The Iconic Tonic | Spring 2021

Tonic

ICONIC

TH E

SPRING/SUMMER 2021

TWO TOP TROPHIES FOR LONDON’S

NEWEST ADDITION…

The Mayfair Townhouse has made its presence known in London and across the world, making it onto Travel + Leisure’s ‘It List 2021’ and Condé Nast Traveller’s 2021 Hot List in its first 6 months!

T H E A PA RT M E N T S B Y

MAKE UP

11 CADOGAN GARDENS

FOR LOST PLANS

Introducing the new arrivals to Cadogan Gardens, taking luxurious city escapes to a whole new level.

This year is all about the wandermust list. Let the inspiration begin!

Your WA N D E R M U S T C H E W TO N G L E N

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CLIVEDEN HOUSE

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LIST

starts here

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| T H E M AY FA I R T O W N H O U S E

welcome Your Bucket List Starts Here

Pg 4 - 5

Are you feeling ‘wandermust’? We’re not surprised! After spending over a year away from friends and family, it’s time to make up for lost plans and re-write your bucket list.

Think Oscar Wilde Meets Alice in Wonderland

Pg 6 - 9

Introducing The Mayfair Townhouse, our newest arrival to the Iconic collection.

Find out all there is to know about our eccentric city cousin in marvellous Mayfair.

Little London

Pg 10 - 11

Chelsea, the home of luxury in the city of London. This unassuming borough has so much to offer when it comes to tranquillity, character and luxurious accommodation.

Allow us to set the scene.

The Bubble is Growing

Pg 12 - 13

A city break has taken on a whole new meaning with the arrival of The Apartments by 11 Cadogan Gardens.

The Great Outdoors

Pg 14 - 15

Take to the great outdoors for some escapism this season. Discover the landscape of the Cotswolds along with Cliveden’s glorious grounds, plus some tips to mark World Bee Day from Chewton Glen.

...And When the Great Outdoors Meets Great Food

Pg 16

2020 was all about dining ‘aldesko’ and at home alone. 2021 is all about getting outside, catching up with friends and family, and enjoying some amazing alfresco feasts.

New Faces for Our London Hotels

Pg 17

A lot has changed since our last newsletter. It’s time for new arrivals and delicious new recipes.

Big Adventures for Our Little Guests

Pg 18 - 19

Explore beyond our hotels with the family. Bring your little guests with big imaginations!

Love Can’t Wait

Pg 20 - 22

It’s been an emotional year for the industry, yet even 2020 couldn’t stop love!

Discover the beautiful real wedding story of an autumnal day in October.

Retreat Yourself

Pg 23

Out with the old and in with the new, just in time for The Spa at Chewton Glen’s 30th anniversary.

Mixing Business with Pleasure

Pg 24

From the rise of workations to innovative ways to keep engaging with your team and rewarding hard work.

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Recommends ICONIC

The Duchess-Countess and her Cliveden mistress

‘A scintillating story... superbly told’ The Times Catherine Ostler, former Editor-in-Chief of Tatler, Vice-Chairman and co-founder of Cliveden Literary Festival, has written a story that takes the reader into the Cliveden set of the eighteenth century: a biography of a society adventuress who beguiled King George II, shocked Georgian England and inspired Thackeray’s Becky Sharp. Elizabeth Chudleigh was the longest-serving maid-of-honour to mistress of Cliveden Princess Augusta, wife of Frederick, Prince of Wales. She was also sensationally tried for bigamy in 1776. Her early hasty marriage to a naval officer – which she attempted to conceal when she married a duke – was exposed in front of four thousand people at Westminster Hall. There it transpired that she was the Duchess of Kingston and the Countess of Bristol at the same time, a verdict that did not deter her from winning over the crowned heads of Europe on her subsequent Grand Tour.

‘A rollicking read..[Ostler] tells Elizabeth’s story with admirable style and gusto’

The Sunday Times

The Duchess Countess The Woman Who Scandalised a Nation by Catherine Ostler is published by Simon & Schuster £25; available at independent bookshops, Waterstones and Amazon.

.’ in g in p ip h ‘c r o f s k n Tha Invisible Chips

A P O RT I O N W I T H P R O M I S E Fresh on the menu and with an impactful message, we’re delighted to become stockists of Invisible Chips, supporting those working in hospitality whose livelihoods are disappearing. As our chosen charity of 2021, Hospitality Action has launched a superb campaign to help raise significant funds for the industry, assisting those who need it the most.

From skinny fries to triple-cooked, we promise this side is 0% fat, yet 100% for charity.

To contribute towards this incredible campaign simply purchase a portion today via invisiblechips.org.uk or add to your bill when dining at one

invisiblechips.org.uk

of our restaurants this season. To find out more about Hospitality Action and the Invisible Chips campaign, speak to a member of the team today.

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Bucket List YO U R

S T A RT S H E R E …

Our Iconic family offers everything you need, want and dream of.

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t

Picture this: a Negroni to the side of you, the sun beaming down on your skin and the faint sound of chatter, laughter and songbirds.

You could be anywhere in the world, but you’re here with us.

After spending over a year indoors the wants and needs in our lives have grown. The adventures missed, the experiences lost and the plans cancelled have given us the drive to make up for it all in a big way. From now on it’s all about the bucket list. It’s about ticking off things you’ve always wanted to do, or perhaps things you never knew you would want to do!

Where land meets sea..

For opulence and exploring...

