Another unforgettable high season in the Hamptons has come to a close which means globetrotting East Enders are now eager to travel to the most luxurious locations that offer singular experiences. “Town and Country” escapes are a hot travel trend for Hamptonites as they offer a similar blend of urban excitement and rural tranquility for those who love the dichotomy of living between New York City and the Hamptons. A customized fall travel itinerary from London to Somerset, England is such a felicitous fit. Enjoy the iconic cultural attractions, cutting-edge dining, and royal flare of the capital city while staying at The Lanesborough Hotel in Knightsbridge, London and then hit the road for a beautiful two-hour drive (or train ride) through rolling hills, painterly landscapes, and charming villages to The Newt in Somerset. Situated in the heart of England’s West Country, Somerset allows for a deeper connection with England’s rich history and natural beauty. HRES shares a bespoke travel guide with all the details you need to plan an unforgettable trip across the pond below…
Travel Consultant Jackie Roth of London-based luxury travel company Scott Dunn shares, “We’re finding nowadays that guests want just a snippet of the hustle & bustle of city life, then they choose to spend the rest of the time decompressing in the countryside. This combo works quite well, especially doing the city first because you have tons of energy at the start of your trip and we find that most guests are eager to explore right away. Then as the days go on it’s nice to get into a bit of a slower rhythm and even have some entirely free days, to explore or relax as you may wish, and that’s where the English countryside comes in.”
First stop, the historic Lanesborough Hotel in London is a quintessential symbol of British luxury and sophistication. With its stunning Regency-style architecture and interiors designed by Alberto Pinto. The hotel provides a perfect base for exploring some of the city’s most iconic attractions. Just a short stroll away is Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, and the Wellington Arch. For power shoppers, the world-renowned Harrods and Harvey Nichols department stores are nearby, along with the luxury boutiques of Sloane Street.
Top experiences not to miss when staying at The Lanesborough:
The Lanesborough Club & Spa
A sanctuary of relaxation, this award-winning spa offers a range of treatments, a hydrotherapy pool, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. A Tata Harper facial is a must!The Lanesborough Grill
An exquisite dining experience awaits with Michelin-starred cuisine. The beautiful glass-domed setting with Wedgewood-adorned walls adds to the ambiance.The Bridgerton Afternoon Tea Service
The menu plays off the families featured in the coveted Netflix show with beautifully styled tea sandwiches, scones, and pastries.Snap a shot with Lilibet
Lilibet, the stunning Siberian Forest “Kitty in Residence” since 2019, named as per the nickname of Queen Elizabeth. A small team of cat-loving colleagues, known as the Cat Committee look after Lilibet as she holds court throughout the hotel.
The hotel boasts 93 lavish rooms and suites, each equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a blend of classic elegance and contemporary comforts. The Lanesborough is renowned for its opulent and meticulously designed suites, providing 24-hour butler service to cater to the personalized needs of every guest. The Royal Suite is the most prestigious, spanning an entire floor offering seven bedrooms, a grand living room, dining room, study, kitchen, and multiple bathrooms. The Royal Suite also offers stunning views of Hyde Park and includes a chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce.
Next stop, The Newt in Somerset, a luxurious country estate that seamlessly blends history, natural beauty, and modern elegance. Known for its stunning gardens, world-class amenities, and rich historical heritage this stunning estate offers an immersive experience that combines the charm of the English countryside with unparalleled luxury. Hospitality at The Newt is distinguished by its genuine, warm nature and personalized approach which makes guests feel at home upon arrival.
The history of The Newt dates back to the 17th century when the estate was first developed. Originally known as Hadspen House, the property has long been associated with English nobility and has been home to several prominent families over the centuries, each of whom left their mark on the estate. In the early 2000’s, the estate underwent a major transformation under the ownership of Karen Roos and her husband, Koos Bekker, a South African entrepreneur. The couple, who are passionate about design and horticulture, embarked on an ambitious project to meticulously restore and reimagine the estate into a modern country retreat while maintaining the integrity of the original structure. Known for her background in design and publishing, the interior design was led by Karen, having been the former editor of Elle Decor South Africa. Hadspen House, the main building, features Georgian architecture with high ceilings, large sash windows, and intricate moldings. Roos’ design approach blends classic English country house aesthetics with natural materials, muted color palettes, and a mix of antique and contemporary furnishings.
One of the most coveted rooms at The Newt in Somerset is the Stable Yard Suite located in the converted stable block offer stunning views over the gardens and surrounding countryside. The thoughtful touches, such as handmade linens, bespoke furniture, and carefully curated amenities, and clawfoot tub elevate the experience. For a different ultimate indulgence, buggy past the grazing sheep herd to the Farmyard Barn Rooms set in a former dairy farm with a private swimming pool, restaurant, and cozy fireside bar.
The expansive renovation of The Newt extends beyond the house itself, inspired by the local landscape and history. The glorious gardens were originally designed by Penelope Hobhouse and further developed by Karen Roos and Koos Bekker, with the assistance of French garden designer Patrice Taravella. Drawing visitors from around the globe, The Newt offers a series of immersive and interactive experiences featuring a walled garden, an apple orchard, a cascade of ponds, and a kitchen garden. There is also a color themed Victorian-style Parabola Garden planted with a collection of nearly 460 varieties of espaliered fruit trees, arranged in a Baroque maze. The Kitchen Garden supplies fresh produce for the estate’s Botanical Room and Garden Café restaurants, emphasizing the farm-to-table philosophy. The medicinal garden showcases a range of plants traditionally used for their healing properties, while the woodland and wildflower meadows are a delight for morning walks.
Two last tips! Be sure to visit the Cyder Press and Cellar to learn about the historic cider-making process in Somerset and enjoy tastings of their unique blends. Lastly, The Roman Villa Experience at The Newt is a fan favorite, home to a fascinating reconstruction of an ancient Roman Villa, providing insight into the area’s unique cultural history. The interactive exhibition includes artifacts and immersive displays that transport you back to Roman times and adds another historical dimension to your stay.
Enjoying an English holiday in the fall allows you to enjoy the last of the warm weather and make the most of outdoor activities as we transition into the new season. This sojourn allows for a blend of city thrills and rural relaxation, capturing the essence of two very diverse experiences within a short distance. Enjoy!
For More Details Visit: thenewtinsomerset.com and oetkercollection.com
