THE LOWDOWN

Easthampstead Park hotel in Wokingham Bracknell

Lovingly restored from a crumbling historic home to a shiny and exclusive 4 star hotel, Easthampstead Park sits pretty between Bracknell and Wokingham in a whopping 80 acres of woodland, parkland and formal gardens. Cruise up the sweeping tree-lined drive like a Hollywood movie star and be greeted by a Victorian era mansion with serious wow-factor. Inside, there’s 93 sumptuous bedrooms, a swanky dining room, bar, terrace, plus a state-of-the-art gym.

Deep breath. It’s history lesson time. And this classy lady oozes with juicy stories. The property itself is centuries old – so old in fact it’s mentioned in William the Conqueror’s Domesday Survey of 1086. It has strong royal roots, and was passed from monarch to monarch before eventually being granted to a non-royal family. Fun fact: poor old Catherine of Aragon was actually in residence when she received her divorce papers from King Henry VIII back in 1531. Talk about dodging a bullet.

During WWII, the seventh Marquess moved out to allow London school boys to use the mansion to escape the bombing. Clearly not far enough though as in 1941, a German aircraft found its way to the house and dropped explosives along the main drive. Since then, the mansion has been devastated by a fire, served as a women’s teacher training academy, then converted to an emergency nuclear bunker for the county.

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Finally, in 2019, it was purchased by Active Hospitality who spent a whopping £10 million getting the place in shipshape, restoring it to its former glory and more. Now, in addition to being a luxury weekend escape, the Grade II listed hotel is also a dreamy (and very popular) wedding destination.

Offering a range of flexible spaces, including the new King Suite, Easthampstead Park has fantastic options to accommodate all types of couples, with dedicated wedding staff and planners to help make the dream a reality. It’s the perfect venue for special events, parties, corporate conferences, meetings, training workshops, and team away days too.

THE VIBE

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Once you’ve managed to haul your jaw off the floor from that impressive saunter up the driveway, get ready for more ‘ooh’ and ‘aahing’. Stepping inside, the double height ceilings are mighty impressive. It feels grand and palatial, and immediately that feeling that this is something special settles over you. From the get-go, staff are incredibly friendly and efficient, going out of their way to make you feel welcome.

As for the interiors, it’s classic but modern, staying faithful to the heritage of the property with statement stained glass windows, ornate chandeliers, and a clean colour palette. Don’t expect boundary pushing interior design. It’s not that kind of hotel. It’s designed for mass appeal, but I think the more archetypal manor house vibes, elevated with trendy touches works so much better for it. None of that stuffy old house feel to it either. It’s light, bright, and airy with natural wood flooring, heritage style wallpapers, and floor to ceiling Georgian-style windows.

Sashay your way to the outdoor terrace where huge stone archways frame your view into the sweeping gardens beyond. The seating space is plentiful with oversized umbrellas to shield you from the sun (or rain) when opting for an al fresco bite and a tipple. There’s a ginormous sofa that you could squeeze an entire football team on. Plus, there’s beautiful, pocket sized gardens with trickling water fountain, topiaries, and a rainbow assortment of flowers and plants lining one wall.

It’s incredibly peaceful and feels a far cry away from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. Take a meander around the grounds and keep your eyes peeled for the resident deer bounding about the place. We took a stroll and bumped into a doe and a stag which happily let us watch on as they munched on some wild blackberry bushes. Err, Disney levels of idyllic or what?

As for the crowd, it was completely mixed. Children, couples, big groups of friends, and families all happily tucked into afternoon tea and lunch. There was one big table celebrating a baby shower, plus around the side of the hotel, a lovely little wedding was going on. It’s clearly a hot spot for events and celebrations. And honestly, with a setting this stunning, it makes sense.

AFTERNOON TEA

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Pinkies up! Our afternoon at Easthampstead Park kicked off with a spot of high tea. Naturally. Giving all the Bridgerton vibes, we had The Lady Evelyn Afternoon Tea which consisted of four types of freshly made sandwiches, home baked scones, and four dainty cakes and pastries of the day. It was, of course, only right we had a glass of prosecco to wash it all down.

