A Girls’ Trip to Calcot & Spa: The Perfect November Getaway in the Cotswolds

*This article discusses a PR stay

There is something especially beautiful about the Cotswolds in November. The soft, misty mornings, the hedgerows brushed with copper, and the quiet stillness that settles over the fields. It’s a particular landscape that feels made for autumn and early winter. I’ve always found this part of England at its most compelling outside of summer, when the moodiness of the weather compliments the warmth of the indoors. And nowhere does that balance of drama and comfort quite like Calcot & Spa.

So, after months of saying we must go in the group chat, my friend Isobel and I finally made good on the promise. We packed our bags, left the city behind, and found ourselves arriving at one of Tetbury’s most inviting hotels for a few days of rest, indulgence, and slow-living. All thanks to Bloxham PR.

Tetbury in November: A Town Wrapped in Festive Charm

On our first morning, we wandered into Tetbury itself, a town where the golden stone buildings seem to glow against the grey sky. The shop windows were already dressed in festive finery, and there was a sense of anticipation in the air, as though the whole town was leaning gently into the season.

We browsed the beautifully curated pieces at French Grey, a treasure trove of homewares and gifts perfect for anyone who loves that soft, understated country style. Then came a visit to the Highgrove Shop, where we picked up a few thoughtful stocking fillers, small but meaningful pieces that support the Prince’s Foundation and celebrate British craftsmanship.

Tetbury’s antique shops, of course, are in a league of their own. You could easily lose an entire morning exploring their shelves of polished wood, gleaming silver, and the kind of curious old objects that carry stories with them.

And then, at 11am on the 11th of November, the entire town paused. A single gunshot rang out to mark the beginning of the minute’s silence for Remembrance Day. Everyone stopped - locals, visitors, shopkeepers, children walking to school. It was a powerful, sobering moment; a reminder of the countless heroes who never made it home. And when the final shot sounded to mark the end of the silence, the town seemed to exhale, gently and collectively.

A Farmshop Pause at Jolly Nice

After some light shopping in Tetbury, we made our way to Jolly Nice Farmshop, which is exactly as its name suggests: warm, welcoming, and full of character. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by the scent of freshly baked bread and shelves lined with produce from local farms. Everything here feels so wholesome; vegetables picked at their peak, creamy cheeses, rustic sourdoughs, and pantry staples that make you want to cook a hearty supper the moment you get home.

We stopped for coffee and caught up properly on each other's lives. There’s something genuinely grounding about a place that champions British farmers and seasonal eating. You feel as though you’re supporting not just a shop, but a way of life rooted in the land and the rhythms of the countryside.

An Early Arrival and a Glimpse Inside Calcot’s Elegance

We arrived a little ahead of schedule, which turned out to be a small gift. While our bags were whisked away to our room, Isobel and I wandered through Calcot’s beautifully designed drawing rooms, spaces that looked as though they had been lifted straight from the pages of Town & Country.

Soft, dove-grey panelling, deep armchairs in textured fabrics, well-thumbed books arranged artfully on low tables…every detail felt thoughtfully arranged yet wonderfully lived-in. Framed countryside prints lined the walls, and the lamps cast a mellow, flattering glow. As the light dimmed outside, the fires were quietly coaxed to life, their amber warmth filling the room with that unmistakable autumnal comfort. It was the kind of setting that makes you exhale without realising you’ve been holding your breath.

Our Room: Cosy Luxury for a Girls’ Retreat

Soon enough, our room was ready, and we couldn’t wait to explore. The twin room was perfect for a girly slumber party; two plush beds dressed in crisp linens, soft throws, and an inviting sense of calm. But the real showstopper was the bathroom: spacious, serene, and home to a generous rolltop tub just begging for a long, indulgent soak. The shelves were stocked with 100 Acres body care products, their botanical scents adding a fresh, uplifting touch.

As tempting as it was to linger and unwind, the November air had done its work on us during the day. We were chilled through from the crisp wind and ready for the remedy only a spa can provide.

Sinking Into Warmth: The Spa at Calcot

Calcot’s spa is a quiet sanctuary, a place where time stretches and softens. There are treatment rooms offering everything from relaxing massages to rejuvenating facials, along with a sauna and steam room that melt away any trace of tension. But it was the outdoor hot tub that called our names.

