Out And About With Paris House England Edition
By Michele Rosenthal
My recent stay at Cliveden House in June was something dreams are made of. Saying that it was straight out of a fairytale is an understatement. I flew British Airways to London arriving at 6:30am. My private driver (arranged by Cliveden House) whisked me away in a luxury Mercedes on a quick 30 minute journey. As we entered the long scenic road, passing the Fountain of Love, We approached the Manor Home built in 1666. Any possibility of jet lag was quickly replaced by joy and excitement of all the adventures that lie ahead at this Fabled Castle.
The Hotel was gracious enough to set me up in a room to relax inand use the spa until my hotel room was ready. The weather was sunny and in the mid 70’s each day with no rain. My beautifully designed room, named after famed interior designer, Nancy Lancaster, was stunning and included a private jacuzzi on an English terrace surrounded with English roses and view of the gilded clock tower, absolutely charming.
Cliveden House was originally built in 1666 by 2nd Duke of Buckingham and has the most glorious spa with delicious fruit smoothies, walled flower gardens, spectacular views of formal parterre gardens, a Juliette balcony with views of the River Thames, a pool landscaped in lavender and roses planted en masse and perfuming the air, delicious high tea and much more. The breakfast was so beautiful it looked like a renaissance painting. I enjoyed coffee overlooking the expansive formal gardens each morning.
Honestly, it was hard to leave here during my stay! I did plan wonderful private day tours to Stonehenge, and I revisited London & The Cotswolds, more on that in England parts 2,3,&4
History on Cliveden House sourced from Their website “ Cliveden House is a privately owned five AA Red Star award-winning hotel, our story is one of over 350 years of powerful personalities, iconic parties and scandalous affairs. Built-in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham, as a gift to his mistress, Cliveden House has remained a pinnacle of intrigue and glamour for the elite.
Now, our Grade I stately home set upon 376 acres of beautifully presented National Trust grounds is a luxurious five-star Relais & Châteaux hotel and spa, ready and waiting to welcome you to create your own moment in Cliveden's history.”
The highlight of my time at Cliveden House was the Champagne High Tea Boat Ride Down River Thames . The most unforgettable and delicious High Tea I have ever experienced. I am still dreaming about the sconces, clotted cream, jam, tea sandwiches & Champagne. I have had many amazing high teas around the world, but this tea was extraordinary! My private Mercedes drove me down beyond the parterre gardens to The Cliveden Boathouse on River Thames. It was there, we began our scenic journey on one of the most beautiful idyllic parts of the Thames. The river is aprx 215 miles long (depending on who you ask!) and I was told the Queen owns all of the unclaimed Swans on the river. Now that is a real life fairytale.
After my scenic boat ride I changed into a yellow velvet gown and caplet with crystal details. I walked through the formal gardens to the main house where I enjoyed a martini on the limestone terrace complete with balustrades and magnificent views. I promise you will sleep well on the most comfortable bedding and quietness. There is a gift basket filled with spa shoes and towels if you want an evening Of relaxation in the hot tub after dinner, As mentioned, my room had a private one.
THE FLOTILLA
Suzy Ann
The Suzy Ann, built-in 1911, and celebrating her 100th year in 2011, is the flagship and can accommodate up to ten guests in great style and comfort. Restored for Cliveden in 1986,
https://www.clivedenhouse.co.uk/boat-trips/the-flotilla/
Our Slideshow above are ways to bring a little bit of beautiful England home. Through festive cocktails, floral designs, garden inspired cakes and fashion
A simple cake can be elevated by adding fresh fruits, berries, Chantilly whipped cream & edible flowers with no pesticides
We highlighted all of our England Holiday on our Instagram Theparishouse
We hope you enjoyed our Travel Guide on Cliveden House
If you would like to book this trip or have us assist you in planning your getaways, travel wardrobe and itinerary message us via our website email. We can work with you remote or in person.
The beautiful breakfast room with stunning views over the parterre gardens