When it comes to Luxury Spa Breaks in the UK you really can’t afford to miss out on the highly acclaimed Chewton Glen. Situated just 10 minutes walk from the sea (and some beautiful sandy beaches), the luxury spa is nestled at the tip of the New Forest (Hampshire) in the South East of England.
We recently visited the Spa and discovered a level of relaxation that we have never experienced before. After some time debating between ourselves why Chewton Glen felt so different to many other spas that we’ve visited we came to the conclusion that their secret lies in their unique combination of premium quality at every turn, and incredibly friendly and down to earth staff who have clearly mastered the art of communication!
As you enter the regal gates and navigate the sweeping drive with beautifully mowed lawns either side of you it’s unmistakable that you have reached one of England’s finest spa retreats. You arrive directly at the front porch where you are greeted by porters all keen to allow you to relax as soon as you get out of the car. There’s a very different feel about this place from the outset; no arrogance, pompousness… more like a family all wanting to ensure every part of your stay is a memorable one…
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With a regular clientele consisting of the likes of Nigella Lawson and Sean Connery, Poilane has carved its name on the culinary map of London’s finest bakers.
Located on Elizabeth Street in the heart of Belgravia, Poilane originated on the fashionable rue du Cherche-Midi in Paris. The shop is an exact replica of its French counterpart. It’s simplistic, free of gimmicks and smells adorable as soon as you walk in!
The speciality of the house is sourdough, which is thick crusted, handmade and baked daily on site along with other delicacies such as rye bread; nut bread; raisin bread; brioches, croissants, pain au chocolat and the famous Poilâne apple tart.
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Set in the heart of London’s exclusive Mayfair district is the rather delightful Dorchester Hotel. This hotel is 5 stars all the way and is adorned with beautiful furnishings and incredibly polite staff. After a delightful cocktail at the bar we were taken to our table in the highly renowned Alain Ducasse restaurant which had been designed by Patrick Jouin.
Let’s spend a second on the design… it’s beautiful! Taking inspiration from Hyde Park opposite, Jouin has created an atmosphere that can only be described as tranquil. Using a mixture of greens, browns and creams combined with some extraordinary shapes, the entire restaurant oozes sophistication and class from the moment you enter its domain. The restaurant itself offers three areas of private dining, one of which is a truly ingenious centre stage within a fibre optic curtain that changes colour… it has to be seen to be truly appreciated.
Now to the service… as you’d expect with French dining the staff are incredibly professional and courteous. Not for one moment will your glass be left empty or your taste buds craving, the entire experience is just one of those things that has to be experienced to be enjoyed.
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Posted by Patrick Woolmer on Thu 11th September 2008 at 04:47 AM, Filed in Luxury Food
La Maison du Chocolat, the luxury Parisian chocolatier, presents its Hatbox collection. A selection of 4 luxurious hampers for the ultimate christmas gift.
Each Hatbox is composed of all the quintessential favourite chocolate creations, showcased in a rather tasteful box.
The Discovery Hatbox Price - £49
Contains
- 1 box of 16 pralines 120 g,
- 1 clip Amandas 225 g,
- 1 box of 18 Tobago.
The sweetness Hatbox Price - £89
Contains
- 1 coffret Maison 400 g of assorted chocolates,
- 1 box of caramels 200 g,
- 1 box of coated fruits 170 g,
- 1 Mérida bar (milk chocolate) 100 g.
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With the opportunity to trial the delights of the Mandeville Hotel (deVille restaurant) in London and its AA Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence (2008 ) we knew we were in for a right royal treat. We’d heard about the Mandeville’s unique decor designed by Stephen Ryan with its theatrical atmosphere, and as a creative person this is the sort of thing that really excites me I have to say!
Arriving promptly at 8pm we were immediately hit by the delicious decor of the hotel, coupled with its chic ambience. It was quieter than we thought it would be for a Thursday night, with just a handful of people enjoying the culinary delights on offer.
We started off the evening tasting a couple of their ‘melon cocktails’ which we have to say were divine. The service was outstanding from all the staff all night. We were seated in the restaurant and ordered our meals starting with the scallops and then on to the lamb rump which was cooked to perfection. We finished on the chocolate fondant which was probably one of the finest we have ever tasted (and we‘ve had a few!).
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