- By Aubrey Jackson
- home, International travel destinations, London
Hi babes! Writing this from England, as I check in to the Cliveden House in West Berkshire, the beautiful English countryside.
If you’re visiting the UK for the first time, you can be sure to visit London and see all of the hot spots, but I highly recommend adding the English countryside to your itinerary as it a serene experience.
Not to mention, the Cliveden House is less than an hour away from London, perfectly situated only 20 minutes drive from London Heathrow Airport and puts you less than 30 minutes away from Windsor Castle where the royal family resides.
The Cliveden House is home to more 300 years of history. The estate has housed dukes, earls, viscounts and a prince and its the same hotel where Meghan Markle and her mom stayed before the royal wedding.
This five-star Relais & Châteaux hotel, with more 40 rooms, sits on more than 300 acres and was Cliveden House was first owned by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham, who had commissioned the property as a monument to his mistress Anna Maria, Countess of Shrewsbury, in the late 17th century.
I know… I know… scandelous, but google it, its all true and public knowledge ha ha
At the time, the Duke imagined the Cliveden House to be his private eden, away from his wife.
Since the 1980s, Cliveden House has operated as a luxury hotel. Its luxurious suites are reminders of its marquee guest list, each named and styled after one of Cliveden’s star visitors. (The hotel has hosted every British monarch since George I, in addition to Winston Churchill, President Roosevelt, and Charlie Chaplin.)
During my visit, I stayed in the Mountbatten suite that pays homage to the 1st Earl Mountbatten of Burma.
Architecturally, the Manor itself is a combination of Italianate and Renaissance Revival Architecture. The house, as it is today, owes its elegant architecture to Sir Charles Barry, famous for designing the Palace of Westminster, currently known as the English Parliament in London.
When staying here you are surrounded by extensive artwork that has been beautifully preserved over the years.
I love how the suite has your name on the door, making for the perfect custom touch.
Though you’re surrounded by history, the Mountbatten suite perfectly blends the past with the present. This iPad-like technology is found in the room and can be used to make room service orders or even spa appointments with the touch of a button.
I can’t recommend the Mountbatten deluxe suite enough. With its luxurious high ceilings, plush bedding, original works of art, and spacious lounge areas. This suite is perfect for an English escape to the countryside.
When staying at the Cliveden House, you have to treat yourself to their luxurious spa. As a guest you can enjoy exclusive access to the spa alongside Cliveden Club Members. Let the teams expertise melt your stresses away and unwind at their famous outdoor swimming pool.
Dinner reservations at the Cliveden Dining Room is a must. It was once the Drawing Room of the house and is now a stunning south-facing spacious room that overlooks the nineteenth-century Parterre, the National Trust gardens, and River Thames.
Afternoon Tea served Monday – Saturday (12pm – 2.30pm)
Dinner served Monday – Sunday (6pm-9pm)
Sunday Lunch served Sunday (12pm – 4pm)
I highly recommend their double baked cheese souffle. Also great to know that the menus are 30% vegan/plant-based throughout the year.
@imaubreyjackson Want to experience #England like a royal?! 🇬🇧👑 Here’s how I’d plan your stay. #clivedenhouse #clivedennationaltrust #berkshire #windsorcastle #luxurytravel #luxuryhotelsandresorts #london #westberkshire #luxurytravelagent
♬ original sound - Aubrey | Travel & Lifestyle
Things to see and do
From March 24th onward, you can take a private boat ride along the River Thames, including a picnic aboard. This is the perfect activity for the spring season and is worth experiencing when visiting the countryside.
During your trip, you can visit London and make a day out of sightseeing! Be sure to check out Big Ben, London Eye, Buckingham Palace, London Bridge and more.
DINE
@imaubreyjackson Hey babes! Lets grab a cocktail 🥂 at #mrsriotlondon 🇬🇧 #traveltiktok #cocktails #londonfoodie #thingstodoinlondon #travelguide
♬ original sound - Aubrey | Travel & Lifestyle
@imaubreyjackson SPICE UP YOUR LIFE 🇬🇧🙈 come with me to the St. Pancras hotel in London where the #spicegirls shot their music video back in the 90s. #visitlondon #stpancrashotel #bookingoffice1869 #londonhotel #londondining #thingstodoinlondon #traveltiktok
♬ original sound - Aubrey | Travel & Lifestyle
Final thoughts ...
Overall I had an amazing time in NYC and thoroughly my time at the Cliveden House.
Share in the comments below, would you book a stay at this iconic mansion turned-luxury hotel?
If you’d like to visit the UK, but need help with planning and crafting your itinerary. You can complete a trip intake form here.
@ImAubreyJackson
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