Review: Nichola Hirst
Billesley Manor is a 16th Century Manor house set in 11 acres of sprawling grounds which feature a pretty fountain pond, coppice and a Topiary garden shaped as a giant chess set. There are 71 elegantly-styled bedrooms and suites that sit in the original manor house and also bedrooms in the restored Cedar Barns. The hotel has spa facilities which include a swimming pool, sauna and steam room. This is an ideally located hotel for exploring the area of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare, and a popular town packed with culture.
On arrival we were greeted by the lovely reception team who checked us in and showed us to the bar where we got a quick drink and then we were seated for our afternoon tea. We sat down to have afternoon tea in the Stuart Restaurant which had original oak panelling and large stone fireplaces, we had a selection of sandwiches, cakes and scones with clotted cream whilst sitting next to the grand windows overlooking the Topiary gardens.
After a mini-feast we headed over to our stylish (and newly refurbished) Cedar Barn bedroom. Our room was sleek and chic with a beautiful king size bed, dressing table, an oak wardrobe and a gorgeous en-suite bathroom.
In the evening we dinned in the Stuart restaurant and were lucky to be given what was described as ‘the best table in the house’, we enjoyed a 3 course meal which started with spiced duck terrine and crackers, and goats cheese pannacotta with Nero chutney & black olive glass.
For mains I opted for pan fried chicken with wild mushroom risotto cake, wilted spinach, black carrots and truffle jus. My husband plumped for pork belly with creamed potatoes, kale, red wine jus.
For dessert, the Chef’s cheese selection included three local cheeses, Quince jelly, grapes and celery. The chocolate torte was a sweet lovers dream accompanied with salted honey popcorn, Feuilletine and vanilla ice-cream.
The next morning, a breakfast to set up for the day ahead is in order. A traditional option of full English breakfast is always a winner and there are several a la Carte options including Eggs Royale or Benedict. The continental buffet included a tasty selection of meats, cheese, yoghurts and butter pastries. We enjoyed all these delights with a good English Breakfast tea.
To finish of the relaxing stay we had a walk around the garden taking in the beautiful scenery before heading home.
Billesley Manor Hotel | Billesley | Alcester | B49 6NF