After deciding to take a UK short break, we had the usual debate – to camp or not to camp? My husband wanted canvas in the great outdoors, and I wanted the home comforts of a hotel or cottage.
With the unpredictable UK weather in mind, choosing a UK break is tricky. Pick a campsite, and the chances are it will rain. Opt to go near the sea, and it will probably be too cold to swim.
So, when we plumped for a country manor house in Berkshire offering plenty of indoor and outdoor activities and geared at the adults-only market, we gave ourselves a smug pat on the back. Either way, we had it covered.
On arrival at Warner Leisure Hotels’ Littlecote House Hotel, near Hungerford, we realised we were not staying in the mansion. A word of warning to travel agents making bookings – read the small print. If we had, we would have realised only the historic rooms are located in the old house.
The others – contemporary royale, signature and ambassador – are in modern wings next to the house. Our signature room was modern, stylish and nicely appointed with tea and coffee-making facilities, radio and TV.
At the front desk we received a programme of events, which included everything from medieval jousting to piano recitals on the lawn. I tried t’ai chi, Pilates and had a singing lesson – the rain prevented us from taking part in archery or rifle shooting, so we opted for the quiz. All were fun and professionally run. After a massage at the on-site Stables Leisure Club, I was definitely in holiday mode.
Littlecote House, a secluded 16th-century mansion that was once home to Cromwellian troops and served as a base for US paratroopers during the Second World War, is worth looking around. It boasts an impressive Roman mosaic uncovered during the 1970s, and a ghost story that would send a shiver down the spine of even the most unshakeable visitor.
Evening entertainment was provided by a comedian and a cabaret – we missed one of the summer highlights, The Hollies – but fellow guest, 80-year-old Len, made our evening, by regaling us with tales of his youth.
Going to a Warner Leisure Hotel is like going on a cruise – dinner at the main Popham restaurant is between set hours and seating is at the same table each night, before evening entertainment kicks off in the main hall.
For clients who prefer more flexible dining options, there is a paid-for on-site restaurant, Oliver’s, or Hungerford is a short drive away for local eateries. Food was good quality at both on-site restaurants and the staff friendly and helpful.
Okay, there were embarrassing moments (“are they really line-dancing?”), but it was worth it to hear Len’s stories of growing up in London 70 years ago.
And, like he said, the older generation has the money now, “not you young-uns”. This would explain why holidaymakers at Littlecote were mainly over 70. This is definitely an option to sell to mature customers who enjoy package holidays and cruises.
Sample package
Three-night weekend breaks at Littlecote House start from £254 per person, departing November 6, including English or continental breakfast, three-course evening meal, en suite accommodation and daytime and evening activities and entertainment. bourneleisuresales.co.uk, 0808 141 1111
