Get ready for an enchanting tale of exploration, laughter and unforgettable moments amidst the idyllic beauty of the English countryside at Burleigh Court Hotel with our Editor in Chief, Laura Bartlett…
As the sun peeped over the Yorkshire horizon, I decided it was time for a little road trip. So, with the wind in my hair and the tunes blasting, I embarked on a journey from Leeds to the picturesque Cotswolds. And you know what? I had the audacity to do it with the roof down, because, well, why not feel the wind in your hair when you’re off on an adventure?
With a gleeful heart and a tank full of gas, I made my way to Burleigh Court, knowing that the adventure had only just begun. The icing on the cake was the fact that I was reuniting with my dear friend Hayley, who I hadn’t seen in over a year. Oh, the excitement!
We had the perfect two days planned – long walks in the picturesque countryside, catching up on all the gossip and laughter and of course, indulging in a bit of window shopping in the local boutiques. It was going to be a trip to remember, filled with the kind of moments that make life worth living.
As I pulled up to the charming manor house, I couldn’t help but grin from ear to ear, knowing that the next few days were going to be nothing short of magical.
Setting the Scene: Rustic Charm Meets Luxury
Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Burleigh Court isn’t just a hotel; it’s a picturesque escape straight out of a storybook. Imagine a charming 18th-century grade II listed manor house, its stone façade steeped in history, inviting you to step into a world where rustic allure meets classical elegance.
Before you even make it to your room, there’s something that sets the tone for your entire stay – the cosy lobby area. Picture this: a roaring fire crackling merrily in the hearth, casting a warm glow over the space, it’s like coming home after a long journey.
And it’s not just the fire that warms you to your core; it’s the staff, too. From the moment you arrive, they greet you with genuine smiles and open arms, making you feel like you’re a part of the family. Whether it’s offering helpful tips on exploring the local area or simply engaging in friendly conversation, they go above and beyond to ensure that your stay is nothing short of extraordinary.
Get ready for the main event though, the room! With views that could make you forget your troubles, overlooking the Stroud Golden Valley, it’s like finding a hidden treasure.
As we stepped inside, we were greeted by a space big enough to swing a cat (not that I condone such behaviour, mind you). Seriously, though, this room was more spacious than a royal ballroom. With ample room to stretch out and twirl around without bumping into to one another, we instantly felt a sense of freedom and relaxation.
This room isn’t just any old room – oh no. It’s a dream come true, begging you to dive in and forget the world outside. We were obsessed with our snug sitting area where you can kick back with a good book or simply lose yourself in the beauty of the rolling hills beyond.
Culinary Delights: Steak and Ginger Ale, Anyone?
Dinner at Burleigh Court was a culinary adventure like no other. As we settled into our seats, surrounded by the warm glow of flickering candles, the table was set for an evening of indulgence and laughter. The ambiance was so romantic, you’d think we were dining in a scene straight out of a rom-com. But who needs a significant other when you have a good friend to share the experience with?
And then, the pièce de résistance – the food – which is testament to the culinary mastery of Head Chef Shaun Jones and his team at ‘The Burleigh’, Burleigh Court’s atmospheric, 2AA rosette oak-panelled restaurant. Each bite of my chateaubriand was a revelation, tender and succulent, sending our taste buds into a frenzy of delight. Paired with glasses of crisp ginger ale (hello sober living), the flavours danced on our palates, a delightful medley that left us craving more.
At Burleigh Court, food isn’t just sustenance; it’s an art form. With a strong emphasis on serving the best of British cuisine, Chef Jones crafts seasonal dishes that celebrate quality and authenticity. Drawing inspiration from the hotel’s on-site kitchen garden and local suppliers within a 35-mile radius, every dish tells a story of sustainability and flavour.
Chef Jones’ unwavering commitment to the ‘farm to fork’ and ‘garden to plate’ ethos, elevates every dish to a masterpiece. Take, for instance, the Tandoori Pigeon Breast, a perfect blend of flavours featuring pickled vegetables, slow-cooked yolk and a tantalising prune ketchup.
Or perhaps, you might opt for the Creedy Carver Duck, a marvel of textures and tastes, with sous vide duck breast, duck fat potato terrine, braised duck leg, pak choi and chorizo jam. Chef Jones, known for his ingenious fusion of classic regional recipes with modern culinary trends, doesn’t stop there. His ‘Nose to Tail’ approach, a tribute to rural British tradition, ensures that every part of the meticulously sourced grass-fed beef from Gloucestershire and Wiltshire Farms is utilised, minimising food waste while maximising flavour.
And if you’re like me, always in search of a fail-safe option, there’s the Affogato, a delightful combination of vanilla ice cream, biscotti and espresso, offering the perfect conclusion to an unforgettable dining experience at Burleigh Court.
At Burleigh Court, it’s all about relishing the moment, indulging in life’s finer things and creating lasting memories with the ones you hold dear. Nestled amidst four acres of meticulously landscaped gardens, the hotel offers a haven for those seeking affordable luxury and fantastic dining experiences.
And there’s more to look forward to. In early spring 2024, Burleigh Court will unveil its newest addition – the ‘Wellness Garden’. A sanctuary for the soul, this outdoor nature spa will further enhance the hotel’s ‘Eat Well, Sleep Well, Feel Well’ concept, inviting guests to rejuvenate mind, body and spirit amidst the beauty of the Cotswolds.
Oana: The Breakfast Queen
After a night of indulging in the finest cuisine the hotel had to offer, I honestly didn’t think I’d have room for another bite. But oh, how wrong I was!
Our mornings were brightened by the ever-cheerful Oana, whose hospitality was as heartwarming as her delicious breakfast spreads. It wasn’t just the food that made Oana’s breakfasts special; it was her genuine warmth and hospitality. With each plate she served, she sprinkled a little extra sunshine onto our plates, making us feel right at home in this countryside haven.
Oana wasn’t just the Breakfast Queen; she was the heart and soul of our morning ritual, ensuring that each day started with a smile and ended with a satisfied belly. So here’s to Oana – may her breakfasts be as legendary as her hospitality for years to come!
Exploring Cotswolds’ Treasures
From wandering through picturesque parks to getting lost in charming boutiques, every moment was filled with laughter and discovery and Burleigh Court was the perfect base for our 48 hours in the Cotswolds.
Looking back, our stay at Burleigh Court was nothing short of magical. From the warm hospitality to the mouthwatering cuisine and whimsical surroundings, it was an adventure we’ll cherish forever. Here’s to many more Cotswolds escapades – and hopefully another encounter with Oana’s legendary breakfasts!
A one-night B&B stay based on a Cosy Room is priced from £119 for two adults sharing. There is a minimum two-night stay on Friday and Saturday nights. A two-course meal starts from around £30.
To book a table or stay at Burleigh Court, call 01453 883 804, email reservations@burleighcourtcotswolds.co.uk, or visit www.burleighcourtcotswolds.co.uk.
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