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WELCOME Down Hall has always been more than just a hotel, there is always something to explore, taste or enjoy, which is one of the reasons we wanted to create this edition, so that everything we know and love about our beautiful hotel and surrounding area is at your fingertips. We bring to you a collection of inspiring articles to help you create a memorable and unforgettable experience during your time with us. From the rich and unique history of Down Hall, to an incredible, jam-packed events calendar, recipe inspiration, interview with our head chef, the list goes on‌ We are always posting on our social media channels and if you take a look it will prove evident that we have an array of fascinating events taking place, from foraging, to wine tasting, to themed afternoon teas, to a large-scale concert, we have something to delight and excite every guest. So, without further ado, we hope you enjoy reading our Down Hall Spring / Summer edition as much as we have enjoyed creating it.
To enquire about a bespoke hotel magazine for your property please call 01772 644 945 E. admin@bespokehotelmagazine.com www.bespokehotelmagazine.com
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Bespoke Hotel Magazine All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent from the publisher.
THE HOTEL Down Hall is located in Hatfield Heath, near Bishop’s Stortford on the Hertfordshire and Essex border, Down Hall is 45 minutes from central London and also ideally located near Stansted Airport. Dating back to 1322, the impressive Italianate mansion is a historic setting. The hotel’s luxury interiors, ornate ceilings and abundance of natural daylight make for an experience like no other. Take time to wander the 110 acres of surrounding woodland, parkland and landscaped gardens or sample our delicious, traditional English Afternoon Tea. Why not enjoy a leisurely dinner in the Dining Room, serving modern English cooking prepared with fresh ingredients from our very own vegetable garden? Relax the body, soothe the soul and lift the spirit during your stay at Down Hall in our luxury Eden Spa.
HISTORY OF DOWN HALL Down Hall, situated on the Hertfordshire/Essex border, is one of England’s longest-established country hotels. Located in Hatfield Heath, near Bishops Stortford, Down Hall has a history as rich as its luxurious interiors. The stately home itself dates back to 1540, before which it was the site of a monastery, founded in 1322. In its long and distinguished history, Down Hall has been home to artists, painters, lords and baronets, whose style and aesthetic spirit has rubbed off on the choice of décor today. All those European Grand Tours, so fashionable when the house was being transformed from its Tudor incarnation, have had an influence on the flamboyant Italianate style of the house. Of course, the best way to understand the rich past of Down Hall is to stay there. Each of the hotel’s 98 bedrooms has been individually designed to reflect the mix of style, elegance and history that give the Hall its unique character. The Feature Rooms have luxurious two- or four- poster beds and offer views of the magnificent landscaped gardens through gloriously large windows, fashionable in both Georgian design and the Italian style emulated by the architect, James Gibbs, when he remodelled the house in 1720. Despite Gibbs’ European influences, Down Hall remains a very British stately home. The Hall ‘did its bit’ during World War One as a convalescent home for wounded soldiers and, from 1932 to 1967, it became Downham School, a girls’ school whose alumni included Frances Shand-Kydd, the mother of Diana, Princess of Wales. The hotel opened its doors in 1986, giving discerning guests a taste of its now-famous Italian grandeur in the beautiful Hertfordshire countryside. Down Hall’s corner of that beautiful Hertfordshire countryside comprises 110 acres of woodland, parkland and landscaped gardens for visitors to explore. After all that walking, guests and visitors can take a traditional afternoon tea in either the historic lounge or Ibbetson’s tearoom, named after the family who owned Down Hall from 1794 to 1902. The more peckish explorer can enjoy a leisurely meal in The Dining Room restaurant, which serves the best of modern English cooking prepared with fresh ingredients from the hotel’s own vegetable garden. So whether you want to relax and soak up the Hall’s history and enjoy its opulent surroundings, or have a change of scene from the office for your meetings and team days, Down Hall can meet your needs. Down Hall is only 45 minutes from Central London and also within easy reach of London Stansted Airport in Essex, making it an ideal base for business trips, team-building events and conferences.
THE ROOMS Whether you are looking for a secluded romantic break in one of our luxury hotel rooms or a venue for your team building event or wedding, Down Hall can meet your needs. Our 98 bedrooms are all individually designed to reflect the grandeur, elegance and character of this historic property. All rooms are equipped with complimentary tea & coffee making facilities, iron and ironing board and a laptop sized safe. All bedrooms and public areas benefit from complimentary WiFi. Down Hall is a family friendly hotel and welcomes children of all ages; please discuss your individual requirements at the time of booking. Please note, the use of Eden Spa is not complimentary. Spa use and treatments must be pre-booked before arrival.