We stepped into the steaming water, and, to our delight, found it entirely to ourselves. The rain had begun to fall lightly, its delicate patter on the surface of the tub creating an oddly soothing rhythm. But wrapped in the heat of the bubbling water, we didn’t care in the slightest. There is something undeniably magical about being cocooned in warmth while the weather turns wild and wintry around you.

When we emerged, cheeks flushed and spirits lifted, we settled by the open fire with drinks in hand. The flames crackled softly as we chatted about everything and nothing - how both of us had always dreamt, even as girls, of staying in beautiful hotels like this. It was one of those moments where you sit back, take it in, and think: This is exactly what I wished for.

Dinner at The Brasserie: Seasonal Comfort and Pure Indulgence

After an hour or so of fireside chatting, our stomachs began to grumble, and so we slipped back to our room to change. Dressed in our soft knits, we made our way down to The Brasserie.

The restaurant was softly lit and warmly bustling with other diners, as we sat down and treated ourselves to a three-course seasonal menu.  

I began with Orkney scallops, perfectly seared and delicately sweet, a beautiful prelude to the main event: venison. I always gravitate towards game meats, and this dish reaffirmed exactly why. The plate was a celebration of flavour, the loin and shoulder, cooked with deep, earthy richness; beef onion fat and a stilton pithivier, which was oh so buttery. The parsnip and pear, bringing sweetness and warmth. Every bite felt decadent and wholly satisfying.

But the true showstopper was the dessert.

The pecan & white chocolate choux bun with maple ice cream was a dream. Nutty, creamy, sweet, and perfectly balanced. Without hesitation, I can say it was the best dessert I’ve ever had in a restaurant. Isobel and I were still talking about it long after our plates had been cleared. We even found ourselves offering effusive compliments to the chef, it felt only right to honour such a masterpiece. If anyone reading this is planning a visit, consider this a heartfelt recommendation: order it.

We left The Brasserie wonderfully full and wholly content, but not quite  ready to drift up to our room.

A Screen-Free Evening by the Fire

Before we even thought about bed, we decided the night deserved a little more lingering. So we wandered back into the drawing room, now flickering with firelight. We ordered a pot of tea and a hot chocolate , and settled ourselves at a small table with a board of backgammon set between us.

There’s something wonderful about ending a day this way. No phones and no screens, just the soft crackle of the fire, the clink of teacups, and the occasional victorious tap of a checker on the board. Board games invites conversation just as much as competition, and we found ourselves laughing as Isobel recounted some of her best stories.

It was a simple and cosy evening spent in these wintery months.

A Slow Cotswolds Morning

The morning arrived softly, but we lingered beneath the covers, with that fabulous sense of not needing to be anywhere too soon. For a couple of hours we simply sat in bed, chatting, sipping tea, scrolling through nothing in particular, just enjoying the rare luxury of an unhurried start.

Eventually, we dressed for breakfast and wandered down to the dining room. A full English awaited us (with an excellent vegetarian option available too), hearty and warming and exactly what you crave on a cold morning. 

A Gentle Goodbye to Calcot

Checkout was at 11am, so we took our time. We packed up the car slowly, pausing to fold scarves and tuck away newly purchased gifts. Before leaving, there was time for one more coffee and one final wander around the grounds.

The lawns were still damp with morning dew, the trees shifting from russet to winter bare, the air crisp with the promise of colder days ahead. It was the perfect farewell: quiet, reflective, and deeply restorative.

As we drove away, both of us felt that familiar blend of contentment and reluctance; happy to have been there, sad to be leaving, and already saying, We have to come back.

Helpful Tips for Your Own Calcot Escape

Where We Stayed
We checked into Calcot & Spa in Tetbury, a countryside retreat that blends comfort, elegance, and that unmistakable Cotswolds charm. Our room, the Oxford Room, was beautifully appointed with twin beds and a generous rolltop tub - perfect for a girls’ weekend away.

Make Time for the Spa
The spa is a true highlight. Alongside treatment rooms, saunas, and steam rooms, don’t miss the outdoor hot tub. Even in the rain (perhaps especially in the rain) it’s enchanting.

Dine at The Brasserie
Book dinner at The Brasserie. The seasonal menu is thoughtful and delicious, and the Pecan & White Chocolate Choux Bun with Maple Ice Cream is not to be skipped. Truly unforgettable.