C H E W TO N G L E N

CLIVEDEN HOUSE

lost plans. From belated birthdays, reunions

With 130 acres of grounds to explore, miles

With almost 400 acres of historical,

with friends, special staycations with family

and miles of sandy beaches, superb leisure

glorious National Trust grounds to admire,

to the much needed celebrations of

facilities, a cookery school, two restaurants

two on-site restaurants, a heavenly spa and

anniversaries, university graduations, GCSE

and so much more. Perhaps you need to

private boat hire, begin your summer in

stay a little longer to explore all this place

style at Cliveden.

The global events of late resulted in too many

results and more, make our place your home this year.

has to offer? www.chewtonglen.com

www.clivedenhouse.co.uk

Adventure for Days...

Feel Dandy in the City...

Your City Bubble...

T H E LYG O N A R M S For those seeking wide open spaces, a

T H E M AY F A I R TOWNHOUSE

11 CADOGAN GARDENS

chance of exploration, amazing shopping

Mayfair is the most expensive square on the

Enjoy a city retreat, yes, retreat in the city!

on Broadway high street, and plenty of

Monopoly board; it’s no wonder the

From the new luxurious apartments to cosy

opportunity to chill out with the whole

borough is renowned for luxury and excess,

corners within the hotel, perfectly placed

family (doggos included!), The Lygon Arms

yet did you know there’s another layer to it

just steps from Sloane Square, 11 Cadogan

is the perfect choice for laid-back luxury

that will demand your attention?

Gardens provides an urban yet green and

this year.

Discover marvellous Mayfair this season!

tranquil bubble to savour the capital from.

www.lygonarmshotel.co.uk

www.themayfairtownhouse.com

www.11cadogangardens.com

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“ LONDON

T H E M AY F A I R T O W N H O U S E

THINK OSCAR WILDE

MEETS ALICE IN WONDERLAND

“

“

Walking into The Mayfair Townhouse feels like entering a jewellery box – mirrored ceilings, golden front desks and a shiny peacock sculpture in the lobby covered in 25,000 Swarovski crystals.

K AT H A R I N E S O H N , C O N D É N A S T T R AV E L L E R

Not even a global pandemic could stop our eccentric cousin from making an entrance back in December 2020.

The Mayfair Townhouse is the fifth hotel in our UK portfolio, bringing a new lifestyle product into one of London’s most distinguished neighbourhoods.

WHERE IT ALL BEGAN… Built in 1730, Half Moon Street was a colourful haunt for bachelors, bohemians and artistic types in Victorian London. Iconic fictional characters such as Oscar Wilde’s Algernon Moncreiff and P. G. Wodehouse’s Bertie Wooster

In fact, entering 2021 as a closed hotel hasn’t stopped the

resided here. Moments of this history and culture are

excitement brewing either. The Townhouse has made it

immersed throughout The Townhouse’s discreet address,

onto Travel + Leisure’s ‘It List 2021’ - a list comprising of

and quickly become the central pillars of design and

‘Editors’ Picks of the Best New Hotels in the World’ and

personality for this eclectic house.

Condé Nast Traveller’s 2021 Hot List in its first 6 months!

Committed to celebrating new arrivals displaying a sense

I F T H E S E WA L L S C O U L D TA L K …

of innovation, allows us to delve in deeper as to why

Dandy is the cornerstone theme and design language of

The Mayfair Townhouse should be on your travel list this

The Mayfair Townhouse, building on the historic

year and beyond…

connections with Oscar Wilde, Half Moon Street and

Without the traditions of a regular hotel, there is no room at The Townhouse that has not been thoughtfully curated.

The hotel boasts 15 townhouses, 7 of which are listed, and bridges the gap between ritzy high-end lavish hotels and

the dandy lifestyle associated with Mayfair. Capturing this playful spirit to create a new era of the Dandy, our interior designer, Goddard Littlefair, helmed an authentic, quick-witted design of The Townhouse.

the corporate enterprise properties that currently populate

Telling the tale of Oscar Wilde’s world through an

Mayfair.

imaginative design, Goddard Littlefair have revived the

When you walk through the doors of the new Townhouse, expect the unexpected. Moments of surprise await around every corner of the fifteen connected Georgian buildings that line Half Moon Street, in what was once the setting for Oscar Wilde’s most famous play, The Importance of Being Earnest.

interiors of the Grade-II listed townhouses. The fox, the hotel’s mischievous motif, is woven throughout the hotel, from the art collection showcasing a series of fox images, to intricate design elements throughout the property, such as the door knockers on every room and suite.

Art plays a pivotal part of the hotel too, with Minda Dowling, a leading art specialist, curating unique and unusual pieces for the hotel to further bring each space to life. The hand-picked collection includes both known names and emerging artists to celebrate different creators of our time, all with their own wow factor. Take Clarita Brinkerhoff’s peacock sculpture for instance - the piece sits at 67 inches high and is sprinkled with an incredible 25,848 Swarovski crystals. He is now referred to as ‘Alfie’ after one of Wilde’s former lovers, having been affectionately named by the team upon opening.

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“

“Fine and dandy.

T H E F I N E R D E TA I L S …

The Dandy Bar epitomizes bespoke cocktails. Take The

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G E O R G I A S T E P H E N S , T H E S U N D AY T I M E S

Mayfair Dandy for example - an avant-garde take on the classic cocktail once enjoyed by hedonists of the area.

Flavours of whimsy combined with practicality define The Townhouse’s individually designed guest rooms and suites.

