Berkshire, England
Cliveden House
An Anglophile's mecca
What it is
A 376-acre estate that’s been turning heads since 1666.
What it isn't
Minimalist. Expect everything to be grand.
What we think
If Jane Austen and her ilk ever found themselves in want of an estate to host their husband-hunting country balls, Cliveden would more than suffice. It was built more than 300 years back for the 2nd Duke of Buckingham’s mistress, and later acquired by William Waldorf Astor for $1.25 million in 1893. But it remains as manicured as a Middleton: Even the smallest of rooms is stocked with antique furniture and has hosted storied guests (like Rudyard Kipling). Many are fitted with private terraces and hot tubs. But you won’t likely spend much time in your suite, not when the activity list is nothing short of cinematic: You can borrow a restored 1930’s 33-foot slipper launch boat to float the Thames, or arrange chillaxing treatments in the brand new (Summer 2017), jasmine-shrouded garden-side spa. Don’t leave the premises without taking at least one afternoon tea, which includes fruitcake, just-baked scones and Devonshire clotted cream served on china designed for Lady Astor herself.
You're here because
You have seen every episode of Downton Abbey thrice, and it’s time to play Lord of the Manor—sans plot twists.
The Moment
With your iPhones tucked away in the room, you and your partner stroll the formal gardens arm-in-arm, pausing to take notes in the six-acre Parterre that John Fleming designed in 1855 (once you’ve seen the ribbons of snowdrops and daffodils, you simply must try them at home).
Restaurants & Bars
André Garrett Restaurant - innovative dishes, fastidious preparation and immaculate finishes shine through in each of André Garrett's exquisitely crafted culinary creations. André’s love of locally sourced and fresh produce means the three course à la carte and eight course tasting menus are governed by English ingredients, guided by the seasons.
Astor Grill - Open from brunch, lunch, and dinner. A cosmopolitan venue, steeped in history, its romantic setting offers all the style and legendary hospitality that Cliveden is famous for. Located in the charming old stable block, the Astor Grill is full of character, adopting an equestrian theme in its décor and offering a simple and informal approach to dining at Cliveden. The menu is overseen by Executive Chef André Garrett and it focuses on a mixture of classic American and British dishes.
Afternoon Tea in the Great Hall - Savour the quintessentially English past-time of taking afternoon tea with a perfectly prepared selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with home-made jam and clotted cream, miniature delectable bite-size cakes, pastries and delicacies, the famous Cliveden fruit cake and full-bodied and aromatic Cliveden blend teas. For true decadence enjoy a glass of Taittinger Champagne with your Classic afternoon tea experience.
Private Dining - Dine in unrivaled exclusivity. The party history of the house makes us the perfect spot for an intimate celebration over fine food and wine. For over 200 years, the elite have entertained at Cliveden. Join the likes of Chaplin, Churchill, Lennon and Lawrence in hosting your own spectacular private dining affair in our elegant and opulent private rooms.
Location
Just an hour’s drive from London, Cliveden House sits about 20 minutes from another fine house: Windsor Castle.