Explore the Grounds
Calcot’s grounds are as peaceful as they are beautiful. Wander the Rewilding Trail, explore the meadows, or simply stroll through the landscaped gardens with a morning coffee in hand.

Borrow a Bicycle
The estate offers complimentary bicycles, which are a lovely way to see more of the countryside at your own pace.

A stay at Calcot is the kind of weekend that stays with you, calm, cosy, restorative, and filled with the simple luxuries that feel especially precious as winter settles in.

A Night at The Bildeston Crown: From Brewery to Boutique Pub

*this article discussed a PR stay and experience. 

Let’s continue our Suffolk diaries, shall we? You joined me for a tour at Mauldon’s Brewery (read about it here) and it’s time to settle in for a weekend stay. This was a PR invite and stay - thank you to Bloxham PR and Mauldon’s.

Tucked away in the rolling Suffolk countryside, The Crown Bildeston is more than just a place to stay - it’s a story, a setting, and a deeply satisfying experience. Once a 15th-century coaching inn, this beautifully preserved building has found new life as a boutique pub and restaurant with rooms. And after an afternoon tasting my way through the best of Mauldon’s Brewery - just a few miles away - The Crown made for the perfect next chapter.

Owned by the same estate as the brewery, there’s a subtle continuity between the two. From hops to hospitality, there’s a thread of care, craft, and quiet pride that ties it all together. The moment I stepped inside, it felt as though the pace shifted. Timber beams, flickering hearths, and gentle touches of modern comfort greeted me like an old friend. This is a place that wears its history with elegance, not heaviness.

The village boasts so many adorable cottages.

The Boule-In

Before settling in for the evening, I took a short stroll around Bildeston and stumbled upon something completely unexpected: The Boule-In. Tucked just off the main square, this charming boutique is a treasure trove of French antiques and decorative collectibles, curated by husband-and-wife duo Cathy and Peter Bullen. The boutique is held in their garden -- and they open their doors to welcome in antique enthusiasts. Their shared passion for French design is evident in every carefully selected piece, sourced directly from the romantic landscapes of Provence. The Boule-In offers a unique blend of timeless French elegance and contemporary British interiors, enhancing modern living with heritage style.

I had arrived towards the end of their day, but not too late to enjoy a decaf coffee from their garden café. I strolled through the theatrically curated spaces filled with authentic antiques, mid-century decor, garden plants, and much more. It was a beautiful surprise to discover such a place. Although I had no idea about it, The Boule-In is a major event where hundreds of visitors from all over the UK visit this humble abode to seek treasures and inspiration. 

Sadly, after 13 years, The Boule-In has closed its doors as Cathy and Peter decided to sell their beautiful home and retire to the South of France. I felt privileged to have stumbled across their last event. Even in its final hours, I could sense how important this business had been to the area

Dinner at the Crown: Quiet Luxury on a Plate

Exhausted from the day’s excursions, I was ready to  settle in for the evening with a three-course dinner that was as thoughtful as it was delicious. The starter was a delicate, fresh trout salad and was beautifully balanced and in its simplicity. A perfectly cooked steak followed, paired with golden, crisp chips. It’s a classic dish, but done with real finesse, the sort of cooking that respects the ingredients. Dessert was a personal highlight: a burnt Basque cheesecake, all silky texture and caramelised depth. Rich, but not cloying. Decadent, but restrained.

What truly elevated the night, though, was the service. George, the general manager, struck that rare balance between professional and personal - warm, attentive, and quietly meticulous. It wasn’t just that I was looked after; it was that I felt genuinely welcomed. That ethos of care runs deep at the Crown, from the kitchen to the front of the house.

Later, I slipped upstairs to my room, where thoughtful details awaited: crisp white linens, a view that opened onto the quiet village square, and that rarest of travel sensations—feeling instantly at home. In the morning, I woke to the soft hush of rural life, with birdsong drifting in through the old leaded windows and the promise of a slow Suffolk breakfast downstairs.

The Crown Bildeston isn’t flashy or overdone. It’s something better—calm, confident, and completely itself. It’s the kind of place you want to return to before you’ve even left.