From the functional, cosy Cabin Rooms and the indoor-outdoor living-themed Garden Suites to the Signature Suites, every corner of each room is thoughtfully designed and appeals to the high expectations of todays’ discerning modern traveller.

Expect to find the highest quality amenities and little touches reflecting the hotel’s quick-witted personality, including minibar contents from local artisans.

Without a traditional restaurant at The Mayfair Townhouse, you’re invited to the Lower Ground Floor - a vibrant space located downstairs off the entrance lobby. Appealing to the nomad traveller, this is a place to work, explore and connect with the personalities of the time, and enjoy a meal at any time of the day.

A T Y O U R S E RV I C E Dianna Beran – Head Concierge Your key to unlocking London, there is no corner of the city Dianna doesn’t know. Bilingual in English and French, she has worked in some of the world’s top hotels from China to Switzerland.

Fun fact: She makes up the 3% of ladies in the UK & Commonwealth to receive the acclaimed label of Les Clefs d’Or.

EXCLUSIVE OFFER TA K E A L O O K A RO U N D …

A key benefit of The Mayfair Townhouse is its central London location. Synonymous with status, heritage and prestige, Mayfair offers both old and new world exclusivity.

On the corner is Piccadilly where Fortnum & Mason, The Royal Academy of Arts, and historic Burlington Arcade brush shoulders with Green Park and Hyde Park Corner.

From there, venture further into the heart of the most expensive property on the Monopoly board into an enclave of 200 restaurants, luxury shopping, art galleries and museums.

Listed buildings line neighbouring Bond Street’s world of prestigious shopping presented by world-class retailers.

It is also the base for auction houses Sotheby’s and Bonhams.

As a valued friend of Iconic Luxury Hotels, we would like to offer you a ‘Friends and Family’ rate from £195 per night, including breakfast, to celebrate The Mayfair Townhouse’s reopening. The offer applies for all bookings and stays until 31st October 2021*.

To book this introductory offer, please book online and add MAYFAIR into the promo box at the time of booking. *Please note this offer for The Mayfair Townhouse is exclusively available to book online and cannot be booked by calling or emailing our Reservations Team. Offer based on two people sharing our Classic Room at £195 or Deluxe Room at £245. Limited offer, subject to availability, cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers and is not commissionable.

Must be booked in advance. Must be booked and taken by 31st October 2021.

Introducing FEDERICO CIAMPI

General Manager of The Mayfair Townhouse

A business strategist with over 15 years’ experience, Federico has extensive management know-how amassed during his time spent working for a diverse range of luxury properties both in the UK and overseas.

His plans for The Townhouse? “To build a team that will deliver the unexpected to our guests and create those memorable moments that we all love about travel. For our guests, The Townhouse needs to be a place to stay, visit, relax and enjoy. For the team, it’s about working in an environment you can learn from, developing new skills and to grow within this industry.”

Having joined the Iconic team when the property was merely a building site, Federico has enjoyed watching the developments, especially when it comes to the bedrooms and suites. “My favourite is our Loft Suite, the best suite in the hotel. The terrace provides guests with an amazing view of the neighbourhood, and this is something relatively uncommon for Mayfair.”

W H E N D O YO U A R R I V E ?

With 172 bedrooms and uniquely designed suites, including 3 Signature Suites and 2 Garden Suites, The Mayfair Townhouse will provide you with all you need for a city adventure you’ll wax lyrical about for years to come. It’s all in the ‘Dandy’ detail.

To book your city escape in marvellous Mayfair, visit www.themayfairtownhouse.com

The pieces of artwork adorned across the property are some of the most iconic features of the hotel. Each piece has a story to tell. “I really like ‘Byron with iPad’ by Ant Fox, a painting located on our Lower Ground Floor.

It merges old with new and, for me, represents the ethos around The Townhouse perfectly: delivering the unexpected by creating a memorable stay.”

Raised in Italy, his love of indulgent flavours influenced much of the menu, particularly when it comes to the desserts. In keeping with The Townhouse’s playful character, there is an interesting tale to be told when it comes to the delicious tiramisu dessert, stemming back to Federico’s childhood. The recipe you’ll enjoy when dining at The Townhouse belongs to Federico’s mother, Rosella. Given to her back in the 1980s by her landlord and passed down to the next generation, the exact measurements are unknown and is purely led with the taste of the cream.

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little

HA NS ’ BA R & GRI LL - 11 CA DO GAN G A RDEN S

L O N DON 11 Cadogan Gardens offers a home-from-home warmth to make you feel nothing other than at ease, relaxed and indulged during your city break.

As the only Relais & Châteaux property in London and recently awarded 5 Red Stars by the AA, our city cousin is one to visit, as is its location. This unassuming part of London is far more tranquil than you may have imagined, making it the perfect place to stay during your visit to The Capital.

From the moment you step onto the pavement of Cadogan Gardens, you’ll be greeted with the sound of very little other than the rustling of leaves in the private garden square and the faint noise of those enjoying the pedestrianised Pavilion Road.

Consider this an experience of ‘Little London’ providing you with the culture you know and love, yet away from the chaotic feel of our busy city centre.

Chelsea is picturesque, historical and filled with character. So what are you waiting for? Here’s just some of our favourite parts to explore during your stay at our city cousin hotel…

FA C T S A B O U T T H E A R E A :

1 2 3 4

When dawdling the streets of Chelsea you’ll notice the blue plaques which adorn many buildings with names of the famous who once lived there or made history. There are 950 plaques to find in total across the city.

