisingly light with tasty smoked bacon.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE

Visit Savill Garden, just 7.5miles away and a 15-minute drive. Walk around Windsor Park and imagine what it might be like to live in Frogmore Cottage, one-time home of Harry and Meghan, located on the estate.

The Ascot racecourse, founded in 1711 by Queen Anne, is a must visit at least once in your life.

WAKE-UP CALL

Double/twin rooms at The Royal Foresters start from £99 per night. Use the code Reach-readeroffer when booking and receive a £10 voucher for each adult to use in the bar and restaurant.

theroyalforesters.co.uk/rooms