DOWN BY THE RIVER

Editor Claire Ridley was invited to The Great House in Sonning, part of the Coppa Club collection of hotels and restaurants, that resides on the river

This sanctuary nestled in a peaceful location on the banks of the River Thames is ideal for honeymooners, and their four-legged friends and children are also welcome for those wanting to book a family-moon. The tranquil, back-to-nature bolthole, a former Elizabethan coaching inn has some famous neighbours – Hollywood movie star George Clooney and wife Amal live in this quaint village tucked away in the Berkshire countryside.

DO NOT DISTURB

There are 49 individually designed rooms and suites with The Coach House Apartment located in the courtyard being the hotel’s best offering for newlyweds which became my home-from-home for the night. It’s a quirky split-level suite with a separate TV room that doubles up as a second bedroom, perfect if it is a family-moon you’re after. A highlight for me was the large roll-top bath – I dived straight in!

A FOODIE HEAVEN

At the heart of this boutique hotel is the swish Coppa Club clubhouse. The brand is well-known for providing the very best elements of a café, bar, restaurant and lounge all combined into one setting with a private members club feel, without the fee. Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night nibbles with riverside views in the restaurant, bar and snug area decorated with contemporary comforts and vibrant pops of colour.

Those passionate about food will love the extensive menus including the all-day, weekend and non-gluten offerings plus grills, grazing plates and sourdough pizzas - a takeaway menu is also offered. Being practically vegan, I tucked into the mouth-watering Coppa burger made with a delicious plant-based patty and cheese served with skinny fries. Other highlights on the menu were the chalkstream trout and the 10oz rib British steak on the bone. The buckwheat and rye pancakes were the perfect way to start my day the following morning at breakfast.

WHAT’S NEW?

The latest addition are the cosy igloos perched outside the large impressive glass-covered terrace lining the garden leading to the river. The best seat in the house, they provide private dining all year round for up to eight people and there are even blankets provided for the chilly evenings.

MADE FOR ROMANCE

Memories can be made at this idyllic, award-winning wedding venue that’s licensed for up to 100 guests for the ceremony. The Coppa Club chefs have created a collection of wedding breakfast menus and the flexible event space can host up to 200 guests for the evening party. The wedding couple can arrive by boat and will receive a complimentary night in the River Suite, plus a unique code for their guests to book inline.

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BOOK IT: The Great House, Coppa Club offers a cosy double room from £85 per night. Deluxe doubles are available from £115 per night. www.greathouseatsonning.co.uk; 0118 969 2277. www.facebook.com/WeAreCoppaClub www.facebook.com/greathousesonning www.instagram.com/coppaclub www.instagram.com/the_great_house

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TOAST LOVE

SAY I DO WITH A VIEW

If you’re aspiring to the ultimate seaside wedding, look no further than Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott Hotel. Say I do with a stunning view overlooking one of the most beautiful coastlines in the UK. Perched on the edge of the clifftop, our beautiful outdoor wedding gazebo is nestled within our private garden area, whilst offering sweeping panoramic views. Whether it’s the most intimate wedding event, or one of grandeur and sparkle, our wedding packages are designed to suit your dream wedding vision. You can rest-assured that your wedding planning will be looked after by our team of experienced memory makers. Life is about sharing moments with your family and friends, so allow us to transform your wedding day into one that is magical and unforgettable!

Book your wedding by end March 2023 for 2023 and receive one of the following: sweet cart, ice cream bike or photo booth*.

Quote ‘Wedding Wishes’ on booking.

Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott Hotel 01202 557 702 bournemouth.events@marriotthotels.co.uk 105 St Michael’s Road, W Cliff Road Bournemouth BH2 5DU