The Royal Berkshire, a Queen Anne-style country house hotel near Ascot, was once home to two powerful British families and now offers a relaxing escape just an hour from London.
A Historic Property with Royal Connections
The centuries-old mansion was originally built as the home of Lady Mary, daughter of former Prime Minister Sir Robert Walpole, and Charles Churchill of Chalfont. At the beginning of World War I, Colonel Horlick moved in and made major upgrades, including adding one of the first private swimming pools and the Walled Garden.
Today, the country house has been transformed into a hotel with 66 rooms and suites and is part of the Exclusive Collection hotel group.
Accommodation and Amenities
The Scarlet Oak room is an open-plan suite with a separate lounge, overlooking the hotel's sweeping drive. It features a super king-sized bed, two TVs, a dining table, a working desk, and a bath with an Aquavision TV.
The interior combines modern luxury with Revival designs, featuring natural wood panelling, sash windows, polished brass lighting, and high-end home appliances.
Weddings and Grounds
The Royal Berkshire is a popular wedding venue, hosting a Wedding Experience Day during the stay. The event space is decorated with white and pink floral bouquets and draping tulle.
The property sits in 15 acres of landscaped grounds, including a secret walled garden, rose garden, woodland paths, and an ornamental pond. The hotel does not have pool or spa facilities.
Dining and Nearby Attractions
Fork, the contemporary dining restaurant, serves British and European food, with highlights including halloumi bites, beef cheek bon bon, rump steak, poached haddock, and clementine panna cotta.
Nearby attractions include Windsor Great Park Illuminated, running from November 13 to January 3, and Lapland UK, a Christmas-themed park with reindeer and a toy factory, a nine-minute drive away.
The stay at Royal Berkshire was relaxing, offering a countryside escape from the city. Given its history as home to the Horlicks family, a complimentary Horlicks before sleep would be a nice touch.