• Where to find the hotel:

The Crown, Bildeston is located at 104 High Street, Suffolk IP7 7EB - for bookings, please visit their website https://www.thebildestoncrown.com/

• The Brewery tour:

To visit Mauldon’s Brewery and book a tour, please visit their website https://mauldons.co.uk/

Thank you to Bloxham PR for the amazing opportunity once again.

Congham Hall Hotel & Spa

*Ad - PR stay

Sometimes you just need to get away from it all. Disappear and no one knows where you are. I certainly needed it towards the end of June. No big or bad reason why, sometimes I just want some alone time to recharge the social battery. 

Congham Hall Hotel & Spa had kindly invited me for a weekend stay and I still can’t believe how lucky I am for these opportunities. Bloxham PR did it again - You know I am always going to sing those incredible women’s praises!

I arrived early on Friday morning and enjoyed the space before checking into my cabin. The spa had my name on it for sure, and I couldn't wait for an early morning swim and soak in the hot tub. A tip for anyone visiting, please book any spa treatments in advance - they get very busy on weekends especially. I was too last minute to book something, so just a heads up! But the pool and hot tub is free to use at any time.

The Georgian manor house is every bit the country hotel aesthetic you expect to see on Pinterest. The boots all lined up, flowers on every table top, vintage furniture in the lounge areas. The spa and restaurant have a more contemporary look and it feels elevated. The cabins remind me of Scandi architecture, where the sliding doors open up and nature can be welcomed in.

Friday evening and I sipped a glass of wine as the golden glimmer of sunset enveloped the sky. Baby deer foraged amongst the wild grass. You couldn’t make this up, it was something I imagined in a film. As I journaled and listened to the soft coo of cows in the distance, I couldn't imagine being anywhere else. Over the last couple of months, I have felt a grounding sense of peace within. As a producer in the media industry, your mind is always racing ahead to the next potential obstacle. Anxiety and over-preparation become your closest friends. But despite this, I have found a way to block that noise so I can be truly present.

Now, I couldn’t give that peaceful energy away if I tried. It’s too precious. I finished my wine, closed up the blinds and sank into the glorious bed. What is it about hotel beds? How do they find the softest, comfiest bedding, and those linens are just always perfectly white and crisp. I have tried hard to replicate it, but yet to be successful. Maybe that’s why travelling can feel even more magical.

I am an early bird so I got up around 5am and began running the roll top bath outside. I grabbed my Country Living magazine, a cup of coffee and continued to enjoy my solitude. That’s the thing about Congham Hall, you can just lie back and feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere. Even though the cabins are closely located to one another, I always felt a huge sense of privacy. As far as I was concerned, I was the only person staying there.

It was a big day ahead and the forecast was sunny skies - a rare one for us presently. A morning swim to clear the mind and a hearty breakfast in The Samphire Kitchen to keep me energised, were on the cards. That Saturday, I headed to Sandringham Estate. I figured with it being my first time in Norfolk, I should go and see an iconic royal residence. The house stands in a whopping 22,000 acres estate in the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The estate has been occupied since Elizabethan times, when the manor house was constructed, and is listed as Grade II. 

I opted for just the Gardens visit as it was too hot to be inside. There are eight rooms in the house available to the public for viewing. But there are also gift shops, a restaurant, multiple cafes, St Mary Magdalene Church and the royal park, all available to visit. You easily need at least half a day if you want to explore thoroughly. The church and the park are free to roam if you want to opt out of paying tickets. But the Gardens give you great views of the house.

Whilst sunbathing, I had to get an ice cream, which fun fact - the milk is sourced from Windsor farm. It was really delicious and a big hit for the day. I leisurely made my way back to Congham Hall, but stopped off for a pub lunch at The Three Horses. It was such a cute roadside pub and the meal was so good! I inhaled my food and people watched. It was really nice to see lots of locals greet each other as you’d expect in a small village. That wholesome neighbourly energy is exactly what I search for in my future. Being back in London for two years now, I do enjoy the bustle, but I can imagine that it will later become fatiguing. Village life, where I walk my dog and say hello to people in my street, will call upon me soon.

As I sipped one last cup of tea in the cabin, I couldn't help but wonder, what was it about Congham hall that brought me so much peace? Was it the natural beauty of Norfolk, the peeled back simplicity of the cabin’s interior design? Perhaps it was the wildlife, unafraid and unabashed by my presence? All of the above and it embodied how I feel energetically. You can’t beat inner peace. When you feel this good, things align and those that do not, will be removed from your space. Don’t fight it, let it go, with ease. And if you’re really lucky, you can stand and look at an apple orchard, knowing that life couldn’t be any better right now.