IT’S A DOG’S LIFE AT DOWN HALL
Our luxury four-star dog-friendly hotel set in the beautiful English countryside on our 110-acre estate makes this the perfect escape for you and your pooch and is ideal for a romantic secluded break with your hound in tow. Discerning canines will love the luxury interiors, ornate ceilings and abundance of natural daylight. The surrounding woodland, parkland and landscaped gardens are also a doggie’s dream – your pooch will have hours of fun exploring. After a day of doggie adventures, relax your body and soothe your soul in the hotel’s luxury Eden Spa whilst Fido sleeps off the day in your room.
Dine with Your Dog Down Hall has a variety of fabulous dining options. Enjoy a leisurely dinner in our Dining Room, a traditional afternoon tea in our Lounge or a lovely picnic can be prepared for you to enjoy within the grounds. We recommend stopping by Down Hall’s Cocktail Bar or Terrace Bar for an aperitif or a night cap! Pets can dine with you in the Anti-Lounge, Lounge, Terrace or if your furry friend prefers, they can relax in your room whilst you eat.
Our ‘It’s a Dog’s Life’ package Includes: Bed & breakfast in a West Wing room with direct access to our gardens £30 allowance per person for dinner A map of our grounds including walking routes and scoop bags A luxurious dog bed, water bowl and Scooby snacks From £209, based on two people sharing a West Wing double room Bookings are subject to our normal terms & conditions and must be guaranteed by credit/debit card. Maximum two pets per room. Please note, the use of Eden Spa is not complimentary. Spa use and treatments must be pre-booked before arrival.
Dogs of Down Hall An insight into Down Hall’s, ‘It’s a dog’s life’ package. By Vinnie Pom, @LV_Poms Situated just a 15-minute drive from Stansted Airport is Down Hall, which dates back to 1322. With its luxurious interiors and over 110 acres of land, I just knew Louis and I were going to have a wonderful weekend! After driving down one of the longest driveways I’ve ever seen, our ‘hoomans’ parked the car, and we just couldn’t wait to check out our fancy accommodation for the night! We left the bags in the boot and cruised towards the main entrance where of course we posed for a picture in front of this stunning, elaborate manor house (and allowed the fans to take a few pictures too!) We entered reception to the usual “awws”, and we quickly checked in before laying on our backs for some well-deserved belly-rubs from other
guests. The hoomans picked up the key cards (and the handles of our leads), and off we went - time to explore! We were staying in an Executive Room with direct access to the terrace and grounds through some patio doors. We knew it was going to be grand, but we didn’t realise it was going to be THIS grand! We zoomed in to the room, ran around and around, found our bed, our bowl and a special bag from Pets Pyjamas on our pillow. Our dads loved it too: massive bed, huge bathroom and some delicious fruit on the side. They opened the patio doors for us and bam – we were off zooming down the few steps on to the grass.
We spent ages running around the garden having so much fun. Bouncing through the lawns, over the giant game of chess and towards the fountain. Louis and the hoomans caught up with me and we posed for a few more pictures, before going back to the room so Dad could go and get the bags (Louis does NOT travel light!).
Once unpacked, we headed for the bar, everywhere was dog friendly, apart from the restaurants, which was of course amazing! Dad de-leashed us, and we jumped up on the snuggle chair with him, just by the fire. Dad went to the bar, and a really nice barman delivered their drinks, and a bowl of water for us. Dad said something about “an amazing Gin collection” and they sat back and started sipping some very snazzy looking cocktails. After all that running around the gardens, Louis and I took the opportunity for a little nap. Zzz. Our Dads stayed there sipping and snacking for hours! It was soon to be dinner time… We had a quick chomp on some snacks, whilst the hoomans enjoyed 3 courses of delicious food, and more gin… Louis and I had a little wonder around the room, being petted by nearly every passer-by. It was amazing. Oh, and every time we needed to do our business, we didn’t have to go far – there were double-doors in the Lounge and the next room leading to the grounds. Phew! All of us fed and watered, we zoomed back to our room, ready for lights out and snoozes before another day of fun!
Next morning, we jumped out of bed, and ran around a little bit whilst the hoomans had a full English breakfast and a continental breakfast delivered by room service. Louis tried to get some, but got caught, so we stuck to our kibble…
After breakfast, time for fun – the hoomans picked up the handy map of walks – and off we went. We opted for a medium walk through the forest – safe to be off lead – we zoomed ahead. Running in and out of the trees, through a field, through some more trees and back toward the house. The walk took about an hour and was about 2 miles – the hoomans were obviously walking slowly, enjoying the sights. Oh, and we stopped for a few pics (my fluff was on point that day!).