It’s pretty show-stopping, presented in a lovely cage-like cake stand. I popped a pic on my Instagram story and the crowd went wild for it. The finger sandwiches were lovely – consisting of egg mayonnaise with watercress, smoked salmon and dill cream cheese, honey roast ham with wholegrain mustard mayo, and roast beef and horseradish. The egg was my favourite – it had a really lovely flavour. Pots of tea were delivered as and when needed. And if staff noticed it had been stewing too long, they’d instantly bring out a fresh one.

The scones were delish and I loved the giant pot of clotted cream that accompanied it. I’m one of those who likes my cream slathered on as thick as my scone. No shame. As for cakes – sooo cute. And yep, they were as good as they looked. The chocolate eclair with the raspberry cream filling was a hit as well as the lemon meringue tart. There was a Battenburg cake and another lemony cake too which were also lovely. Clearly afternoon tea at Easthampstead Park is a little bit legendary as practically every table was filled with people indulging on their three tiers of joy.

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Honestly, you couldn’t get a much more beautiful setting for it. On the Sunday we visited, of course the gorgeously warm summer’s day helped as we enjoyed our tea on the stunning outdoor terrace. But come winter, the dining room is just as ambient a setting. After stuffing ourselves silly with sugar, we went for a stomp around the grounds. Cue the Bambi scene.

DINNER

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A long walk and a lie down later, we were raring for more of the hotel’s culinary delights. Dinner rolled around, set in The Terrace Restaurant complete with soaring ceilings, glass chandeliers, and ornate fireplaces. It gives special occasion vibes while remaining laid-back and wholly unpretentious.

Before our meal, we enjoyed a handcrafted cocktail on the terrace – one of many from their tempting list. I went for the passion fruit mojito, meanwhile my friend had a negroni. Both utter perfection. It’s worth noting the Country House Bar is a super plush hangout spot where you can grab cheeky pre-dinner cocktails, beers, wines, champagnes, and spirits. There’s also a light bite menu of sandwiches, salads, and burgers too.

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Back in the restaurant, starters were up, my fellow foodie got the Soup Du Jour – a tomato and red pepper soup with a tasty warm roll. I was told it was lovely and seasoned beautifully. The bread was a particular highlight apparently.

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For me, the Crab, Avocado and Fennel Tian with Tomato Consommé had my name all over it. I didn’t know what to expect with this one, but it was stunning. The crab meat was delicate yet packed with a mouthwatering flavour that complemented the avocado beautifully. I wouldn’t hesitate to order it again. We were off to a flying start.

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Neither of us could resist the lull of the Filo Wrapped Braised Beef Shin with Dauphinoise Potato, Jerusalem Artichoke Puree, Baby Turnips, Baby Carrot and Red Wine Jus. And yep, thankfully we did as I think I would have had serious food envy. The beef fell apart. It was incredibly tender, packed with flavour, and the pastry was buttery and flaky in equal measure. The potato was well seasoned, and I enjoyed the assortment of veg on the plate. A few more bits wouldn’t have gone amiss though.

You really can’t complain about the quality of the food here. Each dish is made with the finest local and seasonal produce, and the restaurant is not afraid to wear its sustainability credentials on its sleeves, from food prep to practices. There’s a brilliant plant-based offering, simple kids’ menu, plus I’ve heard their Sunday Lunch is pretty special too. As for wine, the list is extensive. I went for the Chilean Merlot to pair with my beef. Highly recommended.

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By pud, I was so full I could barely move. I was seriously eye balling the local cheese board but I just didn’t have it in me. Believe it or not, I do have limits, people. In the end we got a White Chocolate Cheesecake with Cocoa Nib Tuille, Hazelnut Crumb and Raspberry Ice Cream to share. Thankfully we did because the portion size was massive. Creamy, chocolatey, fruity – what more could you want?

Overall, what a fabulous meal! The Terrace Restaurant at Easthampstead Park is somewhere well worth considering when thinking of special places to dine out around Wokingham and Bracknell. Throughout the evening our waiter was extremely attentive too (our forks had barely hit the plate before they were swiftly whisked away). The professionalism bar is set high which again, underlines the quality of dining you can expect here.

STAY

Time to curl up like an overstuffed ball and never get up. For our night stay, we were in one of the hotel’s stylish Deluxe Doubles equipped with a large queen-sized bed, TV, free WIFI, tea and coffee making facilities, and stonking views of the verdant grounds. The room itself was very clean and had a real fresh feeling about it. I loved the corridor that separated the front door, bathroom and bedroom. It felt so spacious and a little home away from home.

