Weekend Getaway: Coworth Park, Ascot

Absolutely London visits Coworth Park, a luxurious manor house in idyllic grounds

By Abbie Schofield

Weekend Getaway: Coworth Park Review

The Hotel

This striking Georgian manor sits in 240 acres of land — think flowering meadows, intricate rose gardens and a peaceful lake. Despite the grandiose historical exterior, decor inside is stylish and modern with nods to its rural surroundings. Super-comfy beds, huge copper bathtubs and fluffy robes make it clear relaxation is a priority at Coworth Park. Separate to the manor house are more private two-story cottages, where rustic charm meets tranquil luxury.

The Location

You’ll forget about the stresses of the city as soon as you arrive in this pastoral paradise. A short way from Ascot, Coworth Park is around an hour’s drive from London making it the perfect choice for a weekend escape. There are also number of stunning parks and gardens nearby, notably Windsor Great Park.

What to Do

Begin your bucolic retreat with a roam around the grounds (use one of the hotel’s walking maps for guidance), or borrow bicycles to explore on two wheels; find a serene spot to enjoy a picnic hamper prepared by the chef. There’s two polo fields, a croquet lawn and tennis courts as well as horse riding, although that’s currently on pause for beginners due to Covid precautions. On weekends, you can practise al fresco yoga in the Lime Grove, and for the extra-adventurous, the hotel can arrange archery and clay pigeon shooting. On rainy days, head to the on-site spa for a swim in the amethyst-adorned pool followed by a relaxing massage; in keeping with social distancing guidelines, all spa visits must be pre-booked.

What to Eat

Chef Adam Smith is at the helm of Michelin-starred Restaurant Coworth Park. Reopening this month, guests can enjoy an elegant evening in the striking dining room while sampling fine cuisine made with seasonal, British produce. For a more casual experience, The Barn is a short golf buggy ride away from the main house, serving comforting — but nonetheless delicious — brasserie-style dishes with a beautiful view of the grounds. There’s also a classic afternoon tea service accompanied by a live pianist at weekends, perfect for relaxing after a day of country pursuits. Pre-dinner, don’t forget to head to the terrace and sip a cocktail while admiring the glorious gardens at sunset.