Back at the hotel, we ran straight back to the Lounge, jumped on the snuggle chair and got ready to order some water. Then we noticed another table had already been set – for 2 hoomans for afternoon tea. Yep, it was for our hoomans… We moved table and got comfy while they enjoyed some amazing sandwiches, scones, cakes and teas. Smelt delicious! Some more cuddles and belly rubs from other guests, and with our hoomans looking plumper than ever, our time at Down Hall was nearing to an end. We went back to the room, packed up our stuff and then went to check out, where we met Phil, the Guest Relations Manager. He told us about his Alsatian – sounds like a lovely fur-friend – before we checked out, said our goodbyes and headed home. Down Hall is the pawfect place for you and your hoomans – they have a restaurant, bar, afternoon tea, room service, spa, woodland walks, tennis courts, a very plush terrace (the spa was about the only place we weren’t allowed, but that’s fine – Louis hates a bath!), and some of the best customer service we’ve ever experienced. There’s no need to wait until you’re flying from Stansted, it’s a mere 45 minutes from Central London too – what are you waiting for? Escape to the country @LV_POMS style
FOOD & DRINK At Down Hall we believe that freshness and quality is essential, which is why we aim to source as much of our fruit and vegetables from our very own vegetable garden. . Our seasonally changing, contemporary British menu and Sunday lunch menu have guests returning to our restaurant time and time again. Our Head Chef would like to share what he loves most about our vegetable garden and even includes two delicious recipes for you to try at home!
Interview with Head chef, Chris Jones Where do you get your inspiration from for your recipes? Our menus are inspired by what is on our doorstep, from either our kitchen garden or local suppliers. The fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs are a pleasure to work with and having the freshest ingredients is a huge benefit. I find taking a walk through the garden when everything is in bloom is great for inspiration, as is the morning chat with our local butcher!
What do you like about using fresh produce from the vegetable garden? It’s not often chefs get to work with something so close to the kitchen, all of us appreciate the hard work that the gardeners put in. It is a lovely time in the early morning or afternoon to have a walk around and see what is at its best. Having an abundance of fresh produce keeps the team on their toes, there’s plenty of opportunity for them to get creative with whatever is best that day.
What is your favourite dish to cook? Here I have put a vibrant rhubarb & custard dish, rhubarb is something that is plentiful for a long period through the year.
Rhubarb & Custard tart dessert Ingredients
Sweet pastry 225g plain flour 110g unsalted butter 80g caster sugar 1 egg
Method Pastry
Cream together the butter and sugar very lightly, do not overmix, this will add too much air. Beat egg, gradually pour into sugar. Add the flour and mix until you have a combined dough. Wrap in cling film, rest in the fridge for 30 minutes before rolling. Once rested, roll your pastry onto a lightly floured surface to 3mm thickness and put into a 28cm flan case. Use excess pastry to push into the corner so the pastry is flush with the mould. Line the inside of the pastry with thick catering grade cling film, ensuring to use enough to go over the outside of the tart shell, use rice to fill the lined tart shell. Bake blind at 170°C for about 10 minutes or until the pastry is starting to turn golden brown. Remove the rice, and allow to cool. Turn the oven down to 100°C ready to cook your tart once filled.
Custard
9 eggs 80g caster sugar 450ml double cream Bring the cream to the boil. Whisk yolks & sugar together, add the cream and mix well. Pass the mixture through a fine sieve into a jug. Place the pastry case in the oven, pour the custard mix to the brim. Bake for 40 minutes or until the custard appears set.
Rhubarb
1kg rhubarb 100g sugar 100ml grenadine For the rhubarb puree, peel 500g rhubarb, cut and cook down with half the sugar and grenadine. Once soft put in a food processor and puree for 10 minutes. With the other half of the rhubarb peel and cut on an angle and braise for 3 minutes in the rest of sugar and grenadine this should be still quite firm to touch and leave to chill in the syrup.
Citrus Cured Trout Citrus cure
2 oranges, zested 2 lemons, zested 2 cardamom pods 200g Maldon sea salt 200g sugar
Method
Blitz together all the ingredients, spread half onto a large tray Place the trout on top and cover with the remaining salt Cover with cling film, refrigerate 8 hours The fish should feel firm to the touch, if not return to fridge for a further two hours Wash off cure in still water, dry in a clean cloth.
Fennel & apple dressing 200ml fennel juice 200ml apple juice
Method Reduce freshly juiced apple liquid by half, add fennel juice. Bring to the boil, add 50g of caster and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Baby beets 2 baby golden beetroot 2 baby purple beetroot 2tsp salt 2tbsp sugar 5 sprigs of thyme 2 garlic cloves 4 cloves 6 juniper berries
Method Bring all ingredients up to the boil, simmer for ten minutes, add the beetroot, cook for twenty minutes. Prick with a knife to see if tender. Remove from the liquid to cool. Once cooled use a clean cloth to peel the skin.
WINE Interview with Mark Soudah from Grape Passions
You have been working with Down Hall for seven years, what do you most enjoy about working with this hotel? Ultimately, it’s the staff at the hotel that make for a great experience and the team at Down Hall are always enthusiastic to try something new and exciting in the world of wine which makes for an interesting and dynamic wine list.
