The Retreat at Elcot Park, located in the beautiful Berkshire countryside, has a rich and storied history.
The Estate was originally purchased by Anthony Bushby Bacon, the son of a wealthy Welsh industrialist, from Charles Dundas, 1st Baron Amesbury, in 1772. The house itself was built in 1817 and has since seen a variety of notable owners and residents.
In 1844, Lady Elizabeth Shelley, the mother of the famous poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, acquired the property. She moved there with her two unmarried daughters, Hellen and Margaret, following the death of her husband, Timothy Shelley. The estate became a place of literary significance, with Mary Shelley, the author of “Frankenstein,” visiting her mother-in-law and sisters-in-law at Elcot Park.
This 18th-century country house has been meticulously restored and reimagined by the Signet Collection, which also owns the renowned Mitre at Hampton Court. The Retreat at Elcot Park boasts 55 individually styled rooms and suites, each designed to provide a unique and comfortable stay.
The interior of the hotel is a harmonious blend of classic elegance and contemporary design. Comfortable seating areas makes you feel like being in someone’s home and with the added bonus of being decorated for Christmas. The public spaces are adorned with tasteful décor, featuring a mix of antique furnishings and modern art pieces and very electric. We were welcomed with a glass of wine after our arduous journey thanks to storm Bert only to find my room was not ready.
The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated by Taylor & Turner, with each one offering a distinct character using playful colours and upcycled antiques. I stayed in the Bushby Bacon Suite, with an opulent king-sized four-poster bed and a further extra-large bathroom with a hand-painted standalone bathtub, twin sinks and a bathroom in a bathroom with toilet, sink and walk in shower all with bespoke Bramley toiletries, bathrobe and slippers.
Being a dog friendly hotel and booked via Pets Pyjamas who curate the best dog friendly accommodation that offers the warmest welcome to dogs. Rupert had his own bed, water and food bowls, treats and a toy. There was also a separate adjoining room with bunkbeds and the suite had two separate entrances, overlooking the front lawn and driveway so idea for a family. A welcome bottle of port which made up for the room not being ready, Lavazza coffee machine and a pantry outside full of treats and drinks for guests to raid.
One of the standout features of The Retreat at Elcot Park is its extensive range of amenities. Included is the Signet Spa, a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation, offering a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body therapies. The spa also features a hydrotherapy pools, a sauna, a steam room, and a state-of-the-art gym.
Unfortunately the weather was not kind to us and we could not use the heated outdoor infinity pool, tennis court, nor croquet lawn. There is also a walled working garden and a children’s zone, making it an ideal destination for families
Dining at The Retreat at Elcot Park offers two fantastic eating venues to choose from. The 1772 Brasserie with its all-day dining with a menu that showcases locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavours and a dog friendly restaurant. For a more exotic culinary experience, Yu serves pan-Asian cuisine in a stylish and contemporary setting. Both restaurants provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a meal with friends or family.
I had big expectations for our dinner and will be honest there were a few niggles whereby I had to send back my starter as it was cold, we had a side plate for bread and there were butter pats but never offered any roll. The wine we ordered was unavailable, so we had to resort to our third choice and although the first glass was poured we had to help ourselves for the reminder of the bottle which is not what I expect to be doing in this type of restaurant. That being said the rest of the food and meal was enjoyable and breakfast made up for the disappointment of dinner.
The hotel is also well-equipped for business travelers, providing a variety of meeting and event spaces, such as an inviting library. The Courtyard, a multifunctional space, features a deli and a hair salon, making it perfect for both professional and leisure activities. With welly boots on hand for muddy treks and electric bikes for exploring the countryside, its proximity to Newbury and Hungerford offers a convenient and appealing option for corporate gatherings and retreats.
In summary, The Retreat at Elcot Park is a luxurious and inviting destination that offers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind at the spa, enjoy a delicious meal, or explore the beautiful Berkshire countryside, this hotel has something for everyone.
Its unique character, friendly service, and extensive range of amenities makes it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travel.