THE LOWDOWN

Review: Monkey Island Estate Hotel in Bray best hotels near windsor

Roll out the red carpet. Monkey Island Estate in beguiling Bray is a five star bolthole that quite frankly, needs no introduction. Home to 41 exquisite guest rooms, a floating spa (yes, really), a riverside brasserie, bar, and the iconic Wedgewood Suite, nothing is done by half measures here. But as sister hotel to The Gainsborough Bath Spa, you’d expect nothing less. Back in 2019, it was resurrected from a crumbling Grade I listed wreck to a luxury crash pad and party palace for a cosmopolitan crowd. Well, there is a tradition to keep up.

Review: Monkey Island Estate Hotel in Bray best hotels near me

Strap in for one hell of a history lesson. For centuries, the fish-shaped island was the playground for royalty, aristos, artists and well-heeled Berkshire locals. Queen Victoria visited, Edward VII had afternoon tea, it hosted famous singers Clara Butt and Dame Nellie Melba, plus Dusty Springfield, and it features in Jerome K Jerome’s Three Men in a Boat. Oh, and HG Wells and lover Rebecca West would often slope off to Monkey Island for clandestine shenanigans (naughty).

In fact, the two original buildings you can see on the island today were built in the 1700s after barges dumped rubble from the 1666 Great Fire of London onto the land, raising it above flood level and making it suitable for building. Environmental think tanks or mere opportunists? London’s loss is Monkey Island’s gain.

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Fast-forward to today, the exclusive hotel is every weekend escapees dreamboat destination – all raring for a taste of the island life. Weddings are incredibly popular here. No surprises though. It’s absolutely breathtaking. On site, you’ll find space for every occasion, able to host up to 120 guests in the Marlborough Ballroom, and up to 100 guests in the River Room. I’m told exclusive use of the entire hotel is a very sought-after option.

For something even more lavish, 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.

THE VIBE

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Located in the foodie mecca of Bray, it’s the winding drive up to the hotel that had me tingling with excitement. Head down Ferry Lane, over the motorway bridge and, ta-dah, the white Palladian stucco of Monkey Island peeks out through the greenery. Park up, check-in with the incredibly lovely receptionists at The Boat House, and be transported, literally, to another world. It’s like crossing the bridge into Terabithia.

Review: Monkey Island Estate Hotel in Bray

Across the other side, discover seven bucolic acres to waft around like a character from a Jane Austen novel. The landscaping is jaw-droppingly beautiful. Riots of rainbow flowers, squads of swaggering geese, and dragonflies pootling over the surrounding Thames waters. It’s so quintessentially English, it’s like stepping into Beatrix Potter’s garden. The entire walkway of white hydrangeas in full bloom were the most stunning I’ve ever seen.

As for the river, simply sling back and watch the parade of flashy boats cruise on by. Yes, yes, the sun does make everything look better. But come winter or summer, Monkey Island would maintain its magic no matter the season. It’s life in the slow lane personified, and a true escape in every sense of the word.

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Hop inside to The Pavillion where you’ll find The Monkey Island Brasserie, The Monkey Bar, The Monkey Room, and The Whisky Snug. The walls are living and breathing relics of the island’s history. And the stonking quality of the face lift the place was given a few years back is clear to see. Hand-painted wallpapers, herringbone parquet flooring, scented candles, squishy sofas in the bar, and artworks that mind map Monkey Island’s past.

Review: Monkey Island Estate Hotel in Bray monkey bar

The Monkey Room is a marvel in its own right. Monkey inspired (obvs) and adorned with 17th century frescos on the ceilings that wouldn’t look out of place in the Louvre. All guests can hunker down in here for a tipple and to soak in the history. There’s a fireplace too – perfect for drinking away the brisk winter nights.

The vibe is grown up, chic, and screams sophistication. If Tom Cruise was whisking you away for the weekend (we can dream ladies), you’d want it to be here. It’s incredibly romantic, and has a real cosy and quirky feel.

Review: Monkey Island Estate Hotel in Bray

Monkey Island is a five star shiner and it shows. From the moment you check in, the level of professionalism and attentiveness is second-to-none. The staff constantly go out of their way to make your stay as comfortable as possible without being overbearing. Upon our arrival, we were offered drinks and immediately asked if we needed assistance with ours bags. The top managers also put in the shoe leather, getting out to greet guests by name, and ensure they’re having a good time. Always a tell-tale sign of a top notch hotel that takes its job seriously.

SCOFF & QUAFF

Review: Monkey Island Estate Hotel in Bray

Clink, clink, lady! A Monkey Island soirée is, of course, best enjoyed with a bottle of Champagne. We basked in a beautiful Billecart Salmon Brut Reserve and whittled away the hours nattering and watching the resident geese (and their adorable chicks) flap about the waters from the sunny terrace. So edenic. Berkshire’s answer to the Maldives? Yes it is.