The Painswick

As we sipped the last few drops of our tea, basking in the breathtaking views of the valley, and listening to the busy hum of bees, I turned to my mother and smiled. ‘This is all I want in the future.’ I said to her earnestly. ‘A garden, a great view and good company.’ 

Our taxi pulled up to the late 18th century Palladian building, known today as The Painswick hotel. The first thing I felt was how cosy and elegant the furnishings were. The second thing I felt was the warmth of The Painswick staff. Before we get going on this article, I want to offer the biggest thank you to The Painswick staff and of course, Bloxham PR, for a fantastic stay.

To those that have never been to the Cotswolds before, you can’t imagine a more idyllic and picturesque vision of England. It’s how most tourists believe England looks everywhere (lol)! The storybook villages, rising valleys, undisturbed landscapes - you can’t really go wrong with this particular region of the country. 

The town of Painswick perhaps isn’t as well known but in it, you will experience all the quintessential trimmings of countryside living. The hotel is in the heart of the town, and as we sat down to enjoy our afternoon tea, we gasped at the views. Large valleys sit in the background as Mum and I dug into our sandwiches, scotch eggs and desserts. The afternoon tea was exceptional! It doesn’t seem like a lot when you first gaze upon the board, but I can assure you, you will be stuffed to the brim. We sat upon the balcony that screamed Romeo & Juliet vibes. The last few remnants of wisteria hanging onto the edge and the gentle, warm breeze blowing through our hair. 

It had been a long time since my Mum and I had done something just the two of us. With all these incredible experiences I have had with brands and PR stays, I really wanted to take someone along this time. And who is a greater cheerleader of your accomplishments, than your Mum? Forever fueling my confidence, I wanted to thank her in a special way. A huge shout out to the fact that she travelled all the way from the north to join me on this trip.

Next, we wanted to explore the area. We left our bags comfortably and ventured into the village, which is also known as the ‘Queen of the Cotswolds’ and is one of England’s oldest ‘Wool Towns.’ The wealth generated from wool production and weaving gave the area many fine buildings, like the Painswick and St. Mary’s Church. One of our first stops was the church, which is less than 5 minutes walk from the hotel. The tall beautiful spire grabs your attention in any direction you walk.

Just like any church in England, this one is stunning to view from an architectural perspective. The churchyard is well-known for its 99 Yew Trees. Dating the planting back to the 18th century, the walkways of these trees are not one to miss and legend states that the 100th Yew will never grow! 

Bask in the Cotswold stone buildings and Georgian era windows. It’s Jane Austen and Bridgerton rolled into one. Every corner is scenic, you want to take photos constantly, and I was just obsessed. 

Ok, one of the highlights you’ll have during your stay at the Painswick hotel, are the meals. Mum and I opted for the lamb chops. We tend to always eat the local produce for the restaurant and places like these, the ingredients are always locally sourced. Oh my word, the lamb chops were the greatest I have ever eaten. Succulent, tender and we were served healthy portions! Lots of meat haha! Complemented by seasonal vegetables, Mum and I cleaned our plates. We paired it with a malbec and oh chef’s kiss, the meal went down beautifully. Sadly, we were just too full to try dessert, but next time!

The same goes for breakfast the next day. The restaurant itself is understated, with imposing archways that open up to wood panelled walls and herringbone flooring. It’s a contemporary setting with a country living twist, and I think that best describes the hotel overall. After we had eaten well (Mum had avocado on toast and I opted for granola), it was off to explore some hidden gems in the area.

First up was a visit to Stroud Farmers’ Market. The award-winning market is hailed as one of the biggest and most popular farmers’ markets in the country. The weekly market is exceptional, with hundreds of locals coming out every weekend to support local businesses. The market opens from 9am, we arrived at 9:30am and were shocked at how crowded it already was. 

Most things were nearly sold out already! I had never seen anything like it before, and what was available to purchase was some of the best produce I had seen at a market. No wonder it was crowned ‘Best Farmers’ Market’ in 2013 by FARMA. It was living up to its reputation and the quality of goods on sale, makes it understandable how Stroud Farmers’ Market is somewhat of an institution now.

