The Gentleman Magazine Issue 9 | June 2018 | Page 63

Literary Legacy – Oxford The five star Macdonald Randolph Hotel sits amidst the dreaming spires of Oxford – the inspiration for author Colin Dexter’s Inspector Morse novels, and home to both JRR Tolkien and CS Lewis. The literary legacy of the hotel can be experienced in the Morse Bar, while Champagne, gin and cocktails are served in the newly-opened Cartoon Bar. Not to forget the fine dining in the Acanthus Restaurant. Guests can step out into Oxford and immerse themselves in its history and architecture. Stroll amongst the water meadows or try punting on the River Isis then return to the sumptuous luxury and comfort of Oxford’s most highly-regarded hotel. Boutique Charm – Chester Set amongst the famous city walls, Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel in Chester offers contemporary comforts at the heart of this historic city. Guests can shop and dine in the half- timbered buildings that line The Rows, have a flutter at the race course or take a cruise along the River Dee. After a busy day of exploring, they can head to the 1650 St John’s Restaurant within Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel, where, over two-for- one cocktails between 5pm and 7pm, they can start planning their evenings. Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel Cityscape offer starts from £99 Midlands Powerhouse – Birmingham Macdonald Randolph Hotel Cityscape offer starts from £249 Romans and Romance – Bath It was during the reign of the Emperor Nero that the Romans began to develop a complex of pools, fed by the hot springs that bubble up beneath the city. And it was Jane Austin who went on to admire the elegant terraces that grace this favourite Georgian watering hole. Bath is a city steeped in atmosphere and at the luxurious, five star Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel, home of The Vellore restaurant, visitors can take restorative treatments and relax in the outdoor hydrotherapy pool before setting out to explore. There are historic sites and stunning architecture around every corner, along with chic shops and, of course, visitors can still take in the waters at the original Roman baths. Macdonald Burlington Hotel in Birmingham is located amongst the architectural splendour of New Street. It makes the ideal base for exploring the city and the surrounding landmarks, such as Warwick Castle. The hotel enjoys close proximity to world-class shopping and entertainment, as well as some of country’s largest sporting and music events and exhibitions. Macdonald Burlington Hotel Cityscape offer starts from £79 In the Footsteps of the Bard – Stratford-upon-Avon Macdonald Alveston Manor Hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon exudes Tudor charm, and it’s just a short walk from both the RSC Theatre and the historic houses associated with Shakespeare. The hotel is set in landscaped gardens and the Vital Health and Wellbeing Club is perfect for a workout or a pampering session. Macdonald Alveston Manor Hotel Cityscape offer starts from £99 Visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon are spoiled for choice because the town is also home to Macdonald Swan’s Nest Hotel. Set on the banks of the beautiful River Avon, this 17th century red brick townhouse has undergone a £1.3million refurbishment and its Le Bistrot Pierre Restaurant is the place to enjoy a sumptuous dinner and recharge batteries after a day of sight- seeing and theatre-going. Macdonald Swan’s Nest Hotel Cityscape offer starts from £99 For a memorable break, and to use the Macdonald Hotels & Resorts Cityscape promotion, guests simply have to insert the promo code CITY when booking online. More information can be found online at: Macdonald Bath Hotel Cityscape offer starts from £149 www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/cityscape The Gentleman Magazine | 63