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Come evening, there was a reservation in The Monkey Island Brasserie with our name on it. No starchy white table cloths and stiff upper lipped waiters here. The restaurant is informal, yet the quality bar is sky high. Expect a funky, Insta-worthy palette of teals and mustard yellows with an open window into the kitchen to watch the chefs work their magic.

Review: Monkey Island Estate Hotel in Bray

The brasserie makes the most of those river views, and in the summer the classic French doors are flung open to capitalise on inside-out dining. The menu itself is an ode to the best of British cuisine, using only the very finest, locally sourced ingredients. In fact, some of it is even sourced from the gardens and surrounding countryside. Nice.

You can also grab a traditional afternoon tea with all the trimmings, plus a roast dinner on Sundays. Want to keep it casual? Anyone’s welcome to pop in for a drink and soak up the mesmeric waterside vistas too.

Review: Monkey Island Estate Hotel in Bray brasserie

All that Champagne swigging is thirsty work, so naturally a three-course whopper was on the cards. To start, we grabbed a half lobster tail delicately infused in a luscious prawn bisque and complemented by a zesty lemon purée. It was beeeeautiful. So light and fresh, and just what summer called for. Across the table, a mushroom duxelles in flaky puff pastry with golden quail eggs and rich hollandaise was had. Again, incredibly delicate and moreish, and the quality of ingredients was evident. A giant basket of warm bread accompanied which went down a treat.

For mains, my fellow foodie opted for duck breast with potatoes, courgettes, and pak choi, accented with notes of celeriac and umami-rich black garlic. I’m told the flavour was stunningly rich and the meat so tender.

Review: Monkey Island Estate Hotel in Bray brasserie

For me, it was the steak. A 10oz west country ribeye with crispy hand-cut chips, cherry tomatoes and bernaise sauce to be exact. Compliments to the chef – it was cooked and seasoned to utter perfection. You also really get bang for your buck. It was a very generous hunk of beef.

FYI, the cocktail list is to die for. Don’t leave without having a Monkey Bug (or five). A tropical dream of Coconut Rum, Banana Liqueur, Midori, Lime, and Pineapple. It’s like summer in a glass. Mocktails, spirits, beers, ciders, softies, and a fantastic wine list are also on tap.

To finish, two lovely desserts swung our way – the Gooseberry Fool (exactly what I was for thinking I could hack a pud after the first two courses) and a Crème Brûlée. The perfect way to finish the meal, even if I did have to be rolled back to the room. Only mere steps away though. Thank god.

Review: Monkey Island Estate Hotel in Bray brasserie breakfast

As if I needed to shove any more food down my gullet, breakfast the next day saw a super laid-back affair. And after the great night’s sleep I had, I actually had more of an appetite than I thought I would. A small but mighty spread of fruits, cereals, yoghurts, and spreads awaited. But actually, it’s more of an order off the menu type situation which I love. Our attentive waiter was all too happy to grab anything we wanted for us. I went for a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice and a basket of freshly baked croissants. Delicious!

For hot food, we had the eggs benedict and avocado on toast which both hit the spot. No better way to start the day. There were a number of items on the menu which also tickled my fancy (the full English!), plus Monkey Island’s own blended coffee and a selection of teas.

STAY

Review: Monkey Island Estate Hotel in Bray wedgewood suite

As for the matter of resting weary heads, there are two areas of rooms in the hotel. The main historic part is on the island itself at The Temple, plus there’s also 11 Barn Rooms located just off the island, opposite the private residences. Every room comes complete with a Queen sized bed, WIFI, TV, tea and coffee facilities, bathrobes, slippers, a hairdryer, and more.

My, my, was I in for an absolute treat. The historic Wedgewood Suite was mine for the night and from the moment I entered the room, I was quite frankly awe-struck. From the 360 dark wood cladding, to the portrait of the Duke of Marlborough at Monkey Island hanging on the wall, it was a feast for the eyes. Dating back to the 1700s, the Grade I listed suite is the work of award-winning Champalimaud Design (responsible for London’s Dorchester and New York’s Carlyle). It’s the definition of pure, unbridled indulgence.

Review: Monkey Island Estate Hotel in Bray wedgewood suite

The decorative and original plaster ceilings are so incredibly ornate, it was like snoozing inside the Queen’s favourite Wedgewood tea set. You could just tell there were hidden stories in every single crevice and groove. With about a dozen windows to boot too, the room is absolutely flooded with light – overlooking the landscaped and bucolic hotel grounds and river. I can safely say I’ve never seen or stayed anywhere like it.

