Just a one hour and thirty minute train journey away from Paddington is the lovely Hotel du Vin Cheltenham; a glorious home-from-home in the beautiful regency era town of Cheltenham.
Pat of the Hotel du Vin Group and Fraser’s Hospitality, Hotel du Vin Cheltenham occupies a beautiful building in Cheltenham’s chic Montpellier district. Picture handsome Regency-era mansions, and tree-lined crescents that look like they could’ve been lifted off the set of Bridgerton.
There are 49 individually designed bedrooms and suites, which have undergone a recent (and extensive) refurb to capture the rustic allure of country living, while still celebrating the English Heritage style of the Hotel du Vin collection.
This fabulously dog-friendly hotel is centred around a sprawling bar and restaurant and of course – an impressive wine cellar. (After all – a Hotel du Vin would not be complete without a healthy array of vintages that would impress even the most discerning wine connoisseur).
We stayed in the sprawling De Trafford Suite, which is as impressive as it sounds. Occupying the square footage of what seems like an entire London terraced house; the suite features vibrant decoupage wallcoverings with English antique prints that are equal parts eclectic, joyful and timeless.
A rich tapestry inspired by Mulberry Home’s flying ducks’ prints, inspire colour scheme of the room, which blends duck egg blue with sage green and bright orange accents. There is of course, a large king sized bed complete with headboard by Colefax and Fowler, a meticulously preserved wooden mantlepiece; and a newly refurbished bathroom with tiles form Solus ceramics.
There are plenty of creature comforts too. Handsprung mattresses, fine Egyptian linens, plasma TVs and a handsome rolltop bath, which is a thing of beauty and the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring.
There is also a completely separate seating area; perfect for getting lost in a good book or film. For Charlie, we were greeted with a comfy dog bed, dog bowls and doggy care package complete with snacks and tennis ball (his favourite). So – he truly did feel like four-legged VIP from the moment we check in.
Not every space is dog friendly though, which is worth noting. But even if the main Bistro du Vin restaurant isn’t dog friendly per se, pet travellers can enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel du Vin Cheltenham upstairs in one of two lounge areas or at the bar.
Guests who are staying in one of Hotel du Vin’s inclusive packages can enjoy three course meals as part of their stay. Certain dishes though like the steaks, scallops and beef bourguignonne come with added supplements, but with most dishes priced below £20 – the entire menu Bistro du Vin’s menu is fabulously affordable.
Beyond the Hotel du Vin, Cheltenham has plenty to explore for pet friendly travellers. There are plenty of charming cafes and restaurants, and glorious parks that are within walking distance from the hotel – perfect for a day out in the sun with your pup. A lot of the cute boutiques, complete with stylish knick knacks, are pet friendly too. There are also a few noteworthy National Heritage Houses and the always enjoyable Cotswolds Wildlife Park which are within a short drive away.
Overall, if you’re looking for an idyllic slow weekend getaway with your four-legged pooch, look no further than the Hotel du Vin. Excellent service, luxurious rooms and a delectable menu of food and wine, Hotel du Vin is a veritable home away from home in the heart of Cheltenham and we shall surely be returning.
A 1-night stay at Hotel du Vin Cheltenham costs from £110 in March. Book online at https://www.hotelduvin.com/locations/cheltenham/