Enchanted Manor
Text by Uracha Chaiyapinunt
Situated in the most picturesque corner of the Cotswolds in the village of Upper Slaughter is Lords of the Manor. Formerly a rectory dating back to 1649, the manor became a hotel in the mid-20th century, and has been tastefully preserved by the Munir family who acquired the property in the 1990s, turning the estate into what is today known as one of the most acclaimed Cotswolds luxury hotels. The manor’s goals are to provide the perfect setting for visitors — idyllic surroundings, manicured gardens, top-notch service, a Michelin-starred restaurant — and intentionally nothing more, leaving guests to decide for themselves how they’d like to spend their time in the countryside.
All 26 guest rooms at the manor have its own character. The suites boast sweeping views over the immaculately maintained gardens, lake or courtyard, while the rooms are housed in the renovated barn and granary. The Munir family continue to furnish the house with portraits and antiques belonging to the former owner, who still lives in the village and pops in from time to time. Expect long days in the libraries with French windows thrown wide in the summer.
What you might not expect about Lords of the Manor is that it is a culinary destination itself, housing not one, but two of the finest restaurants in Gloucestershire, The Dining Room and Atrium. Head Chef Charles Smith uses classical French influences to elevate seasonally led British Cuisine. The menu draws on the produce of the area and lets the quality of local ingredients speak for themselves.
Other than spending time at the hotel, guests should take advantage of the manor’s short drive from the enchanting towns of Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water. Embrace the village experience and take in the historic buildings the area is known for, before grabbing a souvenir at the boutiques around town. A night here and you will soon see why the London crowd love to think of the Cotswolds as their second home.
This article appears in Summer 2019 issue of Chanintr Living Download full issue
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