Take the new Organic wine, Jonty’s Ducks from South Africa where ducks forage on snails and other pests in the vineyard, eliminating the need to control pests by chemical means. The wines are pretty amazing too!
Are there any specific wines that you like to get hold of for Down Hall?
A Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is always a popular choice, and the WEKA Sauvignon Blanc is a firm favourite at Down Hall. It’s a premium zesty wine named after the unique Weka bird native to New Zealand, which is found around our vineyards.
What is your favourite wine that Down Hall stocks and why?
That’s a difficult question to answer as all our wines are so carefully chosen, however one of my firm favourites is the Rogues & Rascals Shiraz from the cool area of Great Southern in Western Australia. Its silky smooth with notes of black pepper and spice, and is deliciously easy drinking in style.
From your experience, what makes a great wine?
Ultimately, great wine starts with great quality grapes and skilful winemaking to retain the intrinsic quality of the wine into the bottle. One winemaker had an alternative answer and said the test for a great wine is an empty bottle!
We have a dessert recipe from our head chef on the previous page, which is a Rhubarb, Custard tart. What wine would you recommend pairing with a dessert like this? An aged Tawney Port, or a Recioto di Soave from our new producer, Canoso, would go superbly well.
COCKTAILS AT DOWNHALL Message from Erhan our Food and Beverage Manager Where do you get your inspiration from for your cocktails?
“Everywhere, I find inspiration from seasonal produce, Culinary Magazines, Pinterest and from sharing ideas with others; I also like to explore as many bars as possible wherever I go in the world. I think it is great to get inspiration from all different kinds of places, whether it’s small touches that make a drink special or a drink itself that really stands out, I love to find magic in new places and share that experience with others”.
What is your favourite cocktail and why?
“The Negroni cocktail is definitely one of my strong favourites. The Negroni is a popular Italian cocktail, made of one-part gin, one-part vermouth rosso, and one-part Campari and garnished with orange peel. It is considered an aperitif and can also be known and referred to as the ‘Red Martini’. The Negroni in my eyes is the perfect classic cocktail, it’s perfectly balanced and tastes great: a little bit sweet, a little bit bitter, and very boozy!”
What cocktail do you most enjoy making?
“My favourite cocktails to make are martinis, they are so simple and elegant, yet their taste is magnificent! My favourite martini to make at the moment is the Espresso Martini. The smell of an Espresso Martini is wonderful, I love coffee, so combining this with alcohol, for me is a great choice. I also enjoy making sure I get the perfect amount of foam on top of the martini, as this is a very important component of the Espresso Martini”.
What garnishes do you use?
“I use all different garnishes according to the cocktail I am making. Some of the garnishes we love to use are; Thyme, rosemary, orange peel, mint, nutmeg, raspberries, strawberries, and pineapple. If I am making the ‘Clover Club’ for example, raspberries are the main garnish. If we are making a ‘Bees Knees’ we would use orange peel and rosemary.”
What garnishes pair well with Gin based cocktails?
“There are many garnishes that pair well with Gin based cocktails. Some of our favourite garnishes to pair with Gin are; pink pepper, ginger, grapefruit and raspberries. We have an extensive gin collection at Down Hall and now have 47 different varieties of gin! Why not come and try one at our cocktail bar located next to the lounge!”
ESPRESSO MARTINI Ingredients 35ml Koniks Tail Vodka 25ml Kahlua 10ml Crème de Cacao Single shot of espresso
Glass Coupe Method Pour the vodka, coffee liqueur and espresso into a cocktail shaker. Fill the martini glass with ice to chill and then fill the cocktail shaker with ice as well. Put the other half of the shaker on top and give it a good tap to lock it in, then shake the cocktail shaker vigorously. You want the ice to smash up while chilling the liquid down; this is what creates the frothy top. Once shaken, tap the side of the shaker to break the vacuum seal. Empty the ice out of the Martini glass, then place the strainer on top of the shaker and pour the contents through a sieve directly into the glass. Using the strainer and the sieve helps create a rich, smooth, froth, which is most definitely needed for an Espresso Martini.
Garnish
Garnish with three coffee beans
CLOVER CLUB Ingredients 35ml Pinkster Gin 20ml Edinburgh’s Gin Raspberry liquor 25ml Lemon juice 20ml Sugar Syrup 25ml Egg White Syrup
Glass Coupe Method Fill the Coupe glass with ice to chill and then fill the cocktail shaker with ice as well. Add all of the ingredients into the cocktail shaker with ice and shake for 8 seconds. Once shaken, tap the side of the shaker to break the vacuum seal. Empty the ice out of the glass, then strain the cocktail into the chilled Coupe glass and enjoy!
