Luxury Babymoon in the Cotswolds: A Historic Stay at Ellenborough Park
I found myself in a 15th-century drawing room, with a grand portrait of Catherine Parr watching over as I spread clotted cream on a scone and added a lemon wedge to my water. The scene felt straight out of Bridgerton, but for a few blissful days, I was living the Upstairs life. A crackling fire added to the ambiance, while guests in fluffy white robes drifted by, fresh from the spa, sauna, or perhaps a glass of Taittinger in the hot tub.
Choosing a Staycation Over Tradition
Instead of opting for a more traditional babymoon on a Spanish beach, I decided on a staycation in the Cotswolds, nestled within the wood-paneled walls of Ellenborough Park. This sprawling 90-acre estate, bordering Cheltenham racecourse, dates back to 1485 when tenant farmer Thomas Goodman built his home here, block by sandstone block. Originally known as Southam House, it has been called Ellenborough Park since 2010, with its rich history including landlords like the De la Bere family, who arrived with William the Conqueror. The farmer's original coat of arms still adorns the front door.
Historical touches abound, from musket holes believed to be from the English Civil War, possibly including one from Oliver Cromwell, to meticulously restored features like the original stairs and stained glass windows commemorating Henry VI and Elizabeth of York. Enjoying a nightcap or a game of chess in such a historic setting is a rare luxury.
Five-Star Glamour and Comfort
Ellenborough Park is a deliciously five-star hotel, offering ye olde world glamour fit for royalty. Upon entering, guests are greeted by manicured lawns, a Taittinger Terrace, and a sandstone facade that has stood for 500 years at the foot of Cleeve Hill. The rooms feature four-poster beds, clawfoot bathtubs, red fabric couches, and plenty of dark, stained wood. Underfloor heating and an exceptionally comfortable mattress ensured one of the best pregnancy sleeps I've ever had.
The hotel excels in service, with nightly turn-down service, private entry to the racecourse, and dedicated staff committed to making stays as comfortable and exclusive as possible. Even four-legged friends are catered to with a self-serve outdoor Paw Spa for scrubbing up and treats before dinner.
Gourmet Dining and Posh Perks
Dining at the hotel's two eateries, the Horse Box Brasserie or the Restaurant, means you never have to leave. I enjoyed a starter of king prawns seasoned with soy, lime, chilli, and garlic (£10), followed by a creamy cep risotto with a giant king oyster mushroom and parmesan (£24). For dessert, a shared sticky toffee pudding with brandy snap and clotted cream ice cream (£10) was a highlight. The bartender also crafted a delightful non-alcoholic strawberry and elderflower drink to quench my pregnancy thirst.
A standout moment was entering the Dubarry Boot Room, which felt like stepping into Willy Wonka's factory. Rows of Dubarry and Hunter boots, pricey waterproofs, gilets, and a croquet set were available for guests to borrow. Stomping around the fields in £700 worth of boots and jacket added to the posh Cotswolds experience, though I anxiously reminded myself to return them before dusk to avoid charges.
Even in chilly spring weather, the outdoor pool, heated to a claimed balmy 28 degrees, allowed for a delightful float surrounded by daffodils and steam billowing into the March air.
Exclusive Extras and Local Explorations
The hotel goes above and beyond to make guests feel special. Through a partnership with nearby Bicester Village, the concierge arranged a VIP shopping experience for our drive home. A 90-minute trip led us to the invitation-only Apartment, where we relaxed over chai tea and craft beer before exploring the designer outlet mall. For those looking to spend, personal shoppers and bag holders could be organized.
While it's tempting to stay within the hotel, Cheltenham town offers its own charms. We visited Society Cafe for coffee and sweets, strolled along the Promenade to the leafy Montpelier area, and grabbed a sausage roll and focaccia from For The Saints for a bench-side people-watching session in Montpelier Gardens. For dinner, The Vine's Thai kitchen, hailed as the best in town, served up a fabulous chicken pad thai and beef spicy noodles, with Early Bird specials making it a bargain at £12.95 for mains. The non-alcoholic selection, including a 0.0% cider, was impressive.
Practical Details for Your Stay
Returning to my room with a full belly and expertly turned-down duvet, I realized this stay-at-home babymoon suited me perfectly. Ellenborough Park is located just outside Cheltenham in the Cotswolds, about a two-hour drive from London. Free on-site parking is available, and it's easily accessible from the M5. For train travelers, Cheltenham Spa railway station offers direct services from London Paddington in roughly two hours, followed by a 10-minute taxi ride. The closest major airport is Birmingham Airport, about 1 hour 20 minutes by car, while Heathrow is approximately a two-hour drive.
Room rates at Ellenborough Park start from £269 per night for a double room on a bed and breakfast basis, offering a luxurious escape steeped in history and modern comfort.
