Coaching Inn Group Magazine 2024

DINE AND UNWIND

TWO NIGHT BED AND BREAKFAST, THREE COURSE DINNER AND THE WARMEST OF WELCOMES, PRICES FROM £146.

Welcome to our Magazine

Over the last year, The Coaching Inn Group has moved from strength to strength, with three new hotels joining the group: Sedgeford’s King William, The Saracen’s Head in Essex and The Royal Wells in Tunbridge Wells. With 35 hotels now in the family, we’re hugely excited to be able to continue to bring the philosophy of ‘Hospitality from the Heart’ to more guests across England and Wales.

As well as continuing to grow our Coaching Inn Group family, we are thrilled to announce that we’ve been recognised as both AA Hotel Group of the Year, and as a Which? Recommended Provider. These accolades are testament to the brilliant hospitality our hard-working teams are dedicated to delivering to our guests.

In light of this, we also have some more personal news from The Coaching Inn Group family. Kevin Charity, the CEO and founder of The Coaching Inn Group, made the decision to retire earlier in the year. Leaving on a high was always part of the plan, and with the recent awards, accolades and new additions to the group, the time felt right for Kevin to hand the reigns over to the next Coaching Inn Group generation. We wish him all the best as he enjoys this well-deserved time with his family and friends.

With Kevin’s retirement also comes the news of Adam Charity stepping into the role as Chief Operating Officer. Taking on the role of COO, Adam will continue to oversee the day-to-day operations of the business whilst ensuring the Coaching Inn Group remains and continues to grow as a well-respected brand in British hospitality, focused on our guests’ experience.

Coaching Inn Group

Head Office, Friars House, Quaker Lane, Boston, Lincolnshire PE21 6BZ. 01205 355522

coachinginngroup.co.uk

office@innmail.co.uk

/coachinginngroup

/coachinginnsuk

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“I have had the pleasure of working with my father over the last 17 years and have been lucky to be part of the legacy that he created. Although bittersweet, I am happy to see Kevin take a well-earned rest and spend some quality time with his wife, my mother Lily. I am dedicated to continuing the journey and with the support of our fabulous team, ensure that our ethos remains ingrained, hospitality from the heart.”

Adam Charity

COO, The Coaching Inn Group

ARMS, BAKEWELL A

HART ROYAL, MORETON IN MARSH

The

inn in ‘The Cotswolds.’

in the Malverns

ARMS AND ROYAL Godalming’s 14th’s century coaching inn.

THREE WAYS TO DISCOVER THE COACHING INN GROUP

We’re making it easier than ever to find somewhere to stay, that suits your style, in some of the most beautiful areas of the country...

by Rob Davis

publisher Julian Wilkinson. E&OE.

Classic Collection:

Premium Collection: Usually found in towns popular with tourists, our premium Inns have lots of character

plenty to do in the area. Food is of AA Rosette standard and bedrooms have

lovely touches like Nespresso coffee machines and Roberts Radios.

Signature Collection: These hotels & inns are often found in places of natural beauty and are ideal for a leisure stay experience. They are set apart by the attention to detail which adds to the relaxing atmosphere of the Signature additions to our estate.

Inn the News

We’ve won the AA’s top Hospitality

Raising money for Hospitality Action

Supporting our colleagues across the industry in conjunction with the charity Hospitality Action

Long hours, late nights and a fair bit of pressure. Working in the hospitality industry is a labour of love, which is why restaurants and hotels tend to have really strong teams, working together to not only provide the best experience for our guests, but to support each other as colleagues too.

Hospitality Action was established in 1837 and offers practical, financial and emotional support to our colleagues across the industry in the event that they face anything from physical or mental illness to financial

difficulty, family problems or addiction.

The Coaching Inn Group and its team members recognise the importance of supporting the charity, which is why on Hospitality Action Day every September the group’s 1,300 employees donate their tips to the charity.

Our customers can also order ‘invisible chips’ from our menus, too, which donates £2 to the organisation ensuring it can continue to help support those in the hospitality industry.

See www.hospitalityaction.org.uk.

Award!

The Coaching Inn Group is proud to announce that we have been awarded the AA Group of the Year award for 2023-2024. This award is the AA’s ultimate accolade for hotels in the UK and is presented to outstanding examples of hotels.