My personal favourite purchase was the mushrooms from Slad Valley. Lions mane and speckled chestnut mushrooms were unfamiliar to me. They were wild and exotic looking and I had to get my hands on them! I ended up using them in pasta dishes and the flavour was spectacular. Lions mane has a bit of a meaty taste to it and the speckled mushrooms pair beautifully with scrambled eggs and avocado on sourdough toast. It’s true that finer ingredients elevate the simplest of dishes. I shall be ordering online or better yet, I will be able to grow my own with the Slad Valley Mushroom starter kit!

Our final day concluded with an afternoon at the Painswick Rococo Garden. As gardening enthusiasts, Mum and I adored this place! Rococo Garden is a 15 minute walk from The Painswick, so it's a great thing to visit locally during your stay. In 1748, Benjamin Hyett asked local artist Thomas Robins to paint Rococo. Little did either of them know that the painting would be used as inspiration for the restoration for the garden from the 1970s, right up to today!

Take in vista views from the magical follies and race each other in the maze to get to the centre. Take a seat and enjoy the beautiful Cotswold views, the garden is built within a valley so you can imagine the extravagant parties that were held here, centuries ago. Enjoy the sunlight streaming through the trees on your woodland walk and grab a bite to eat at the cafe before you depart. Oh did I mention that they are growing a vineyard there and a food kitchen? Soon, you’ll be able to purchase their wine in their gift shop. Mum and I love local businesses and support where we can. 

Overall, Mum and I had the most amazing time. It was Mum’s first visit to the Cotswolds and she couldn’t get over the natural beauty of the landscape. Although we did visit local places, we found ourselves really enjoying sitting in the hotel gardens and the balcony, just enjoying the views. This trip was equally significant for me, because I had some of the deepest conversations with Mum. The kind of talks you can only rarely have. Most likely because now you're an adult child rather than a child child, and you’re away from home with all the familial baggage. 

We can talk frankly, and one of my fondest memories will be sitting in the balcony until 1am, talking to my mother, as one woman to another. Seeing her not just in the roles of ‘Mum’ and ‘Wife’, but as a woman in her own right. A woman who had dreams and nightmares well before our family came into the picture. She’s human with flaws and she didn't always get everything right. She’s no superhero, but she’s pretty damn close to one. There’s so much wisdom, pain, love and determination beyond her beautiful, brown eyes. We argue as mothers and daughters tend to do, but there’s no person I have higher respect for than her. No woman I hold in higher regard. I strive to be as strong as she is and she has had to be. 

Hands down, this was one of my favourite trips. Sitting in the gardens, enjoying our afternoon tea and listening to the hum of bees in one of the most beautiful corners of England. I want to thank The Painswick hotel and their staff for the incredible hospitality and warmth. We were very well taken care of there and I couldn’t recommend this cosy spot more. As always, I am very grateful for the lovely Bloxham PR agency. They are incredible and their clientele speak volumes in elegance and countryside living. Another trip down to Painswick is due!

Lord Crewe Arms

The family and I in front of the Lord Crewe Arms entrance. How cute are they, please?

My family and I have long been visitors of Blanchland. Being only an hour away from my home city of Sunderland, it was always a great day trip away. There is something truly magical about this honey-stone village. It feels like a world away, despite it being so close to major cities, and I think it's down to the fact that the area has been established since the Mediaeval period. Blanchland Abbey was founded in 1165, by Walter de Bolbec and in 1327 King Edward III stayed at the village during his campaign against the Scots. The cobbled streets and winding lanes lead you to the heartbeat of Blanchland, the beautiful hotel that is the Lord Crewe Arms. Initially built as a guest house for the neighbouring abbey.

The beautiful stonework of these buildings.

I have already expressed that for my family, this hotel and village has sentimental value. My father and brother are obsessed with one of their ales, Best Bitter. We have been known in the past to drive down specifically just for that! So, when the wonderful LCA team and Bloxham PR invited me for a PR stay last month, this was bigger than the already amazing opportunity! Thank you to both of them again for helping me achieve a childhood dream! I had always wanted to stay at the hotel, ever since we had first visited back when I was a little girl. This was also my first ever PR stay and to be able to experience this for the first time in the north east, was the icing on the cake. 