Garnish
Garnish 3 speared raspberries on top
THINGS TO DO
EDEN SPA Eden Spa creates the perfect setting for you to relax your mind, body and soul. Our treatment rooms are made up of three single rooms and one double room for couple’s treatments. We have chosen ESPA natural skin and spa products for luxury facials and body treatments whilst Jessica Nails will be used for manicures and pedicures; a world leading brand of nail polish and nail care products. MII cosmetics will be used for makeovers and special occasions make up. At Eden Spa we offer a huge range of luxury ESPA body treatments, massages and facials, Jessica manicures and pedicures, waxing and treatments for men. Please note, there is a £20 fee for 2 hours access to the wet spa facilities and reservations are essential. We recommend treatments and spa access be reserved in advance, however, in room treatments and late availability can be checked by dialling 2605 from your room. Opening times: Monday – Sunday 10:00am – 8:00pm
WOODLAND WALK Set in 110 acres of park and woodland, Down Hall is the perfect destination for a relaxing break. Discover the hidden corners of the Down Hall estate with one of our walking maps, and take a leisurely stroll through our beautiful woodland trails.
Have a look at our walking map and trails on the next page, or take one from your room!
LEISURE Discover the hidden corners of the Down Hall estate with one of our walking maps, play a game of tennis or simply watch the world go by whilst enjoying Afternoon Tea in our historic lounge. For reviving and relaxing beauty treatments, visit our luxury, Eden Spa beauty treatment rooms. Choose a treatment from our extensive beauty menu and let our therapists look after you in the relaxing surroundings of the Eden treatment rooms. For our more active guests, enjoy a work out in our state-of-the-art gymnasium, featuring the latest gym equipment from leading supplier Technogym. The gym includes running machines, cross trainers, exercise bicycles, a rowing machine, free weights plus exercise balls and mats. Following your work out, relax and revive yourself in the adjoining sauna and steam room facility. In addition to this, there are 2 hard court tennis courts, perfect for either a leisurely game or an intense 5-set match or try out your skills with our Giant Chess set or a game of good oldfashioned croquet. After a full day of enjoying everything Down Hall has to offer, relax with a cocktail in our bar before sitting down for dinner in our award-winning Dining Room Restaurant. You will be spoilt for choice with our daily changing menu and extensive wine list. Please note, the use of Eden Spa is not complimentary. Spa use and treatments must be prebooked before arrival.
AFTERNOON TEA We have a variety of themed Afternoon Teas available happening throughout the year, some of these include; March – Floral Afternoon Tea April – Chocolate Afternoon Tea May – Traditional Afternoon Tea June – Gin Afternoon Tea July – French Patisserie Afternoon Tea August – Allotment Afternoon Tea September – PMD Tea tasting Afternoon Tea October – Halloween Themed Afternoon Tea December – Festive Afternoon Tea At Down Hall, we serve Afternoon Tea daily between 1pm and 5.30pm, as all our Afternoon Teas are freshly made to order, reservations are required.
WEDDINGS AND EVENT FLORIST
Based near Sawbridgeworth and serving Essex and Hertfordshire, I specialise in providing stunning bridal flowers for weddings; from a simple buttonhole to show stopping bride, bridesmaid & flower girl bouquets, elaborate church, civil ceremony venue and reception arrangements.
T: 07903 134439 W: www.vickisfloraldesigns.co.uk E: info@vickisfloraldesigns.co.uk The Foaling Stable Unit 3, Crumps Farm, West Road, Sawbridgeworth, CM210LJ
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Meetings & Events With the option to choose between the ornate historic function rooms within the Main House, or the West Wing’s newly refurbished contemporary meeting space, the 13 meeting spaces at Down Hall offer something for every occasion.
Why organise an event at Down Hall? Location - - Less than an hour from central London or Cambridge, and easily commutable from London Heathrow, Luton or Stansted airports. History – Our estate dates from 1320 and the hotel offers beautiful meeting space within the historic main house. Modern Touches – Our newly refurbished West Wing event space features contemporary meeting space with the latest technology. Outdoor Space – With over 100 acres of land our grounds are the perfect option for teambuilding, incentives or simply a relaxing walk. Exclusivity – The West Wing has its own private entrance through stunning landscaped gardens, and once inside the building the design means you truly have an area to call your own, alternatively we regularly hire the entire estate for private events.
