Bite Autumn 2012

bite travel

Room or the more relaxed Brasserie. The Beaufort boasts stunning original oak panelling and an impressive carved wooden Tudor fireplace and stained glass windows. The a la carte menu crafted by head chef David Kelman features classic British dishes with a modern twist, using the finest local Cotswold ingredients and accompanied by fine wines from the extensive wine list. It was recently awarded three coveted AA Rosettes. The Brasserie is decorated in a tasteful sporting theme with, unsurprisingly, numerous pieces of horse-racing memorabilia on the wall. Dishes include burgers, steaks, pasta and a variety of local meats as well as great seafood. The Bar has a great whisky selection, and also rustles together fabulous cocktails – we were impressed by the mojitos; the best we’ve had in the UK. To round off the relaxing, decadent, spoiling experience of Ellenborough Park, of course there’s a spa too! The facilities include a Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, tropical experience showers and a juice bar.There are seven cosy treatment rooms in which an extensive range of massages, facials and body treatments are offered. I tried the Discovery Prescription Facial, which uses the delicious BABOR product range – the therapist adjusts the treatment according to your skin’s needs, be it dry, sensitive, oily or aging. It’s a very gentle treatment, so much so that I fell asleep,which is virtually unheard off during a facial! Deep cleansing and exfoliation prepares the skin for massage and intense moisturising, and leaves your face radiant and skin feels plump and restored. The BABOR range smells beautiful, thanks to the natural plant-based ingredients. It’s not remotely aggressive; in fact even the enzyme peel was unnoticeable, but certainly worked well. If you feel the urge to step outside the haven of Ellenborough Park, Cheltenham is well worth exploring – particularly the Montpellier district with its delis, galleries and boutiques.The hotel can also arrange an array of activities, from clay-pigeon shooting at the nearby Ian Coley Shooting School, polo lessons at the local club, or in the summer maybe have a go at croquet on the lawn followed by a truly English afternoon tea.... www.ellenboroughpark.com

be the Great Hall, with a soaring ceiling, roaring log fire and minstrels gallery. A harp sits in the corner, and intentionally mismatched furniture invites you to curl up with afternoon tea or a good book. It’s easy to forget that you’re in a hotel and a pleasant reminder when a helpful member of staff offers to ply you with warm scones and tea. Outside, there are rose gardens, herb gardens and topiary, and the slate- lined outdoor pool is kept at a pleasant 30 degrees all year round, flanked by loungers for summer sunbathing. Next to the pool is a well equipped gym, or for exercise and fresh air, there are plenty of footpaths nearby, with panoramic views over Cheltenham Racecourse and the Malvern Hills in the distance. If you forgot your outdoor gear or don’t have any, fear not – there’s a boot room that puts many shooting lodges to shame, stocked with Dubarry jackets and boots, and Hunter wellies. The bedrooms are individually designed by Nina Campbell, and successfully mix country house style with modern function.There are 62 altogether,

including four suites, spread throughout the Main House and three separate wings. Rooms feature huge bespoke Hypnos beds, crisp white Egyptian cotton bedding and feather duvets and pillows. The bathrooms are almost as large as the bedrooms, with underfloor heating and scrummy Penhaligon’s Racquets Formula toiletries. Our bathroom had a gorgeous roll top bath, perfect for a post-walk, pre- dinner soak. For dining, Ellenborough Park offers the choice of the formal Beaufort Dining