dual aspect window ; one offering views to the countryside beyond the gravel and one a sneak peak at that wooden-door , arched entrance . It has been updated with comfortable mod cons – a large bath , chrome shower fixtures and double sink complete with a host of Champneys products – but still held true to its more historic roots in the form of a beautiful ensuite housed in the turret walls , original windows and stone surrounds . To the left , we entered the bedroom , to find a spacious lounge area complete with nespresso pods and a record player , a large king size bed with plump pillows and Champney ’ s robes just calling out to be worn , and stunning original dual-aspect windows offering breathtaking views across the grounds , gardens and countryside beyond .
One of the key things for me to stress is that Eastwell Manor is not just a staying guest ’ s paradise . Indeed , day visitors who are lucky to snare an in-demand booking can visit for drinks in the bar or terrace , a renowned champagne afternoon tea in the fireside lounge or can visit for dinner in the Brasserie at The Manor restaurant .
One of the best changes of the refurbishment programme , The Manor ’ s entire dining concept has been modernised , offering a modern British with a European twist menu in a contemporary and welcoming space . The original stone fireplaces and windows are offset with luxe neutral drapes , whilst tables offer bench seating , privacy screens and a few private scalloped booths thrown in for good measure . Naturally offering privacy before distancing
was ‘ the ’ thing , it means that the dining room was already well prepared to accommodate changes to service and seating whilst not compromising its well executed menu .
Taking a seat at a table for two , we were welcomed by the friendly team . As is the norm in the sector at present , staff shortages were acknowledged . But the hard work and commitment of those staff on duty was testament to the team ' s commitment to reopening with substance . And the dishes did not disappoint .
The scallops were perfectly seared paired with crispy pork belly and delicious butternut squash puree , while the cheese souffle was a huge mountain of oozing cheese indulgence , light as air , but full of flavour . For our main course we opted for the oak smoked beef brisket on-the-bone sharer and were delighted by the rich smoky flavours of the expertly cooked beef which was served with lashings of bbq sauce , coleslaw , cornichons , and triple cooked chips . Desserts continued in the same tasty vein and we pretty much licked the plates of our respective picks ; a fig bakewell tart with caramel ice cream and the delicious summer flavours of the strawberry and white chocolate cheesecake with red berry compote , mini macaroon and berry meringue .
Being guests also gives you access to the whole grounds , rose gardens , lawn games and the glorious outdoor pool , which has been our go to place throughout the recent heatwave . Not forgetting the first-class main spa itself . We relaxed postbreakfast with a swim , refreshed in the hydro-pool and indulged in one final treat , a wonderful Champneys full body massage *.
From afternoon tea , drinks and dining , to day spa packages or overnight stays , there will be something for you at this quintessentially English manor hotel and spa , the only question is when are you going ?
* Due to current restrictions time slots apply to spa usage and treatments must be pre booked in advance .
Eastwell Manor Eastwell Park Boughton Lees Ashford TN25 4HT 0343 224 1700 reservations @ eastwellmanor . co . uk www . champneys . com / hotels / eastwell-manor
eastwell . manor eastwellmanor champneysspas
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