Let me tell you a little story about the most beautiful hotel I’ve ever had the pleasure of staying in.
A night at Babington House, an exclusive hotel nestled in the Somerset countryside not far from Bath, had been on my wish list for a while. So when it came to discussing what to do for our anniversary this year, I’d whipped out our joint account card and booked us in before my other half could say “It costs HOW much?!”
When we arrived on a dreary Tuesday afternoon, not even the rain could dampen our spirits as we laid eyes on the beautiful Georgian manor house. Set amongst stunning gardens and acres of landscaped grounds, this hotel is every girl’s country-house fairytale.
The reception was grand but cosy, with a roaring fire and a sweeping staircase. The front of house staff didn’t wear a uniform, which added to the welcoming atmosphere and put a stop to those “I don’t belong in this posh establishment, my whole outfit is from Primark” kind of thoughts.
We were shown to our room, a luxurious attic room that boasted an enormous super king size bed, cosy living area with plush armchairs and a Pinterest worthy, open-plan bathing area complete with roll top bath and rainforest shower.
Once we’d investigated all the cupboards, laid on the bed to confirm that yes we can starfish in tandem, and scrolled through the complimentary movie library on the TV, we headed down to the Deli Bar for afternoon tea.
If free tea and cake doesn’t excite you then a) give this hotel a miss and b) get out. I’d be lying if I said we were restrained. But when faced with Victoria sponge, baked apple cake, carrot cake cupcakes, jammy coconut biscuits, scones and endless clotted cream, what the hell are you supposed to do except pile your plate high and get stuck in!
Bellies full, we returned to our room where I relaxed in a deep bubbly bath and tried out all the Cowshed products on offer whilst the other half watched Spectre (hello gender stereotypes). After some serious lounging, we went down to dinner in the Orangery. With its white table cloths and uniformed staff, this is a more formal area of the hotel but no less welcoming or relaxing. The food was delicious and very reasonably priced, which was a nice surprise.
After dinner, we snuggled down into bed, on a mountain of pillows and under the thick duck-down duvet. In a bed that comfortable, we were never going to be awake for long and I was soon fast asleep.
In the morning, as an anniversary treat, we ordered room service for the first time ever! Needless to say I’m never going to bother getting dressed for breakfast again. Sat in our super-soft dressing gowns, we feasted on eggs royale (for me), a full English (for him) and the full range of continental options.
Given that checkout was until 12pm, we decided to visit the spa before we left. With an indoor and outdoor pool, steam room and spa, we were spoilt for choice when it came to a bit of last minute relaxation. We opted for the outdoor pool, clocking up a few lengths in the sunshine looking out over the landscaped gardens and the countryside beyond.
Checking out at noon, we knew we’d have to come back as there was so much we hadn’t had time to do. From the bicycles and Hunter wellies available to explore the grounds, to the in-house cinema showing nightly films, to the full range of treatments available in the spa, it would hard to get bored staying here.
The thing I really loved about the hotel was the little details in the room- a full beauty station including straighteners, a Nespresso coffee machine and a Roberts radio, as well as complimentary travel sized Cowshed products (yes, they all went in my bag). It was these thoughtful touches that added to the pleasure of the stay.
I can’t wait to find an excuse for another stay here (it’s my 30th in July and I know my other half will read this – hint hint). It’s a little more expensive but totally worth the cost, even if only for the bottomless afternoon tea!
laurawriteslife 