Hambleton Hall - Rutland

César award in 1985

'There can be few better country house hotels,' says a visitor this year to Tim and Stefa Hart's imposing Victorian mansion in 'beautiful gardens' overlooking Rutland Water. The house, 'which represents the best of Victorian building', has been decorated in classical style by Stefa Hart; there are fine fabrics, antiques, open fires in the 'relaxing' public rooms. 'The friendly staff are always on hand,' is another comment. In the 'traditional' dining room, the chef, Aaron Patterson, has a Michelin star for 'consistently excellent' classic cooking with modern touches (dishes might include salad of crab, brown meat ice cream; roast loin of venison, sloe gin jelly, chocolate and passion fruit sauce). 'The wine list is a delight; service is unfussy but attentive; portions are beautifully judged; one is well fed but never over-full,' says a trusted reporter. The bedrooms have a floral decor; the best overlook Rutland Water. The 'leisurely' breakfast has home-made granola, fruit compotes, yogurt and freshly squeezed juices. 'Expensive, but an experience to remember.' (Jon Holmes, Robert Gower, Anthony Bradbury)

Hambleton Hall - Rutland

  • Everthing about this quintessential country hotel is a class act. The location, the decor, the service, and the food and wine combine to give a memorable stay. Over the last 23 years we have never been disappointed.

    Michael Raeside Auld, 03/03/2012

  • We have been going for over 15 years and this hotel remains our favourite for size, accommodation and food. It is the benchmark against which we judge others when we stay in England for aa short break. As usual the accommodation was excellent (save only a shower that was rather hot),the food was excellent too, and the service faultless.

    Roderic Rennison, 03/07/2011

  • This remains a superb hotel - though it is certainly expensive. Staff are plentiful and always available and friendly. It is an experience to remember to be able to stay here. A most splendid meal. I can't think of anything to compain about!

    AVB, 10/06/2010

  • Very comfy room in croquet pavilion with excellent bathroom. Also sitting room, diningroom/kitchen included-very comfy and well fitted out. The second bedroom in this pavilion not so exciting. Wonderful grounds, Rutland Water a few hundred yards away. Excellent outlook and walks. Food very good, with informal,smiling service from everyone. No asking for tips.

    Alec Frank, 13/05/2010

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Local attractions

Oakham
Small market town.
Belvoir Castle
A 19th-century castle, with a sculpture garden.
Exton Church
According to Pevsner, “There are few churches in England in which English sculpture from the 16th century to the 18th century can be enjoyed so much”.

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Contact Details

Hambleton Hall - Rutland

Oakham HAMBLETON Rutland England LE15 8TH

Telephone

01572 756991

Website

www.hambletonhall.com

Further Information

Bedrooms

17, 2-bedroomed suite in pavilion.

Open

all year.

Facilities

lift, ramps, hall, drawing room, bar, restaurant, 2 private dining rooms, civil wedding licence, 17-acre grounds (swimming pool, heated May-Sept, tennis).

Background music

none.

Children

only children 'of a grown-up age' in restaurant in evening.

Dogs

not allowed in public rooms, nor unattended in bedrooms.

Credit cards

all major cards.

Prices

[2011] B&B (continental) £117.50- £200 per person, set dinner £38.50-£67, full alc £90, seasonal breaks, Christmas/New Year packages, 1-night bookings sometimes refused.