It’s long been an enclave of the rich and famous and it’s also home to some of London’s finest period buildings, one of England’s oldest and best libraries, the ground-breaking Royal Court Theatre, the Chelsea Pensioners, Chelsea Bridge, the Chelsea Bun, and the world’s most famous flower show.

Speaking of the Chelsea Bun, this delicious pastry was first created in the Chelsea Bun House and was popular amongst members of the royal family. The bakery sadly closed in 1839, however the legacy remains... in our apartment breakfast hampers, in fact.

Chelsea has long been a haven for artists and radicals, painters and poets, and is London’s most fashionable, artistic and hedonistic neighbourhood. It has inspired artists from Bram Stoker to Bob Marley (he wrote ‘I Shot the Sheriff’ in a one-bedroom flat, off Cheyne Walk). The mini skirt and punk

5

were also invented in Chelsea.

In the mid-1950s, a community of bright and ambitious young designers, artists, film directors and socialites descended on the King’s Road. The Chelsea Set, as the group became known, put the neighbourhood back on the map. Then the 1960s arrived and suddenly Chelsea became the epicentre of ‘Swinging London’ – and the fashionable world.

EXPLORE BY FOOT London’s longest mews, Pavilion Road, welcomes foodies from all over the world. Lined with Victorian-era stables, the road is now a picturesque haven for independent and artisan food, beauty and fashion stores. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to try their hand at foraging to experience sustainably grown produce as part of the area’s ‘edible trail’. Reserve a table in our restaurant Hans’ Bar & Grill, our all-day eatery, to sample some of the most delicious dishes inspired by Head Chef Rowen Babe’s international upbringing, using the finest British ingredients.

Chelsea, in particular, is the perfect borough for civilised strolls through time. Take to the Thomas Path or Jubilee Greenway for fresh air and famous sights plus the promise of picturesque views for those Insta-worthy photos!

Take in the breath-taking sights of the city along the famous Chelsea Embankment, which sits alongside the River Thames. This is as beautiful on a cold, frosty morning as it is in the height of summer. Sip a takeaway coffee from our place and enjoy some people-watching. A visit to Chelsea would not be complete without visiting the rainbow-painted houses of Bywater Street. Other areas nearby that are easily accessible by foot include Knightsbridge, Kensington Palace, Chelsea Physic Gardens, Belgravia, Mayfair and the hustle and bustle of Sloane Square.

Growing THE BUBBLE IS

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nestled away from the hustle and bustle of cosmopolitan living.

Whilst romantic escapes and business travel are very much present within our genre of guest, we’ve added a whole new kind of style to our offering. Introducing our newest, most exciting project yet: The Apartments by 11 Cadogan Gardens.

These innovative new additions to the hotel comprise of six newly, yet sensitively, renovated apartments, bringing more independence to our usual city traveller. Fully equipped with kitchen facilities and, in some of the apartments, up to three bedrooms, the accommodation is perfect for groups of friends to congregate, explore our cool neighbourhood, reunite in a central location and relax in privacy.

“Apart from offering the ability to stay in a luxurious contemporary

“

“

11 Cadogan Gardens is a spectacular, historically distinguished home,

‘home-from-home’ environment, The Apartments are ideally located to

explore the hustle and bustle of Chelsea and its environs, while positioned discreetly in a quiet square with wonderful views over Cadogan Gardens.

The Apartments offer complete privacy if required, or guests can take advantage of all the hotel services at our hotel including room service,

concierge, housekeeping, Hans’ Bar & Grill, plus a welcome hamper filled with treats from Pavilion Road, including all the essentials for a stay.”

Ian Richardson, General Manager of 11 Cadogan Gardens

Your Chelsea Escape Begins Here...

Save 10% when you book an extended getaway at the brand new Apartments by 11 Cadogan Gardens. Book 8-14 nights to give you more opportunity to explore the city!

To book your escape today, simply call 020 7730 7000 and quote CHELSEA TONIC to redeem this offer.

*Offer is subject to availability and is valid on bookings made and taken before 31st August 2021. Cancellation terms apply and this promotion is based on a room only basis. Rates are inclusive of VAT.

With views of the famous Cadogan Estate, each apartment reflects Chelsea’s historical architecture and celebrates chic, stylish city living in its most luxurious form. Led by pioneering interior designers, Atellior, the concept celebrates period features, artisan flair, sumptuous detail and timeless elegance.

So the question is, who will you bring? Shop ‘til you drop, indulge in the finest food, relax in your own city bubble, and catch up with friends and family in the newest accommodation in town.

To book one of The Apartments at 11 Cadogan Gardens, please visit: www.11cadogangardens.com I CO N I C LUXU RY H OT E L S

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Great Outdoors THE

When thinking of peace and quiet, we’re not talking about silence.

We’re talking about hearing the breeze through the trees, the sound of birds, and the crunching leaves beneath our feet. Staycations are on the rise, giving us the opportunity to pause and take a look at our surroundings. It’s also enabled us to discover new towns and villages we wouldn’t normally visit, and walking routes that offer the most spectacular views of beautiful Britain in all its glory. With the prospect of a holiday abroad still a fairly precarious idea, our properties provide the gift of outdoor adventure, and we’re awaiting your arrival…

“The earth has music for those who listen.”