Meeting Room Capacity
EVENTCALENDAR 2019 January
Wedding Open Day
February
Luxury Valentine’s Day packages
March
Detox, Yoga, Spa Retreat Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea special Mother’s Day Sunday Lunch
April
Children’s Easter activity packages Petting zoo Easter Sunday Lunch Chocolate Themed Afternoon Tea
May
Cinco De Mayo
June
15 & 16 - Live at Down Hall Gin inspired Afternoon Tea Wedding Open Day
July
Children’s tennis lessons with ex tennis professional Jazz Sunday’s French Patisserie Afternoon Tea Champagne gourmet dinner
August
Allotment Afternoon Tea Foraging
September
PMD tea tasting
October
Halloween themed Afternoon tea
November
Bonfire, Fireworks Night
December
Festive themed Afternoon Tea Down Hall Pantomime Down Hall Festive Party Nights Down Hall Residential Christmas stay Down Hall Christmas Lunch Down Hall Boxing Day Lunch New Year’s Eve Down Hall New Year’s Day Lunch
LIVE AT DOWN HALL
JOOLS HOLLAND & his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra
SATURDAY 15th JUNE 2019
SUNDAY 16th JUNE 2019 Live at Down Hall will bring two iconic artists to the beautiful Essex countryside for a weekend of unforgettable live music
LIVE
AT DOWN HALL
Live at Down Hall 2019 will bring two iconic artists to the beautiful Essex countryside for a weekend of unforgettable live music, set within the stunning grounds of Down Hall. Our intimate surroundings will give the lucky few a chance to appreciate either artist in a unique setting. Both Saturday and Sunday’s acts will present the chance to relax in the grounds, enjoy a quintessentially British afternoon tea, or simply grab some fantastic food prepared by our talented kitchen team alongside a cocktail before things get started. For an even more exclusive experience why not combine the music with an unforgettable stay and dinner at Down Hall.
www.liveatdownhall.co.uk - email: info@downhall.co.uk
JOOLS HOLLAND BIOGRAPHY Jools Holland OBE DL was born Julian Miles Holland on 24th January 1958 in Blackheath, South East London. At the age of eight, he could play the piano fluently by ear, and by the time he reached his early teens he was proficient and confident enough to be appearing regularly in many of the pubs in South East London and the East End Docks. At the age of 15, Jools was introduced to Glenn Tilbrook and Chris Difford; together they formed Squeeze, and shortly afterwards they were joined by Gilson Lavis (who had already played with, among others, B.B. King, Chuck Berry, and Max Wall) – who still drums with Jools. Up The Junction and Cool For Cats gave Squeeze meteoric success and their popularity rapidly extended to America, where their tour included performances at New York’s Madison Square Garden. In 1987, Jools formed The Jools Holland Big Band – comprising himself and Gilson Lavis. This has gradually metamorphosed into the current 19-piece Jools Holland and His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, which consists of pianist, organist, drummer, three female vocals, guitar, bass guitar, two tenor saxophones, two alto saxophones, baritone saxophone, three trumpets, and three trombones. As well as formidable live performances, Jools has maintained a prolific recording career since signing to Warner Music in 1996, which includes the multimillion selling Jools Holland and Friends series. Notable ‘friends’ have included Sting, Chrissie Hynde, George Harrison, Norah Jones, Eric Clapton, David Gilmour, Bono, Joe Strummer, KT Tunstall, Robert Plant, Smokey Robinson, Sugababes, Ringo Starr, Peter Gabriel, Solomon Burke, and many more.
LIVE
AT DOWN HALL
www.liveatdownhall.co.uk - email: info@downhall.co.uk
JAMES MORRISON BIOGRAPHY When James Morrison broke onto the scene as a soulful singer-songwriter in 2006 even he couldn’t have predicted that he would become the template that allowed a wave of likeminded musicians to enter the field. Now, almost ten years on, Sam Smith, Ed Sheeran, George Ezra and James Bay are all crowding the charts, following the same format; one guy with a great, soulful voice and a guitar. They’ve all cited him as an influence but does Morrison take some credit for paving the way? “I don’t really see it like that, I was just lucky to be one of the first”. Despite his self-deprecation and humble nature, he really was the first to take that format and not only make it work but also became an overnight success story. Pop gems like ‘You Give Me Something’ from his first record ‘Undiscovered’, made him anything but and he won the 2007 BRIT Award for Best Male when he was still just 21 years old. He was also told by the veteran soul producer Jerry Wexler that his raspy, gravelly voice, the product of a childhood illness, had its “own thumbprint” and was so distinctive that “once heard, never forgotten”. But in spite of his phenomenal success, the singer-songwriter from Rugby, Warwickshire has never really been able to appreciate how well he’s done. He has a tendency to depression, although he strives to ignore it. “Most of the time I am upbeat and positive but making [this] album has tormented me.” He says of his 2015 album ‘Higher Than Here’. Now, in 2018, Morrison has made a brand-new album that is his most honest and powerful set of songs yet. To be released in 2019, the album explores his relationship, being a father and his family, as well as his experiences with dark times and light. Recorded at British Grove and Metrophonic Studios and produced by Mark Taylor (Lady Gaga, Nelly Furtado, Kylie Minogue), the album sees the return of James Morrison to his soulful best.