The design is simple with neutral, inoffensive tones of greys and golds. The floral carpet gave a really cosy feeling to the room and there was a range of lighting to create ambience after dark. The oversized headboard on the bed makes a wow statement, plus there’s ample storage in the wardrobe, a snug chair in the corner, and a desk for getting ready or if you’re in work mode. It’s worth noting there isn’t a mini fridge or aircon in the room, but windows can be opened to get your fresh air fix.

After all that food, I slept like a log. The bed was SO comfy and although there was a wedding going on until the early hours downstairs, I didn’t hear a thing. It was incredibly peaceful. In the morning, I loved how the sun gently filtered through the windows and sounds of birdsong filled the room. It felt like a true oasis of calm.

Similar to the bedroom, the bathroom continued the neutral, grey colour palette with all the modern appliances you’d expect. The bath was gigantic, and the waterfall shower was bliss. There was his and hers sinks, plus bath towels big enough to cover your modesty. None of this pocket square sized excuse for a towel. A real, fluffy white dreamboat. I was totally obsessed with the Rituals toiletries too. They smelt divineeee.

BREAKFAST

More food you say? Oh go on then. Breakfast the next morning was a civilised affair in the main dining room with a small but mighty spread of juices, fruits, pastries, and cereals. But the main deal is the hot plates you can order separately from the menu. Full English, avo on toast, eggs benny, French toast, yoghurt and granola? The choice is yours.

I was tempted by practically everything, but in the end I went for the Eggs Benedict which was simple but delicious. My friend had the full works of the Farmhouse Breakfast comprised of bacon, sausage, beans, hash browns, mushrooms, grilled tomatoes, and toast. No better way to start the day. Teas and coffees available on tap too.

GYM

Open to guests and the public alike, East Park Gym is well worth a gander. It’s a proper state-of-the-art fitness space with industrial décor and spit-and-sawdust style equipment. Yep, it’s Insta eye candy and attracts a mixed bag of buff blokes and your average gym goers who can’t get enough of the open planned style of fitness and timetable of coached classes.

As guests were free to use the gym or join a class, in the morning, I managed to drag my glutinous behind down to the treadmill and give it a whirl myself. In the time I was there, the instructor present was incredibly friendly and welcoming, and as people came and went, she seemed to know most of them by name. It’s clearly one of those gyms that has a real community feel. I’m here for it.

ACCESSIBILITY

The hotel accommodates those with mobility issues. There are disability ramps in use to access the gardens and outdoor terrace, plus extra wide hallways, an elevator, and accessible bathroom. Accessible guest rooms are also available.

KIDS

Kids tagging along? Easthampstead Park offer family rooms with a double fold-out bed and a little more space to spread out. In the restaurant, the simple little people menu should keep ’em happy (one course for £6, two for £10, three for £13), plus there’s a children’s afternoon tea too.

OUT & ABOUT

If you’re not making the most of the countless, beautiful country walks right on the doorstep, hop over to nearby Wokingham for some boutique shopping. On the high-street there’s all the Muddy favourites including Oliver Bonas, Fiona Parry Boutique, and This Little Piggy, plus there’s an Everyman Cinema for stylish popcorn stuffing. For kids, Oakwood Climbing Centre is on the same road as the hotel, Coral Reef Waterworld is just a few miles away, and LEGOLAND Windsor is just 25 minutes by car.

THE VERDICT

Good for: A fun night away with friends or a partner! The fantastic restaurant, bar, and surrounding area makes for a perfect one-stop shop to a fab weekend escape. This is a great venue for hosting special occasions and events too.

Not for: Spa breakers! There’s no spa facilities or pool here so don’t come expecting a hot stone massage and a pedi.

The damage: Room rates start at £119 per night. The Lady Evelyn Afternoon Tea is £35pp. For dinner, expect to pay from £8 for starters, £24 for a main, and £9 for a pudding.

Words by Ellie Ball

Easthampstead Park, Off Peacock Ln, Bracknell, Wokingham RG40 3DF. Phone: 0118 974 7576.

Review: Easthampstead Park, Wokingham

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