William Shakespeare

T H E LYG O N A R M S Honey-stoned exteriors, leafy locations, sweeping hills and cobbled streets. Each Cotswold town and village comes with its own unique charm and character, which is why exploring the area is a must during your stay at The Lygon Arms.

Our Recommended Walk: The Cotswold Way Broadway Tower is a privately-owned Cotswold destination set within a 50-acre estate of woods and parkland, allowing visitors to experience great English heritage in an inspiring location. Conveniently located on the Cotswold Way, it is your perfect place to visit.

The tower is an iconic landmark on top of the beautiful Cotswolds escarpment. It was the brainchild of the great 18th century landscape designer, Capability Brown. His vision was carried out for George William, 6th Earl of Coventry, with the help of renowned architect James Wyatt.

The build was completed in 1798.

Set off from the doorstep of The Lygon Arms to take a 45-minute walk up to Broadway Tower through beautiful Cotswold fields. No wellies? No worries.

Borrow a pair of our Le Chameau wellingtons, and march up the hill in style.

www.lygonarmshotel.co.uk/sleep-over/destination I CO N I C LUXU RY H OT E L S

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‘BEES’NESS A S U S UA L In celebration of World Bee Day this spring.

CLIVEDEN HOUSE A visit to Cliveden offers a dreamy selection of luxury and nature - the best combination for a quintessentially English escape, one might think.

Whether you intend to stroll for hours, or work up an appetite for your evening feast or afternoon tea, we can recommend a selection of walks around the estate, provided by the National Trust, with the promise of adventure throughout.

Once you’ve exhausted your intrepid desires on our 376 acre estate, be sure to retreat back to the hotel and reward your efforts with a chilled glass of Champagne in the Great Hall or Library, or choose a dip in the pool inside or out. www.clivedenhouse.co.uk/stay-over/destination

Bees play an integral part in the survival of our eco-system. It’s important that we as humans contribute towards their survival; after all, without these buzzing little workers we wouldn’t be left with much of a chance. Chewton Glen Estate Manager, Darren Venables, knows a thing or two about creating glorious gardens that not only look beautiful, but will also attract wildlife and, in particular, the bees themselves. With over 70 hard-working beehives at the hotel, Darren and his team have ensured there are plenty of plants for the bees to pollinate all year round… © The National Trust

“Since we first decided to keep bees here we had to think carefully about what we plant in the grounds. You cannot keep healthy colonies of bees without a large amount of readily available food and water.

One of the first things we had to do was to look at the Estate and establish what flowered. We also had to start thinking about the bedding plants and provide an easily accessible food source.

As recommended by Keith Wilkie, Facilities & Business Services Manager

One really good example of this is the Limnanthes we plant around

of Cliveden Estate, National Trust

the bases of the trees in the orchards. The plants attract hover flies

“The beauty of being a guest of Cliveden House is that you get after-hours

to feed from them, the flies then eat the aphids which attack the

access to the grounds. Once the gates are closed, you’ll have it all to yourself.

In terms of our ‘views and vistas’, as we call them, there are so many to choose from. For tranquillity, head over to the water garden and listen to the water

fruit trees. This way we have a natural pest control and eliminate the need for spraying chemicals just through giving the planting some careful thought.”

trickling. Take a hike up to the Duke’s statue to watch the sunset and the view of the house – there’s nothing really like it with the clock tower illuminated in the sky and all the lights on… it’s magical! You simply must take a tour down the river by boat. Cliveden was designed for surprise, and by gliding up the river you’ll see how it works. The house looks over everything.

For more breath-taking views, take a walk down to the Tortoise Fountain and just take it all in. From the sweeping valleys to the Thames, you’ll see for miles.

Finally the Long Garden is bursting with life and colour. You must visit this part of the grounds.”

If you’re looking for ways to make your garden more environmentally friendly, here are Darren’s top 5 ‘bee-friendly’ plants to grow: 1. Lavender

4. Echinacea

2. Limnanthes douglasii

5. Jerusalem sage

(poached egg plant)

3. Verbena bonariensis

… A N D W H E N T H E G R E AT O U T D O O R S M E E T S . . .

Great Food

There are simply not enough hours in the day when it comes to basking in the British sunshine. Combine this setting with the perfect group of friends and family and you’ll want for nothing. After months spent indoors and separated from loved ones, it’s about indulging in good food, fine wine, and even better company.

A C RU I S E O N T H E T H A M E S CLIVEDEN STYLE Praised for its glorious grounds and historical grandeur, Cliveden offers one of the most picturesque experiences of them all, a river cruise along the Thames. Of course, no river cruise from Cliveden should set off without a bottle of fizz and a delicious picnic to accompany one’s travels. Better still, this service is as private as you wish, available for a maximum of 10 people depending on your choice of boat. Glide along the river at leisure, indulge in the most delectable offering, admire the stunning scenery and sip Champagne. Name a more idyllic way to end a glorious day in the Great British sunshine?

C O U RT YA R D G A T H E R I N G S After a pleasant walk through Broadway or a hike up to the tower, you’ll no doubt work up an appetite for something hearty and delicious. The terrace at The Lygon Arms offers the perfect combination of sunshine and shade, making it ideal for those seeking fresh air and the glorious weather of spring and summer.

With a mouth-watering menu filled with local produce, there’s something for everyone. In fact, there truly is, for the courtyard menu has a specially created offering for those with a love of plant-based plates and vegan options. Order a chilled one and sip as you wait for your feast to arrive. There’s plenty of people-watching to do, plus after months away from your favourite companions, you’ll no doubt have a lot to talk about!

