Cliveden House

Berkshire, England

Overview

Dating back to the late 17th century, this historical estate has long been dedicated to the pursuit of pleasure, power, and politics amongst the world’s elite. Presiding over 376 acres of land on the banks of the River Thames, this is a house fit for royalty.

Key Features

  • 48 bedrooms and suites, including a 3-bedroom cottage
  • The Astor Grill offers a more casual space to dine with a mixture of classic American and British dishes, while the Cliveden Dining Room serves elevated fare rooted in local and seasonal produce
  • Situated in over 300 acres of protected National Trust formal gardens and woodland
  • An award-winning spa and an iconic, historically listed outdoor swimming pool

Commanding panoramic views across the Berkshire countryside and the River Thames, Cliveden House is surrounded by hundreds of sprawling acres of National Trust protected formal gardens and woodland. Just down the road from Windsor Castle, this is one of the most lavish country house hotels in England and has hosted almost every British monarch since George I.

There are a total of 48 bedrooms and suites, each named after a prominent figure from Cliveden’s past – from Churchill and Chaplin to Astor and the Prince of Wales. Each is individually designed, with ranging colour schemes, but all feature unique elements, antique furniture and paintings, as well as a four-poster bed and a traditional fireplace. For families, groups, or couples looking for a romantic hideaway, opt for Spring Cottage – a three-bedroom cottage right on the water.

Entering into the dramatic, red-hued Great Hall, priceless tapestries and imposing suits of armour from the 18th century set the tone. Throughout the hotel, portraits and landscapes adorn the walls, with chandeliers and elaborate floral displays in abundance.

Hidden in a beautiful garden setting, the spa is a serene space covered with roses and lavender beds. There’s a gym, indoor heated pool, infrared sauna, aromatherapy steam room, seven treatment rooms and tennis courts, but the centrepiece is undoubtedly the historically listed outdoor swimming pool – where the infamous Profumo affair began.

Dining at Cliveden is inspired by the seasons. The Dining Room innovatively works with locally sourced produce in what was originally the Drawing Room. Overlooking the Parterre, the gardens, and the Thames, it serves elevated fare prepared with locally-sourced and fresh produce in the grandest of settings.

For a more casual experience, The Astor Grill is located in the old stable block and has adopted an equestrian theme in its décor. In a nod to Cliveden’s diverse owners and residents, the menu is a mix of American and British dishes.

A wooden boat on calm water, surrounded by lush greenery. The boat features a wicker basket and a bottle of champagne on a table, with apples nearby. Bright blue sky visible above.

Why we love it

Cliveden is arguably one of England’s most opulent country house hotels. Playing host to every British monarch since George I as well as Churchill, President Roosevelt, and The Beatles, you’ll feel like royalty staying here. If the sun’s out, don’t miss the chance to boat down the river: sip champagne on a vintage launch as you enjoy the English countryside.

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