LIVE
AT DOWN HALL
www.liveatdownhall.co.uk - email: info@downhall.co.uk
TICKETS Set within the stunning grounds of Down Hall, our intimate surroundings will give the lucky few a chance to appreciate either artist in a unique setting.
GENERAL ADMISSION Our General Admission tickets give you access to the site from 6pm, just in time to grab a drink and something to eat before the music starts. Tickets – £75
PICNIC PACKAGES Why not enjoy an Afternoon Tea or Savoury picnic before the concert begins? This ticket not only includes one of our wonderful picnics, with a glass of Champagne or Pimms, but also early access to the event from 4pm. You will have two hours to soak up the atmosphere before the entertainment begins! Tickets – £110
VIP EXPERIENCE Our VIP Packages add those extra touches to make the event an even more memorable experience. Starting the evening off with some fantastic food within the luxurious surrounding of Down Hall Hotel, followed by a stroll across to our VIP area to enjoy the best view of the performance.
Day VIP ticket experience Tickets – £200
Ultimate overnight VIP experience Tickets – From £690 for two
We have the perfect selection of food available, choose from American, Mexican or Italian, we’re sure to have something that will excite your taste buds, all prepared by our very own talented Chefs.
ITALIAN- PIZZA Margarita – Mozzarella, cheddar cheese & oregano Pepperoni – Spicy cured sausage Vegetarian Option – Roasted peppers, mushroom, red onion
AMERICAN – BBQ Rarebreed Beef Burger – brioche bun, caramelised onion, lettuce Hot Dog – sautéed onion, American mustard Vegetarian Option – Veggie burger, caramelised onion, lettuce
MEXICAN CUISINE Burrito’s Chilli Nacho’s Vegetarian Option – Quorn burrito Vegetarian Option – Nacho’s
Whether yours is a gin, a glass of Champagne, a lager, a cocktail or a just a soft drink, we will have it all. With a bar open throughout the event, you certainly won’t be thirsty. A full bar service will be available in addition to our partners on the following page.
Relax at Live at Down Hall with our wonderful ESPA Spa therapy tents. What better way to unwind than with an outdoor massage, surrounded by the beautiful countryside. We have chosen ESPA natural skin and spa products for luxury facials and body treatments. Short 10- or 15-minute treatments will be available on the day of the event. Please note, the use of ESPA Spa therapy tents is not complimentary. Spa treatments are bookable on the day. Pop in to the reception tent to secure your treatment.
www.liveatdownhall.co.uk - email: info@downhall.co.uk
OUR PARTNERS
Say ‘I Do’ … AT DOWN HALL
Dating back to 1322, Down Hall has a wonderful array of rooms and suites to host the most intimate of ceremonies, luxury wedding breakfasts and stunning receptions, most with panoramic views over our beautiful gardens. Our Chef and his team have created the most delicious menus for your special occasion, using the freshest and finest ingredients either from our own vegetable garden or locally sourced produce, complimented by outstanding personal service from our staff. Down Hall’s dedicated Wedding Co-ordinators will guide you through your arrangements from the very first time you contact us, to the moment you take your vows. Every detail is taken care of and they come equipped with lists of recommended suppliers, creative ideas and years of valuable experience to help make your wedding day everything you could have ever dreamed of and more. We have a variety of wedding reception rooms and can cater for celebrations of different sizes, with our largest room holding 200 guests and our smallest, 2 guests with two members of staff acting as witnesses. Large windows provide a dramatic outlook onto our landscaped Essex gardens, creating the perfect backdrop for live music performances and dancing, following your first dinner with your friends and family as a married couple. For more information about planning your wedding day at Down Hall contact our Wedding Co-ordinators on 01279 731 441 or email weddings@downhall.co.uk. Located just 15 minutes from London Stansted Airport and 45 minutes from central London, Down Hall is ideal for wedding guests arriving from national or international locations.
Your Local Jaguar Land Rover Approved Service Centre SERVICE | REPAIR | WARRANTY | MOT’s | TYRES • We charge up to 30% less for a service* compared to your local Jaguar Land Rover retailer. • Our Master technicians are manufacturer-trained and only use genuine Jaguar Land Rover parts, equipment and diagnostic tools. • Peace of mind that a service at Taylor’s Jaguar Land Rover will maintain the manufacturers service history and value of your vehicle. • We have built a 28-year reputation on providing outstanding service; Our customers come back time and time again due to our care and attention to detail. • We also offer MOT’s, parts and accessories, Jaguar Land Rover service plans and a price match promise on ALL branded tyres. Call our friendly team today on 01371 876 422 – we offer pre-bookable appointments as well as a while-you-wait service.