SUMMER VIBES I N T H E WA L L E D G A R D E N The Walled Garden has played host to more than just our flourishing home-grown produce, it’s the home of our popular Pizza Nights in the height of summer. This event is a real treat for all the senses. Whilst the pizzas are baking away in the roaring purpose-built oven, guests can distract themselves by admiring the garden’s vegetables and colourful sweet peas, all to the soothing sounds of music. The menu has no shortage of mouth-watering choices to enjoy from fresh salads and amazing pizzas to summery desserts. No early-evening garden soirée would be complete without a glass of Champagne, the only kind of bubbles we long to hear about.

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N E W FA C E S F O R O U R

London Hotels

Bring a thirst for Champagne, a hunger for delicious dishes and an empty diary. We’re here to help you make up for lost plans, and with new arrivals to the city, we’re ready to impress. Dining in one of our restaurants is everything eating at home isn’t: indulgent, unforgettable, and without a dish to wash up in sight.

With new menus containing culinary triumphs that you’ll want to try again and again, we’d like to take this opportunity to introduce you to our newest team members.

M O U T H - WAT E R I N G I N M AY F A I R

E L E VA T I N G 1 1 CADOGAN GARDENS

Head Chef at The Mayfair Townhouse

Head Chef at 11 Cadogan Gardens

Having reigned on the Good Food Guide’s list of ‘Chefs to Watch’ for 10 years, we’re delighted to welcome Adam Simmonds to The Mayfair Townhouse team.

Growing up in a family that prized the time spent around the table together, Adam has gone on to carve a remarkable career. Having discovered his passion for food as a teenager, he found that working positively with his dyslexia gave him a practical focus. This, combined with a quiet determination, has driven him on to head up and lead in some of Britain’s finest kitchens.

Foodie fact: He appeared on the Great British Menu, winning a place in the veteran’s banquet for his D-Day brief.

Adam is a firm believer in celebrating ingredients over clever intricacies. It’s about the flavour, not the amount of taste journeys across the plate. This ideal perfectly complements The Townhouse’s ethos for expecting the unexpected: this may look like a simple, delicate dish, yet all is not what it seems!

Rowen’s earliest memories of his culinary journey are of his childhood in New Zealand, standing on a stool in the kitchen helping his mum prepare their meals.

Sustainable foods were the aim of the game in the Babe household, with Rowen’s parents growing a lot of the produce they ate, along with tending to their own livestock.

You’ll find a lot of South East Asia undertones within Rowen’s menu, emphasising the influence of Thailand and Vietnam specifically.

With a passion for using fresh produce, having a base in London opens up plenty of opportunity to source the best of the best. ‘With so many small businesses in London it’s really easy to find local, enthusiastic suppliers who love nothing more than sharing their food and stories with you.’

Pavilion Road is known for its delicious food offering, and Chef Rowen is ready and waiting with a brand new menu for Hans’ Bar & Grill, bringing together his passion for fresh produce and his love of spice and versatile herbs.

THE MAYFAIR TOWNHOUSE www.themayfairtownhouse.com/eat-meet

HANS’ BAR & GRILL www.hansbarandgrill.com

Adam Simmonds,

Rowen Babe,

Leave the Cooking to Us Whether you’re looking for laidback light bites or a feast for all the senses, book a table at one of our city hangouts today. The question is, which one will you choose?

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FOR LITTLE GUESTS We believe that there is such a thing as luxury travel with the children. We appreciate that children of all ages and interests seek all kinds of different experiences, so with this in mind, take a look at a handful of our activities and places to visit during your stay at our properties; we guarantee you’ll find something they’ll love to do.

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T H E LYG O N A R M S Bring them to our Cotswold sibling, perfectly placed in the heart of the countryside. It’s the wildlife that draws us to the Cotswolds, especially as it’s home to some of the best wildlife parks around.

Our Family Favourite: C O T S W O L D FA R M PA R K Meet the nation’s favourite farmer at the Cotswold Farm Park.

You’ll learn how a working farm is run through plenty of fun. The farm was originally set up to protect rare breeds, a legacy that is still cherished today. Now it comes with bundles of extra fun like the Animal Barn where you can watch seasonal demonstrations such as lambing, milking and sheep shearing. Catch a ride on the farm Safari Tractor, visit adorable rabbits and chicks in the Discovery Barn or get lost in the maze before taking a leap onto an enormous jumping pillow. To top it all off why not let the little ones loose with a ride-on JCB or a play in the massive indoor sandpit? www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk

Wagging Tails & Wonderful Wellies …a match made in heaven, we say. The Lygon Arms has launched an exciting new partnership with master bootmakers, Le Chameau.

Celebrating over 90 years of fine craftsmanship and some of the most comfortable, premium wellington boots you’ll ever slip into, Le Chameau boots have been designed with adventure in mind.

At the end of 2020 we transformed our side entrance into a ‘Gentleman’s Boot Room’, filled with historical artefacts and a beautiful selection of Le Chameau wellies, exclusively available for our guests, making exploration possible whatever the weather.

After a long walk in the countryside with your wet-nosed companion, you can rest your feet in an armchair and they can relax in the comfort of their own Le Chameau dog bed, an addition they can take home with them at the end of their stay.