So, I am going to break down what you can do in 48 hours at the Lord Crewe Arms. I would love for you to journey here and experience the wonderful staff, to soak up the amazing history and experience my favourite county of England - Northumberland.

DAY ONE

You awake refreshed from the best night’s sleep in the Radcliffe suite. The stresses of city life rolls away as you open the windows overlooking the abbey and listen to birdsong. If you live in London, then you understand that high water pressure is liquid gold, so you stand in the shower and breathe out all of life’s pressures. 

Your room has an abundant selection of teas and coffees, with shortbread and fudge sweet treats as well. So, pour yourself a mug and breathe. Head down to the restaurant for a good breakfast. I opted for the avocado on sourdough toast, with poached eggs and feta cheese. 

Time to explore, so get those wellies on! March this year was wet and windy, but no such thing as bad weather, only bad attire! Plus, you are in northern England darling, expect the sun to be few and far between. No excuses though, put your field coat on and get wandering. You can enjoy circular walks around the village and there are river trails that are also perfect for dog walkers. Nearby, there is Slaley Forest which is great for woodland trails too. Once you have tired yourself out, it’s time to head back for food. 

And why not opt for the afternoon tea?

The afternoon tea menu is seasonal and you can opt for a champagne version, as well as amend for any dietary requirements. Beyond delicious were the small bites of heaven desserts. My favourite was the pistachio and rhubarb cake. The sweetness mixed with torte felt like a burst of springtime! The sandwiches were stuffed perfectly with filling. A mixture of chicken coronation, egg salad, cheese and chutney, and tuna mayo. Fair to say, I inhaled them!

The evening concludes with the world’s longest soak in the roll top bath. Full disclosure, I am not a bath person. I am a shower get-in-and-get-out kind of gal. The idea of lying in water for hours is just not my vibe. BUT, when in Blanchland…I took a deep breath and submerged. Hearing the gentle birdsong and refusing to look at my phone meant I was conditioned to just sit and soak. And when sitting was a little too much, I read. I actually read a book and it has been a while (I have succumbed to reading from a screen). I felt so at peace. No distractions. The simple joy of a book and bath. 

DAY TWO

Arise on day two and enjoy those simple quiet moments you have before the world (i.e. your mobile) interrupts it. Head downstairs for breakfast and this time, I opted for granola, with fresh fruit and yoghurt. The highlight was the berry compote and I was not the only guest to say so! 

Time to explore the historic Blanchland Abbey, because essentially, we wouldn’t have the village without it. Walking around, under those huge pillars, you will marvel at how humans built this impressive place of worship, and boggle at how it has stood for centuries, close to a 1000 years. Blanchland Abbey is humble in its décor and unassuming in its artworks. A chapel in Rome, it is not! But that’s what makes English churches, abbeys and cathedrals so interesting and diverse in its architectural design.

The beautiful Blanchland Abbey.

Onwards with our exploring of the village. Meet some of the locals along the streets and let them share stories of their home and the magic of this place. Step back in the Lord Crewe Arms for a well deserved lunch and soak in that glorious tub once more (I only have a shower back home)!

If you have journeyed to stay over the weekend, then do not pass up the opportunity for a Sunday roast. This was glorious! A classic meal to dine on with family and friends. Who can resist those giant Yorkshire puds either?!

But like all meals and time spent, it is just as much about the company you keep. I opened with this article and I wanted to highlight once more, how special this place is for my family and I. As an urbanite, it is so hard to switch off and disconnect from the outside noise, but so necessary. As I get older, I appreciate these moments even more.

I have to give my family a special shout out too - they were fully invested in shooting content with me. So much so, they were arguing on who received more close ups in the final version of my reels! And that is what ultimately made this trip so special. I can count on my family to help support me with making media content, to make me laugh as we battled through the rain and cold, and to guide me in these new experiences like PR stays, even if they don’t quite get it sometimes! I am grateful for being on this life journey, and being able to share it with the ones I love.

Whether you venture here solo, with family or friends, you will have the ultimate experience at the Lord Crewe Arms. The team there are an absolute credit to the hotel. Let this magical become your home away from home. Book now!

The dining options here are exquisite. I had slow-cooked ox cheek with panackelty, wild mushrooms, in red wine sauce.