SCOUTING SERIES: JUST BACK FROM ENGLAND
We recently teamed up with our dear partners and destination specialists at Dream Escape for an Educational Study Program to discover the beauty of bespoke England. Designed by expert travellers for expert travellers, the behind-the-scenes trip was a deep dive into the UK’s most coveted countryside estates. As a luxury advisor, I collaborate with the crème de la crème in each destination to deliver extraordinary experiences led by locals from the moment you step off the plane to your departure back home. Here are some of the properties we scouted, full of captivating character and timeless disposition.
THE DORCHESTER, LONDON
This iconic hotel is where the tranquillity of Hyde Park, the buzz of Park Lane, the elegance of Mayfair and the glistening of Bond Street blend into one. Steeped in city history, The Dorchester invites you to experience the next generation as they unveil the full property makeover. The newly refurbished Promenade acts as the heart of the hotel, alongside three Michelin-starred Alain Ducasse, Tom Booton’s The Grill and China Tang. With itineraries, guides and recommendations, staff here have a wealth of knowledge so you can make the most of your time in The Big Smoke.
WILDERNESS RESERVE, SUFFOLK
Wilderness Reserve is an 8,000-acre estate of woodland, lakes, and rolling pasture sprinkled with an eclectic collection of traditional Suffolk properties. Lovingly restored by artisans, each home has a unique, unforgettable character. From the grand manor house and restored 15th-century barn to the charming, thatched cottages and romantic retreats, this estate is a long-term conservation and restoration project that protects English nature and breathes new life into historic properties with every stay.
COWORTH PARK, ASCOT
Nestled in the beautiful Berkshire countryside, Coworth Park is a luxurious spa hotel that offers idyllic relaxation in many guises. Whether it’s a rural detox or an indulgent, romantic escape, you’ll find an experience to refresh every sense within this welcoming oasis of calm. With 71 accommodations and six standalone cottages, Coworth Park offers rest and relaxation on 240 acres of parkland. You’ll find a range of activities, including horseback riding, cycling, tennis, learning to play polo (in season) and hiking on an extensive set of trails.
HECKFIELD PLACE, HOOK
This lovingly restored family home is set on 400 acres in North Hampshire. Here, the English countryside encapsulates the essence of quiet romance. Extraordinary meals are prepared by talented chefs with ingredients pulled directly from the on-site biodynamic farm, while the interior is adorned with antiques and bespoke pieces. In the warmer months, take a rowboat out on the lake; or in the cooler months, curl up by the fire with a good book. Wander through the secret door of the walled gardens to free your spirit and reconnect with nature.
THE NEWT IN SOMERSET
The Newt in Somerset is a château in England’s West countryside — a working estate of perfectly landscaped gardens, rolling farmlands and cider orchards. It’s a luxury lair designed to perfection. And with only 23 rooms, you’ll have private access to roam the manor’s English gardens in the early mornings and evenings. Guests enjoy elegant and seasonal dining, inspired by and gathered from the surrounding area. You’re invited to feast on estate vegetables, choice cuts from the salt room and dayboat fish from the Dorset coast.
For a tailored travel experience, plan your upcoming trip with us today. With over 25 years of experience in luxury travel, we offer our clients insights and personally curated itineraries that take the stress out of travel, allowing more time to decompress and discover and explore your chosen destination while you’re on the road.