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C H E W TO N G L E N Chewton Glen offers a wide range of activities for all ages. The hotel boasts of beautiful wildlife living across 130 acres of land, from buzzards, pheasants and deer to 70 thriving beehives, to name but a few. The latest addition to the family are Teddy Bear Sheep. Hershey and his friends reside in the Orchard, with Shepherdess Angie tending to them regularly. Take the sheep for a walk around the estate or just spend a morning or afternoon fully immersed in nature.

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love CAN’T WAIT

A Real Wedding Story

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With the prospect of normal life resuming, no doubt many couples are dreaming about the chance of the wedding they always wanted, once again. The year of 2020 saw the trend of intimate weddings rise and whilst some of these events were circumstantial, they were just as beautiful, just as emotional and just as memorable as if they really were in the South of France or surrounded by hundreds of loved ones, as intended.

Of course, the idea of exclusive use and more extravagant celebrations is exciting, especially for our industry, however we wouldn’t want to see the demise of such a small yet glorious occasion, as they really were special and taught us that even 2020 couldn’t stop love! …just ask Mr & Mrs England.

A CLIVEDEN

‘Real Weddings’ S T O RY

“I cannot recommend a small wedding more, I was always planning a big wedding but after having our intimate wedding at Cliveden we don’t even feel the need for a bigger party. Our teeny wedding was more than we ever hoped for!”

HOW IT ALL BEGAN… Adam and I were set up on a blind date by a mutual friend because of our love of the South of France. We got engaged on a tiny island in Thailand where we stayed in an incredible treehouse. Adam woke me up at the crack of dawn and proposed on our balcony as the sun rose over the beach.

O U R C E L E B R AT I O N …

We wanted our wedding to be elegant and natural, including lots of personal touches. An intimate wedding meant that we could give all of our guests handwritten notes and personalised gifts, which we would never have been able to do if we had a larger CONT. I CO N I C LUXU RY H OT E L S

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wedding. We are foodies so having exceptional food and wine was top on our priority list, and Cliveden did not let us down. The food was divine, especially the truffle gnocchi.

We knew we wanted to get married at Cliveden when we met Lydia. She exudes an abundance of positivity and made us feel super special, as though we were the first people to ever get married at Cliveden. There were a huge amount of challenges as the government brought in more and more Covid restrictions; Lydia always did her utmost to come up with creative solutions to ensure our day could go ahead with limited compromises.

We are both born and bred Londoners, but we always dreamed we would get married on a beach in the South of France.

As that wasn’t possible due to the pandemic we decided that the backdrop to our ceremony needed to be equally beautiful.

The views from the French Dining Room over the National Trust gardens are unbelievable.

We had always planned a bigger South of France wedding. Sadly, my dad found out he had to have a triple heart bypass while we were in lockdown. At that moment, we realised all that mattered was that our parents were around to see us get married and particularly for my dad to be able to walk me down the aisle.

The pandemic has taught us to appreciate today and make the most of every situation. We thought we would have cared more that we couldn’t have a wedding abroad, but after two lockdowns all we wanted was for our closest circle of friends and family to be together in one room.

THE MOMENTS… One of the most precious moments was my closest friend singing ‘Over the rainbow’ as I walked down the aisle. It was so emotional, my dad and I had already started crying before we entered the room. It was really poignant, not only because my husband was at the end of the aisle waiting for me, but because of the times we were in. That moment really gave us hope for brighter days.

The huge sense of intimacy means your emotions are heightened, I have never cried and laughed so much. It also meant we were able to spend a significant amount of time with each and every one of our guests. Hopefully, it will mean our wedding will be as memorable to them as it was to us. From a practical point of view, a smaller wedding can be organised much more quickly and without all the stress; we organised ours in just a few months.

W O R D S O F A DV I C E …

Try not to lust after your perfect Pinterest wedding and focus on what really matters, which is ultimately you and your husband or wife-to-be. Make sure you adapt to the times and embrace the reality that smaller weddings will be here for a while. I can definitely vouch that small was just as beautiful and if you do go small, I would still go big on the dress and the flowers!

THE OUTFITS, FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS AND PH OTO G R A P H E R …

My dress was the Cailey from Suzanne Neville. My shoes were Manolo Blahnik Hangisi’s, which I have lusted after since Carrie wore them in Sex and the City. A close friend, who designed my engagement ring, made some bespoke pearl and diamond drop earrings for me. The flowers were curated by Ruby and Grace; I wanted an abundance of pale pink roses and hydrangeas to match my pale pink Mount Street stationery. We added in some hot pink roses and some leopard candles for a bit of fun.

One of the things we decided we did not want to compromise on was having an incredible photographer to capture the day.

We used internationally acclaimed photographer, Charlie Dailey, who has an ability to make anyone and everyone feel completely at ease, and as if she isn’t even in the room.

Make your moment in history with a small or grand celebration at Cliveden. www.clivedenhouse.co.uk/host-your-wedding/

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Retreat Yourself The Spa at Chewton Glen celebrates its 30th anniversary this June.

Sleek, sophisticated and serene are the three simple words that put The Spa at Chewton Glen back on its pedestal as one of the best hotel spas in the world, and a true ‘English Original’.

Thirty years ago the inspired decision was made to build a world-class spa at Chewton Glen, and it was officially opened in June 1991 by his late Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. It is hard to imagine today when spa culture is so embedded into our psyche that this controversial construction project divided the hospitality sector, causing a tremendous stir. But then, we have always liked causing a stir, and creating outstanding hospitality experiences for our guests.

