A stay at Billesley Manor Hotel and Spa is not only a luxurious treat but where it is situated in the heart of Warwickshire there are endless possibilities of places to visit, entertainment and gastronomic delights.
En route, we called into Leamington, enjoying coffee and cake in an Italian coffee shop, a wander among the wealth of shops, a stroll in a lovely park, then lunch at Carluccios.
Tired and satiated, we travelled the short distance to Billesley Manor. Approaching the drive, our first impressions were of a wonderful imposing building in acres of grounds. It was Halloween, so we were welcomed with a display of gourds and pumpkins together with a large bronze shaggy dog.
Much effort had been made to keep guests safe during Covid restrictions whilst maintaining a relaxed atmosphere. Reception staff were friendly and we were shown to our clean, comfortable room. Two floral velvet armchairs overlooked the garden, which was full of large and unusual topiary. One hedge looked like a gorilla! It was quite magical. We could imagine the grounds and seating area being delightful in spring and summer.
We went for a pleasurable, relaxing swim in the Spa pool, then rounded off our day with a most delightful evening meal from an extensive menu with fine wine served by friendly professional staff.
We could not help but notice that although the whole building is in post medieval style with a Shakespearean theme, there were some quirky modern touches. Elizabethan pictures in the dining room looked as though they had been brush stroked with bright paint. An ‘As You Like It’ room had books hanging from the ceiling!
A wonderful day was followed by a good night’s sleep and then a choice of breakfast with tasty locally sourced ingredients.
Making the most of our time in this wonderful area, we travelled a few minutes into Stratford upon Avon, where we walked along the river, had a drink outside the Dirty Duck and took lunch in one of the many good restaurants. We also made a note of many interesting things to do in Stratford for our next visit.
We will definitely stay at Billesley Manor again and take advantage of this wonderful hotel and all the surrounding area has to offer.
Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa is a unique 5 Star luxury hotel in an Elizabethan manor house standing in 11 acres of superb grounds in Alcester, on the doorstep of Stratford upon Avon. With COVID secure accreditation and more than 70 guest bedrooms, including deluxe suites, it is here that Shakespeare penned his comedy ‘As You Like It’ in 1599.
A £5.6 million refurbishment has recently been completed and the premises include not only guest accommodation and a divine spa but extensive facilities for weddings, conferences and other private events. The grounds have features including a spectacular Victorian topiary garden and an 11th century church where Shakespeare is thought to have married Anne Hathaway.
Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa, Alcester, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire B49 6NF; tel 01789 279955, email reservations@billesleymanor.com website www.billesleymanor.com .