It’s a real special occasion room – somewhere you’d want to spend your wedding night or a special anniversary weekend away. Or quite frankly, just because you can.

There was a mini fridge with full raiding rights, and I loved the inclusion of an actual Wedgewood tea set and the classic music which rang out through the room on the vintage-style radio. It’s the little touches that made this so special.

Review: Monkey Island Estate Hotel in Bray bathroom

As for the bathroom, well, it was bigger than most London flats. Light, bright, and the tiling was delicious. There’s a seperate room for bathing (of course, I jumped in there to test it out – it didn’t disappoint). Plus, you also get a range of mini Clarins toiletries to use, including a lavender pillow spray which is left after the turn down service. Delightful.

I loved the walk-in wardrobes and seperate space for washing and dressing (again, perfect if you’re a bride getting ready). And none of those napkin-sized bath towels you often get in hotels here either. Bits and bobs were well and truly covered, people.

Just downstairs from the suite, there is also a lounge which guests are free to use which is stacked with goodies like water and games, should you need to break for cover on rainy days.

SPA

Review: Monkey Island Estate Hotel in Bray spa

Gather close and I’ll let you in on a little secret. The Floating Spa at Monkey Island Estate is open to absolutely everybody, guest or not. Don’t spread the word too far though. I’m keeping this hidden gem on speed dial.

On board the quirky bijou barge boat, you’ll find a handful of lovely treatment rooms where you can enjoy a bespoke menu of treatments from massages to facials – all 60 minutes long. Idly floating on The Thames, from the moment you step foot inside, the sense of peace and tranquility instantly washes over you. You’re quietly given a form to fill out before being led down the corridor to your room.

Review: Monkey Island Estate Hotel in Bray spa

I had the signature Floating Massage which takes place upon a specially designed aqua-cushion treatment bed that cradles and supports you, plus offers a better depth of pressure. The best thing I can liken it to would be a water bed. And seeing as we were actually on water, it so fitting and felt like I was literally floating away. The entire massage takes place lying face up and is a full body experience – from legs and arms to back, neck, and stomach.

My therapist was incredible – so graceful and rhythmic in her movements which lulled me into a reverie. She also took into account what I wanted to get out of the massage (rid the tension held in my back from sitting at a desk five days a week). So, she really went to town on the knots and I could instantly feel myself loosen up.

It was so healing listening to the gentle and natural soundtrack of birds tweeting and water lapping against the boat. The essential oils of arnica, ginger, and rosemary smelt delicious, and the products used came from MOSS of the ISLES which are 100% natural, handcrafted, and organic. It was just the rejuvenation I needed. Same again next week?

ACCESSIBILITY

The footbridge over to the island can be navigated by wheelchair users, as can the paths. There is one accessible garden room too.

KIDS

With all that room to stomp around in, they’ll have a field day! Kids are welcome at Monkey Island, although there are no rooms with single beds. A children’s menu is also offered in the Brasserie.

OUT & ABOUT

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You’re on the fringe of the gastronomic enclave of Bray – the Michelin stars guiding you in like an airport runway. When you’re not slinging back cocktails in The Monkey Bar, beeline to the village for Heston’s three star The Fat Duck, one star The Hind’s Head, or Alain Roux’s three Michelin twinkler, The Waterside Inn. Windsor is in striking distance for a right royal day out. But pootling along on the hotel’s very own private boat sounds up my street. Charter it for the day and explore The Thames waters. Adventure seekers will love nearby Bray Lake for watersports, segwaying, and even a bungee jump. I’ll stick to the rosé.

THE VERDICT

Monkey Island Estate is up there as one of the best hotels I’ve stayed at on home soil. From the attention to detail to the palpable feeling of escape you get the moment you step across the bridge, it’s just pure indulgence. When it was time to go home, I practically had to be physically dragged away. I have a feeling I’ll be daydreaming about my stay here for a long time to come.

Review: Monkey Island Estate Hotel in Bray

Good for: Romantic getaways. It’s impossible not to fall head over heels with the charm and elegance of Monkey Island. It’s the definition of paradise, and one you’d happily stay marooned on forever.

Not for: Those who want every amenity at their disposal. There’s no swimming pool, gym or traditional spa facilities here. But with the beautiful surrounds right on the doorstep, I don’t think it’s missed.

The damage: Room rates start from £275 per room, per night in a Temple Room. Spa treatments start at £85. The Floating Massage is £130. In the brasserie, starters are from £8, mains from £16, sides £5, and puds from £7.

Words by Ellie Ball

Monkey Island Estate, Bray, Berkshire SL6 2EE. Tel: 01628 623400.

Review: Monkey Island Estate, Bray

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