The Maldives who? This luxury private island is bang on the Berkshire doorstep and it packs some serious wow. Monkey Island Estate is a five star hotel with a fantastic restaurant set across seven bucolic acres and its own stretch of land. It’s a place bursting with history. Walk in the footsteps of monarchs, aristocrats, artists, writers, and Hollywood A-listers who’ve wafted along its shores.

Inside, you’ll find 41 luxury bedrooms and suites, many with stonking views of the River Thames, plus the Grade I listed Wedgewood Suite which was designed by the award-winning New York-based Champalimaud Design. It screams timeless glamour with all the traditional touches of modern, countryside chic you need when sipping on an Old Fashioned (best enjoyed in the stylish and secret Whisky Snug, which is available for private events).

For something even more exclusive, try their three private onsite residences: Long White Cloud, Brook House and Sundial Cottage. Each oozes class and charm, and are uniquely furnished in keeping with their classic character.

There’s a cool restaurant, The Monkey Island Brasserie, with vaulted ceilings and eye-pleasing design, perfect for a long lunch, afternoon tea, or intimate dinner. Enjoy regularly changing seasonal menus which use only the very best locally sourced ingredients, celebrating the best of British cuisine. Think mussels, hake, lamb, and salmon. It’s intimate and informal, and you don’t need to be a guest to enjoy it either. On a sunny day though, you’ll want to head out the French doors terrace side where you’ll find yourself eyeballing the idyllic river vistas.

There’s an all-day bar serving bespoke cocktails, champagne, and wine from the cellar, which can also be enjoyed in the incredibly opulent Grade I listed Monkey Room where monkey inspired, 17th Century frescoes adorn the ceilings. Talk about being surrounded by history. But don’t leave before booking yourself in for a treatment on their floating spa. A moored spa barge (the first of its kind) where you can enjoy a selection of specially curated massages and facials.

Located in fairytale Bray (a mecca of Michelin stars), Monkey Island Estate is the perfect base for exploring the local area – Windsor Castle and Ascot Racecourse are just a stone’s throw away. As for a wedding venue, it’s magic. The unique and picturesque venue has space for every occasion, able to host up to 120 guests in the Marlborough Ballroom, and up to 100 guests in the River Room. Exclusive use also available.