The North Wing At Combermere Abbey – Reviewed

 If the thought of butler-serviced, quintessential suites nestled in an impressive 143 acres of rolling parkland takes your fancy, please keep on reading this review of the incredible historic Combermere Abbey. 

Arriving at Combermere Abbeys gated grounds, we couldn’t help but admire the approaching restored North Wing as we were driving down the long driveway. Rich in history, its’ restorations have shown great respect for the past and we come to learn that the abbey still adorns it’s original stone foundations and medieval wood cladding.

Upon arrival through the North Wing’s own private entrance, we were warmly greeted by one of Combermere’s knowledgeable building managers who showed us the ropes of the 16th-century building. We were lucky enough to have the luxury of experiencing the entire North Wing privately! Stephan, the manager, then took us on a historic and informative tour of the Abbey highlighting how this incredible structure was restored to its former glory. Having been shown the beautiful open plan dining and reading room stocked with fine wines, spirits and snacks should we get peckish for a midnight snack (or tipple!), we then found ourselves walking up the enchanting spiral staircase to a large central lobby where the two bedrooms and cosy living room branched out from.

We were then directed to the Salamanca room in which we were staying. Decorated in tranquil shades of blue and silver by the well-known interior designer, Nina Campbell, this suite oozed luxury and comfort. With it’s alluring super-king sized antique gilded bed, fluffy carpets and crushed velvet accents, the room radiated lavishness. Our attention was then quickly turned by the breath-taking bathroom which came complete with a marble clad bath adjacent to a large gothic window that overlooks the mere, twin basins a waterfall shower area.

After we were left to our own devices, I thought this would be the perfect time to crack open our complimentary bottle of fizz and take advantage of the dreary English weather with a hot bubble bath. The bathroom had miniature bottles of Mitchell And Peach Flora No.1 bath and body products which is yet another touch of luxury Combermere Abbey offers to its guests. So, here I was, 7 pm in a historic retreat, champagne flute in hand, listening to the soft rain beat off the windows, it’s safe to say it felt like tranquillity at it’s finest!

Having had some time to unwind after the lengthy drive to Shropshire from Surrey, we leisurely got ready for our meal at Docket No.33 and headed out, locking the Abbey behind us. Being the only guests staying in the North Wing, we unsurprisingly felt incredibly safe due to the private gates within the secured grounds as well as the fact that the other side of the building is occupied by the owners and their family. So should anything go awry, there is always someone on site to help.

Upon arriving back from our incredible meal at Dockett No.33, the Egyptian cotton bedsheets were certainly calling our names! Although, we did not give in before selecting our breakfast in anticipation for the morning. Waking up after a heavenly night’s sleep, we headed downstairs and were welcomed with a pristinely laid out table complete with a sprig of lavender. A subtle yet stunning addition. We were then greeted by another one of Combermere Abbey’s managers who served us a delicious cooked breakfast with an extensive selection of cereals, yoghurt, pastries and hot beverages as well as fresh handpicked berries from Combermere’s own fruit ‘maze’ – yet another lovely unique touch.

Breakfast over and our time at the North Wing was almost up, so we packed our bags and said our goodbyes before heading out for a walk around the grounds. The sun was shining and the picturesque lake was a sea of white swan feathers which was the perfect ending to our stay. In summary, our break at Combermere Abbey was faultless, the building is renovated beautifully and respectfully, the staff are attentive and informative and the thoughtful extras this luxurious bed and breakfast offer truly makes it a one of a kind experience. So, if you’re looking for to get away, Combemere Abbeys North Wing is not only an exemplary choice but a must-see.

A special thanks to Doug Krier Photography for allowing us to use these wonderful images of Combermere Abbey.