A decision made in late 2019 to update the award-winning spa facilities in readiness for our 30th anniversary celebrations was also not without incident. Who could have imagined when our interior design consultant, Anita Rosato, finalised her plans that Covid-19 was waiting to make its dramatic appearance? And who would have thought a transformative spa renovation, due to be completed in the spring of 2020, would be subject to shutdown when it was 90% finished, and just one week away from reopening?

However, reopen it did and the angelic white, slate grey and zen calm mood board that Anita created now has spa-goers feeling 10 years younger in 10 seconds – or so we are told! At the heart of the spa is the spacious 17-metre indoor pool, flooded with natural light. The design scheme incorporates elegant new wall murals, which hints at the hotel’s countryside location, with muted colours encouraging relaxation, and new pool furniture offering the ultimate in spa day comfort.

The hydrotherapy spa, again originally the first of its kind in the UK, and still the country’s largest, takes the ancient tradition of the ‘water cure’ and offers it in a soothing white contemporary setting with hi-tech therapy options and blissfully relaxing air loungers. The new communal steam room by the main pool enhances our couples’ spa experience and is a welcome addition to the steam rooms and saunas located in the luxurious changing rooms, which have also been refreshed and updated.

The relaxed setting of the Pool Bar restaurant, with its delicious healthy menu, is the perfect place to meet friends and family. Extensive views over the gardens and parkland can be enjoyed from the large secluded sun terrace before relaxing in the outdoor whirl pool or slipping into a fluffy bathrobe and enjoying flicking through the pages of a glossy magazine.

With the new-look spa comes a new-look treatment menu that offers totally bespoke treatments. Unlike a traditional rigid treatment menu, investment in training ensures our therapists have the necessary skill set to customise treatments at a moment’s notice so that guests can mix and match different styles of massage technique, greatly enhancing the massage experience. Bespoke facials benefit from therapists’ freedom to use their initiative and extensive product knowledge to mix, match and customise the lotions and potions across all spa brands, and to choose the

individual cleansers, creams, serums and masks that will work best for your complexion.

Later this spring, we will release details of the 30th anniversary celebration planned for the Chewton Glen Spa, which will include some fabulous enhancements to our spa packages.

However, when you look beyond the beautiful restoration of the spa, its luxurious fittings, fragrant product ranges, and uplifting spa treatments, and then move past the conversations about the choice of Italian tiles from Monier (and the protracted arrangements for the Italian tilers to visit the property to fit them), The Spa at Chewton Glen remains an oasis of calm and tranquility. It is sleek, sophisticated and serene, but it is also warm and welcoming, inclusive and caring, and it remains a very special place in which to relax and unwind in a world-class setting.

C E L E B R AT E & G L O W Join in the celebration of our 30th anniversary with this special spa day offer. Includes: • • • • • • •

90-minute Natura Bissé Diamond Life Infusion Facial Breakfast in the Pool Bar on arrival Full use of the award-winning spa and leisure facilities Pool Bar lunch Selected refreshments throughout the day Daily attendance at fitness, dance and aerobic classes Natura Bissé gift to take home

Monday – Thursday | £210 per person Friday – Sunday | £230 per person To book this experience please call 01425 282212 and quote ‘SPA TONIC’ at the time of booking. *Offer must be redeemed and used from 1st June to 31st July 2021.

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MIXING BUSINESS WITH

Trying to maintain the same level of creativity and engagement we used to experience in the office or boardroom has been challenging, yet this is where a team away day could be justCOVER the ticket for reinvigorating your BACK team and rewarding hard work.

ICONIC EXPERIENCES Iconic Experiences is an inspiring and flexible solution for reward, recognition and incentive programmes. This is a unique way to reinforce group identity and satisfy the human need for live interaction by giving corporate teams and customers a safe and appealing way to enjoy a group travel experience individually.

Each Iconic Experience will include a one or two night stay at one of five of the UK’s most luxurious hotels, paired with a unique and dynamic ‘experience’ exclusive to each property. The benefits of this incentive programme are that it can suit all budgets, it’s flexible, it’s suitable for groups of all sizes and, most importantly, in the current day, it is safe. Each experience is tailored to the property you choose to host at and activities range from butler’s tours and photography workshops, to learning to play polo or canoeing down the Beaulieu River.

To find out more about this interesting new way to incentivise and reward your team, contact our Sales Director of MICE, Lisa Lernoux-Dock: lisa@iconicluxuryhotels.com

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“I love The Tote Room at Cliveden. Where better to immerse yourself in the cosy, warm and peaceful surroundings of Lord Astor’s private study? Put your feet up, enjoy a coffee and sit by the fire with your laptop and phone and impress everyone on your Zoom calls with a countryside backdrop. This amazing space can be hired privately from just £260inc VAT per day.”

Joanna Honey, Deputy Director of Sales, Iconic Luxury Hotels

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Each Iconic property offers a diverse combination of business and pleasure, meaning you can get the big important ‘stuff’ out the way and then move on to something far more fun.

ALL RISE FOR THE WO R K - AT I O N S !

For decades our Iconic family has provided sophisticated spaces to inspire and motivate workforces from across the world.

We have always been big believers in ‘bleisure’ (business and leisure) as, after all, as cliché as it may sound, productivity thrives when you’re working in an inspiring space. The all new ‘work-ations’ trend is up and coming and after months of typing at your dining room table or locking the children out of the study, it’s time for a change of scenery. This is the beauty of being more mobile, you can set up camp in your local coffee shop, or even a luxurious hotel…

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