Four Seasons, Hampshire

The drive through the Georgian estate of the Four Seasons Hampshire will leave you either a) breathless or b) clutching at your companion in excitement as you note how much you feel like you are in an episode of Downton Abbey (you can guess which was my reaction). Check in commences in a room with a warming fireplace, where Oliver (the resident lab, so used to seeing guests parading in and out he isn't bothered a lick about newcomers, much to my dismay) comfortably lounges on his bed.

Our room wasn't quite ready, so we opted to borrow two bikes to ride around the premises for an hour or so before the sun set. There are even wellies and Barbour jackets on hand. I borrowed a (far too large) jacket and off we went!

If biking isn't your thing, there are myriad activities to keep one entertained at the Four Seasons. Book yourself in for some incredible pampering at the spa, go for a swim and enjoy their fantastic outdoor vitality pool (amazing in the middle of winter when the air is freezing cold and the steam rises up around you), go horse-riding, clay pigeon shooting, zip lining and more. Or simply enjoy an afternoon tea in The Library, or snuggle up in your luxurious bed and watch TV.

The Room:

We stayed in a Grand Manor Room overlooking the estate's grounds, which proved to be a truly beautiful view at sunset.

The Food

We booked dinner at Seasons at 9:15pm, stopping off opposite in the modern Bar 1086 to have some G&Ts first. Upon being seated, we noticed a smattering of rose petals on the table - a sweet, thoughtful touch for our anniversary :)

Food was very good; presented beautifully, full of flavour and quick to arrive:

Butternut squash soup.

Surf and turf - langoustine and chicken.

Seabass on a bed of mushrooms with foam.

Chocolate bomb. Slightly underwhelming (would have been better if it had been served hot and melting inside), but was made up for with extra chocolate truffles when we asked for the bill.

The Grounds

After a languorous (and delicious) breakfast, having been guaranteed a late check out at 4pm, we decided to wander the grounds (on foot, this time) on Sunday morning. Crisp, cold air bit at our faces as we trudged down the path towards the enormous pond, enjoying the stunning views all the way down and back.

Set in an incredible location, I couldn't imagine a more peaceful, picturesque escape from the city.


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