Cliveden House

‘Expensive but worth every penny,’ say guests seduced by the ‘beautiful’ grounds, ‘stunning’ bedrooms, ‘superb’ meals and ‘attentive, personable’ staff at this history-rich Italianate mansion on the River Thames. ‘Service was exceptional throughout our stay, down to the person who poured the milk in my husband’s teacup at breakfast.’ Enter the Great Hall, with its panelled ceiling, massive fireplace, suits of armour, paintings and antiques; then check in to one of the handsome bedrooms ‘lacking in nothing’. ‘Opulent Lady Astor overlooks the gardens, Lord Astor is more austere; there are many others, all different,’ say Guide inspectors. More bedrooms have been redecorated this year as part of the hotel’s extensive modernisation; three new rooms have been added. The famous Cliveden Spa is also now open after an extensive refurbishment. In the original drawing room, overlooking the 19th-century parterre, delight in chef André Garrett’s ‘excellent’ modern meals, perhaps grilled asparagus, crisp pheasant’s egg; English rose veal, Porthilly oyster tartare. The informal Astor Grill, which opened in spring 2016, serves classic American and British dishes. Kevin Brooke was appointed General Manager in 2016. Under the same private ownership as Chewton Glen, New Milton (see entry). (AT, and others)