With this advert receive £20 off a combined Service & MOT. Please quote ‘Offer20DH’ when making a booking to qualify for offer. Offer valid until 30.11.2019
*price comparison based on 4th year major Land Rover service and 3rd year minor service. Offer can not be use in conjunction with any other offer – terms and conditions apply.
Taylor’s Service Centres Chelmsford Road Industrial Estate, Great Dunmow, Essex, CM6 1HD 01371 876 422 | www.taylorsservicecentres.co.uk
Why Mauritius?
M
auritius is a tiny dot in the middle of the Indian Ocean, across from Madagascar and South Africa and is known for its gorgeous beaches, lagoons, reefs and spectacular volcanic backdrops.
It is a peaceful and safe island, with the friendliest of people, very easy to explore or just chill and relax on one of the many white sandy beaches. With direct flights from Gatwick and Heathrow and NO jetlag, Mauritius is the perfect all year round destination. Did you know that it is often cheaper to travel to Mauritius than the Mediterranean and the Caribbean? Mauritius has just two seasons. Summer extends from November to April and winter from June to September. What season is May and October I hear you ask? These are known as transition months.
For more information about our featured destinations, please contact us and one of our members of staff will be happy to assist you.
Mauritius
Photo Credit: Beachcomber Hotels & Resorts
There is plenty to do in Mauritius: •
Port Louis, capital of Mauritius for shops, restaurants and even horse racing.
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Grand Baie is a seaside village and is the place to be for lively bars and restaurants, as well as handicraft shops and stalls.
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Black River Gorge for lakes, waterfalls, horse riding and trekking.
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La Vanille Nature Park is a great place for family where palm trees and giant bamboo provide shade to hundreds of Nile crocodiles. Here you will also find a huge herd of Aldabra giant tortoises.
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Casela World of Adventures is also a fun place for the family. A scenic nature park with lush forest and breath-taking gorges where you can take part in safari quad biking or go canyoning. A thrilling day for all.
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Vallee de Colors you’ll find 23 colours of the volcanic ashes ranging from shades of red, brown, green, grey, blue and yellow.
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Water sports are plentiful and for some hotels, such as Beachcombers, is included in the price of your holiday.
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Sun set cruises – the most amazing sunset with the sun setting on the west. Remember West is Best.
01279 797189
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Sea karting.
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Visit the rum distillery. THE most smooth and flavoursome rum I’ve ever tasted!
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Diving in Mauritius is almost exclusively reefs as the island is virtually surrounded by coral and has over 100 sites to choose from. Depths of 23ft to 147ft and with water temperature bath-like most of the year. The best time to dive in Mauritius is between November and May.
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Finally, and the most popular, swimming with wild dolphins. Yes, you actually jump in the sea with a pod of wild dolphins.
Dining: When it comes to food, cuisine to suit all dietary requirements. Resorts on this island are very good at catering for vegetarians, allergies, food intolerances. And, at Beachcomber, we arrange for the chef to meet you on arrival to discuss your requirements.
Accommodation: Whether you desire a romantic holiday/honeymoon for 2 in an adult only hotel, a family resort with activities to entertain all ages or a group of friends and/or family in a villa with private pool, Mauritius has it all.
norma@yourperfecttravel.co.uk
www.yourperfecttravel
DIRECTORY Dear Guest, Welcome to Down Hall, where we strive to achieve high standards and always aim to exceed your expectations. Our team have been trained to offer a warm and friendly welcome and will endeavour to make your stay with us, an enjoyable one. Now you are here you can relax and enjoy a few of the facilities we have to offer at Down Hall. If there is any other information you require please contact a member of our reception team who will be delighted to help.
Reception – ‘0’ Eden Spa Opening Hours Monday –Sunday 10:00 -20:00 Please Dial 2605 from your telephone to book a treatment and for other information regarding the wet spa.
The Dining Room Opening hours Breakfast is served between 07:00 – 09:30 Monday – Friday & 08:00 -10:30 Saturday & Sunday Lunch is served on a Sunday from 12:30 -15:00 (Please call reception to book a table by dialling ‘0’ from the telephone) Dinner is served daily in the grill room from 18:30 -21:30 Sunday - Thursday, 18:30- 22:00 Friday & Saturday (Please call reception to book a table by dialling ‘0’ from the telephone)
Cocktail Bar Opening hour 10:30-23:00, we operate a 24-hour service to our guests should you require a drink after 23:00 hours our night duty manager is available.
Leisure Facilities We offer complimentary use of our Hotels Gym, Steam room and Sauna, please complete the hotels terms and condition of use at reception and obtain a code for the door. Opening hours Monday – Sunday 06:00 -22:00
Ground Facilities Tennis Court – Please book at reception we can also supply rackets and balls. Children’s play area – at end of West Wing Outdoor Chess – next to children’s play area 110 acres of woodland walk ways, see map in room Outdoor games - croquet, French Boules.
