For obvious reasons, 2020 has seen an increase in staycations like never before. We’ve ditched the boarding passes and the crying babies to see out summer in the UK, dedicated to finding the lushest, most quintessential must-stays in the English countryside.
DeVere Beaumont Estate sits in 44-acres of stunning grounds, manicured lawns and natural ponds. The centrepiece is not one stunning mansion, but two. And a chapel, if that wasn’t enough.
Originally known as Remenham, there has been an estate on this land since way back in the 14th Century. The oldest building is an ivy-clad 18th Century Victorian mansion, which was used as the former school building of Beaumont College for most of its life. In stark contrast is the Georgian White House with its stunning portico, built in 1790.
The rooms are impressive, ranging from the simple Guest Room all the way up to the Junior Suites – which have been decorated to reflect the heritage of the building. Just think huge rustic leather couches and fluffy white robes. Modern geometric bathrooms are done in soft slate greys, with claw-foot bathtubs and walk-in rainfall showers.
There are two eating options: 1705 Restaurant and Bar, and the Beaumont Restaurant. The latter is where you’ll find a locally inspired seasonal menu served throughout the day. Safety rules state that the breakfast buffet is off the cards, but diners are served at-table by the charming restaurant staff who will gear you up for the day. To keep things simple and contact-less as possible, some ordering is done via an iPad at your table, but make sure you ask for recommendations on the wine as the menu is vast and the staff are very knowledgable.
1705 Restaurant and Bar is the estate’s more formal dining option. The menu celebrates the ‘best of British’ ingredients with a flair of international cuisine. Choose from artisan stone-baked pizzas, rotisserie chickens, oriental wok pots, spicy curries – or more classic dishes with a modern edge, like a posh take on a fish finger sandwich. There are other spots around the estate where drinks and nibbles are available. A firm favourite was the Pantry – a secluded coffee lounge with a drinks station for teas, coffees and soft drinks. Some facilities like the pool are currently closed for renovation, but this is only a sign of great things to come.
The Chapel is the jewel in the crown of the estate. It doubles as an events space (the estate, understandably is popular with weddings) with an exquisite stained glass window and huge hand painted vaulted ceiling. The modernisation continues here, with private booths around the outside for quiet drinks and celebrations.
In this year of change, the DeVere group have spared no effort in making their guests feel safe. Not only are all the necessary safety measures in place at their estates, but they have launched new packages which will see 10% of each direct bedroom booking going to NHS Charities Together, which supports NHS staff and volunteers caring for COVID-19 patients.
From £179 per couple, or £229 for families, guests can book an overnight stay with a personally selected chilled drinks package, a delicious two-course takeaway dinner from their in-house chefs, as well as a ‘grab and go’ breakfast.
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