Danesfield House: A True British Gem Loved By The Clooneys Which Is Good Enough For Me

If you’re after a relaxing spa break that oozes a typical, British countryside manor feel then Danesfield House is the place to go. Situated in the very heart of the oh so sophisticated county of Buckinghamshire and nestled in between the picturesque, historic market towns of Marlow and Henley, you really couldn’t think of a more quaint location to explore these iconic areas.

The grounds are impressive from the word go and, as you drive up the private road approaching the manor surrounded by its sixty-five acres of formal gardens, you are in awe of its beauty. The first known building known on the estate was constructed in 1664 by a family named Medlycotts but the grounds were discovered much earlier by Danish invaders. (hence the name Danesfield House) I could really visualise its splendid history and start to imagine  being dropped off by horse and carriage and you know you are onto something special when George and Amal Clooney chose Danesfield House to host their lavish wedding bash continuing their celebrations here in the UK.

Anyhow, we were here to relax and after checking-in with the helpful and friendly reception staff we made our way over to Spa Illuminata for some much-deserved pampering. After all this was the reason we were there. I chose to de-stress with their renowned Darphin Total Anti-Ageing Facial, which was very re-laxing, leaving my skin feeling plump, smooth and rejuvenated. After a spot of lunch (a super food salad) at the Spa’s restaurant and a few cheeky glasses of fizz, we continued our spa day lounging around the pool and steam room areas. There is a fully equipped gym but we were here for relaxation purposes and I find working out too much of a chore – especially on a Sunday!

Our room was a River Suite extremely opulent with a comfortable super-king size four-poster bed and a grand window with views of the stately grounds and river. It was hard to get the motivation to leave the room but we had a three course meal waiting for us at The Orangery Restaurant. While we were seated in the impressive Oak Room with its lavish furnishings and ornate ceiling, I day-dreamed about sitting in George’s seat whilst I browsed over the À la Carte menu. To start, I had Scallops, Spinach, Blue Cheese, Glaçage. Truthfully I’m not a massive fan of Scallops and I don’t even know what prompted me to choose them but I am glad that I did. They were exquisite and cooked to perfection – they melted away in the mouth. Following which I had the Fillet of beef, Spinach, Dau-phinoise Morel Jus – the beef was super tender and juicy – all washed down with a few more glasses of the house Prosecco, and I couldn’t resist getting a bottle sent up to our room – for a late night aperitif in our suite to end our stay in true style.

Danesfield House & Spa

01628 890408 | www.danesfieldhouse.co.uk