As UK summer staycations continue to soar, the luxury Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa has reopened its doors in the heart of Shakespearean England following an extensive £5.6 million refurbishment.
Guests can expect newly refurbished bedrooms complete with rich, warm designs, upgraded guest spaces with a contemporary twist, a stunning restaurant and bar featuring original 16th century oak panelling, and a newly renovated spa and wedding venue.
Located just three miles from Stratford-upon-Avon, in the heart of rural Warwickshire, this unique 125-year-old property boasts charming grounds, complete with an 11th century church and a listed, ornate topiary garden, steeped in history.
A variety of conference spaces have also been refreshed, and an ambient library adorned with a ceiling of floating books provides a light filled area for relaxation or inspiration, said to be where William Shakespeare wrote his famous comedy ‘As You Like It’.
Rooms & Design
Many of the bedrooms have been expertly upgraded with sumptuous new furnishings. Four poster beds, period fireplaces and contemporary fabrics ensure a charming blend of traditional and modern, with elegant and refined design.
Communal spaces have also been enhanced with a new look, still in keeping with the former 16th century Elizabethan home’s historic charm. The incredible transformation includes the grand welcoming reception area, Great Hall, bar, lounge and gallery, and the Stuart Restaurant for guests to indulge in everything from themed afternoon teas to exclusive gastronomic delights with locally sourced produce. Drawing inspiration from the romantic English landscape, historic origins and the notable voices past and present that have retreated to Billesley, the hotel is the perfect sanctuary for guests looking to feel re-energised and inspired.
The hotel’s new makeover has kept its glorious floor-to-ceiling oak wood panelling complemented and elevated with a new rich colour palette of blues and golds. Plush, velvet furniture has been added throughout the property, whilst artwork by Pratiksha Tayal brings a contemporary twist to the traditional paintings that previously adorned the walls, creating a timeless luxury haven for all guests to enjoy.
Woven through History
Listed in the 1086 Domesday book commissioned by William the Conqueror, the Billesley Estate has an expansive history dating back to 705 AD.
One of its most famous visitors includes none other than William Shakespeare himself, who allegedly married Anne Hathaway in the All Saints church next to the hotel, and who’s granddaughter followed suit by getting wed in the very same church.
Shakespeare famously wrote lines from his play ‘As you Like It’ from the library and, as such, many nods to Shakespeare can be found around the hotel, from hand crafted feather pieces to more traditional artwork, allowing guests to become immersed in the rich tapestry of Billesley’s history.
Wellness Retreat
Those looking to wind down can experience a number of indulgent beauty therapies within the newly refurbished Decleor spa.
Guests can take a dip in the pool followed by a steam and a sauna, or make use of the secluded yoga hut and fantastic gym facilities.
The romantic and historic topiary garden offers an idea backdrop for sunrise yoga and meditation which guests can enjoy on their own accord after picking up a yoga mat from reception.
Bucolic Surroundings
Located in 11 acres of beautiful countryside just outside the medieval town of Stratford-Upon-Avon and close to many engaging locations, this 16th Century country hotel provides a sanctuary from which to feel relaxed and inspired.
Enveloped in rolling countryside, Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa draws inspirations from nature, creating spaces to reconnect. The exquisite, listed topiary garden (planted over 125 years ago) has been curated and shaped to form giant chess pieces, inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland.
The bucolic setting provides another unique opportunity for guests to spend time unearthing the true spirit of Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa.
Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa rates start from £160 per night B&B based on two people sharing, subject to availability. For more information about Billesley Manor Hotel and to book a stay, please visit www.bespokehotels.com.
