It was the dog-friendly policy that was the lure. All dog owners will know the heart-sinking moment when your search for a weekend away leads you to a venue that is otherwise perfect only for you to find out that dogs are indeed unwelcome.
Not so at Charingworth Manor. Not only are dog-friendly terrace rooms set aside for us dog owners, but dogs are welcomed heartily in the drawing room and lounge. This was music to my ears. Keeping the dog away from the splendid afternoon tea was another challenge entirely.
A jewel in the Classic Lodges Crown, Charingworth Manor wears its grandeur lightly. Situated at the head of a majestic sweeping drive, the glorious vistas of the Cotswolds surrounding on all sides, Charingworth feels like a home from home the moment you walk through the front door.
Staff of the best kind – efficient, present but not overly so – swept us under their wing, and through the warren-like corridors to our gloriously appointed ‘Masters’ room. Opening the terrace doors, and in spite of the torrential downpour one cannot fail to be blown away by the view.
L’Occitane toiletries, and Cotswold mineral water are little touches of luxury that make all the difference.
We were there for strictly r&r but there’s a capacious swimming pool, and gym if you are that way inclined.
At dinner in the rosetted restaurant, we were treated like kings…or family, which was welcome, and extraordinary considering this was our first visit. We loved our table, and our request to have the same table throughout the duration of our two night stay was gladly honoured.
The menus and wine lists are considered and unpretentious. Seasonal and local produce prevails, and our beef blade was the most superb thing we’d tasted in a very long time.
In terms of surrounding attractions, the delightful village of Chipping Camden is close by, Stratford is close enough to make a morning trip possible. The staff are on hand to fill you in on other local attractions.
Accommodation and dining packages are available, so contact the venue direct to find out details of these.
We’ll definitely be back.
Claire Meadows
Charingworth Manor
Chipping Campden | The Cotswolds |Gloucestershire |GL55 6NS
08446 932 961*
(*Calls will be charged at 5p per minute plus your telephone provider’s access charge)
afternyneblog.wordpress.com 