With a history that can be traced back to the 14th Century, Calcot Manor has belonged to the Estcourt family since the time of Henry VIII, first opening its doors as a luxury hotel in 1984.
Now fully restored and known as Calcot & Spa, it’s been reimagined as a rambling family-friendly playground in the Cotswolds, where guests can feast, celebrate, lounge by the fireside, romp in the outdoors and, most of all, relax.
Set in 240 acres of grounds that have been ‘rewilded’ through the planting of native woodland and wildflowers, it has attracted endangered birds and butterflies as well as humans seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle.
The 35 stylish, comfortable rooms are designed to be cosy for two or big enough to accommodate the whole family with bags of space to spare - some of them are split over two floors. Or you can book into the seclusion of The Cottage, with its private garden terrace.
Children are very much welcome here. The Osted-registered Playbarn is a creche where the younger ones can make new friends and enjoy the toys and arts and crafts materials, while in the Mez the over-eights can play with games consoles and watch films at the mini cinema.
Meanwhile, the grown-ups can switch off in Calcot’s world-class spa, swimming a few lengths in the heated pool, retreating into the sauna and steam room or slipping into the soothing water of the fireside hot tub. Various treatments are available.
For the more energetic there’s also a state-of-the-art gym and fitness studio and two tennis courts, or you can borrow a bicycle to explore the surrounding countryside.
And when it’s time to eat choose between the elegant conservatory overlooking the grounds serving surprising seasonal dishes and the Gumstool Inn, Calcot’s own country pub, for more traditional meals in a relaxed atmosphere.
