There are some places that feel instantly familiar the moment you arrive — and Donnington & Co. in Berkshire is one of them. Reimagined from the much-loved Donnington Valley Hotel & Spa, the newly relaunched retreat feels fresh and contemporary while keeping the warmth and personality that made it such a favourite in the first place. Naturally, I packed a weekend bag, grabbed my walking boots (and yes, thought about how much Charlie would love the countryside), and headed to Newbury for a cosy TeamCocoPup escape.
If you’re searching for the best dogfriendly hotels, this countryside retreat deserves a spot right at the top.
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First impressions
The drive alone sets the tone. Rolling Berkshire countryside unfolds in every direction, the kind of landscape that immediately slows your pace and lowers your shoulders. Pulling up to Donnington & Co., the first thing I noticed was the sense of calm, no grand theatrics, just understated elegance and a warm welcome that felt genuinely personal.
The thoughtful renovation of the common areas, completed in mid-2025, has transformed the hotel into a haven of Scandi-cool calm. Think minimalist fireplaces, sleek contemporary décor, soft neutral palettes and beautifully designed communal spaces that feel airy, cosy and quietly stylish all at once. Among Berkshire hotels, this refreshed design really stands out, giving the hotel a modern identity while still feeling warm and welcoming.
Interestingly, the bedrooms remain largely in their classic style for now, with just two suites fully renovated. It creates an intriguing contrast between the fresh, minimalist public spaces and the more traditional comfort of the rooms, a reminder of the hotel’s heritage as it continues its evolution.
The room
My room fell into the quiet luxury category perfectly: crisp linens, calming interiors and the kind of bed that practically whispers cancel your plans and stay in. The hotel has over 100 bedrooms ranging from Simple rooms to Splendid Suites, but what they all share is a thoughtful, restorative feel.
Little details matter here. Temple Spa products in the bathroom, soft lighting, plush textures and a layout designed for switching off. After a long travel schedule, it felt like the perfect place to reset.
The spa
The spa facilities feel like a full wellness circuit designed to slow you down properly. There’s a serene pool for gentle swims, a steam room, sauna and an aroma room that smells like instant calm. It’s the kind of place where you move from heat to water to relaxation lounge and suddenly realise you’ve lost all sense of time.
What I loved most is how democratic the spa menu is. Whether you want a full day of indulgence or a quick recharge, there’s something for every schedule and budget. The treatment list ranges from indulgent spa packages to 25-minute flash treatments, perfect if you want maximum relaxation without committing an entire day.
We opted for two of the shorter treatments: the AAAh treatment and a back and shoulder massage, both 25 minutes each. And honestly? Proof that great things come in small packages. In under an hour we felt completely reset.
The cherry on top: every treatment ends with a complimentary glass of prosecco. Because hydration is important… in all forms.
Another lovely detail: the spa and fitness centre aren’t just for guests. They’re open to memberships, and it’s clear the local Newbury community really embraces the space. During our visit there was even a soup kitchen event taking place, a reminder that the hotel is genuinely woven into the local community rather than feeling like a standalone retreat. It adds a warmth and authenticity you can really feel.
Dining
By day, Bar and Mezzanine bring a completely different energy. It’s casual, sociable and sunshine-filled — the kind of place where time disappears over wood-fired pizzas, burgers and sharing boards.
By night, it’s a convivial dining space which has been redesigned with scandi-inspired elements, centred around a striking black fireplace that feels both sociable and intimate.
The menu celebrates British produce and simple pleasures done exceptionally well. Think comforting classics, beautifully presented seasonal dishes and a wine list that makes lingering over dinner very easy.
One of the biggest surprises of the stay was discovering The Post, the estate’s dedicated weddings and events venue. Widely regarded as one of the best wedding venues in the UK, the team hosts around 200 weddings a year — and the experience shows.
TeamCocoPup approved 🐾
And yes — the most important guest review of all: Charlie would absolutely approve.
Charlie was welcomed with his own dog bed and happily allowed in the bar area, which makes such a difference when travelling with your pup. Countryside walks by day, cosy drinks by night, the dream dog weekend.
If you’re researching dog-friendly hotels UK, this is the kind of stay that ticks every box. It’s rare to find best pet-friendly hotels that balance luxury, spa experiences and true dog-friendly hospitality, but this is absolutely one of them. Among Berkshire hotels, it stands out as one of the best dogfriendly hotels for couples, friends and pups alike.
What I loved most about Donnington & Co. is its confidence. It doesn’t try too hard. There’s no flash, no fuss — just thoughtful details, warm service and spaces designed for genuine relaxation.
For anyone searching Berkshire hotels, best pet-friendly hotels, or the best dogfriendly hotels, this countryside escape delivers in every way. And honestly? I left already planning my return.
For more information visit https://donnington.co and for Spa reservations: 01635 551188 or visit https://donnington.co/spa
Want more inspiration for dogfriendly travel? Then check out our other TeamCocopup stories here and don’t forget to follow our doggy adventures on @TeamCocopup