The award reflects the passion for excellent hospitality, and the desire to provide guests with the best experience possible, both of which are demonstrated by team members across the whole estate.

“We are hugely proud of the achievements we have accomplished here at The Coaching Inn Group,” The Coaching Inn Group’s founder and CEO, Kevin Charity, said. “To have received recognition at this level really shows that the hard work the whole team demonstrates, is seen by our guests, but by the industry too.’”

“Our hospitality from the heart ethos has been taken very much to heart by all of our teams and we’re excited to see it being recognised by this award.”

Have you enjoyed a meal or stay at one of our hotels? We’d love your feedback - email it to office@innmail.co.uk

Building on our history

Looking after our fabulous historic buildings is sometimes hard work, but it’s always worthwhile!

We really love our historic coaching inn buildings, but gosh, sometimes they’re really not the easiest premises to maintain!

Late last year we completed a £300,000 project to restore the riverbank adjacent to Boston’s White Hart Hotel. With an old tree, adjacent to the river, deemed unsafe, we embarked on its removal, plus the restoration

of the brickwork in the river itself, and installed new paving with a new patio and railings to smarten up the historic site.

A new tree has been planted on the site adjacent to the hotel too.

The structure of the river bank dates back to the 13th century and the group will continue to protect and preserve the historic site on the town’s High Street.

Go green... skip the clean!

We all enjoy the chance to sleep in from time to time, and Henry here is no exception. If you’re staying over for several nights, why not skip the clean and avoid being disturbed!

Delicious new dishes...!

Coaching Inn Group Executive Chef on our new bites

How do you please all of the people, all of the time? Well, if you’re a member of The Coaching Inn Group’s kitchen teams, it’s a case of getting together and working hard to design and finesse new dishes to ensure all of the guests dining at our 35 hotels enjoy a brilliantly devised menu of exciting food, served both day and night. Executive Chef Dave Simms oversees over 200 chefs and team members working hard to design really good menus with something for everyone to enjoy.

“As a company we really do believe in making sure all of our team members can make suggestions, develop their skills and contribute to making really good food for our guests,” says Dave. “Everyone is included, and with so many ideas put forward and refined, we have the creativity and technical skills to produce some really impressive food.”

“The kitchen teams of our hotels all get together several times a year for menu development meetings. From those meetings, we constantly revise all our menus to ensure we offer plenty of choice, imaginative dishes and to ensure we constantly infuse our menus with new ideas.”

“Though we strive to offer consistency both in our individual hotels and across our group, we’re also keen to champion local suppliers from Lincolnshire sausages to mussels from Brancaster to Stilton or Harrogate Blue cheese from local suppliers, to name a few examples.”

We all enjoy a rest now and then… even Henry here. If you’re staying in one of our inns for several nights we’re offering a new option known as ‘go green, skip the clean,’ which means we’ll leave your room out of our housekeeping schedule.

The idea is that you can sleep in, whilst we reduce the amount of rooms to vacuum and the amount of towels and bed linen to launder, saving water, chemicals and electricity. We’re still happy to top up your tea and coffee, of course, but if you’d like to go green and skip the clean, just let us know… and we’ll make sure Henry the Hoover knows too that he gets to sleep in that day!

“Our new dishes make the most of the best local suppliers from across the country, and we’re showing off a few of our newest dishes available to our guests on page 10 of this magazine.”

A ‘Which?’ Recommended Supplier

The Coaching Inn Group is now a Which? Recommended Provider, a true testament to our unwavering commitment to providing top-quality service and ensuring our customers leave with smiles on their faces. “Earning the Which? Recommended Provider endorsement is a moment of immense pride for all of us at Coaching Inn Group. We’ve always believed in putting our customers first, and this is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our exceptional teams,” says the group’s Chief Financial Officer, Edward Walsh.

Just Arrived

THE MOST RECENT ADDITIONS TO THE COACHING INN GROUP

King William IV

in Sedgeford

New to The Coaching Inn Group’s portfolio of Norfolk-based hotels...

A PRETTY country pub and hotel, nearly 190 years old, The King William IV has become one of the newest hotels within The Coaching Inn Group’s portfolio of classic coaching inns, with nine rooms and tempting dining both during the daytime and in the evening. Whilst in the area, enjoy the wonderful coastline including Hunstanton and Snettisham Find out more at: www.thekingwilliamsedgeford.co.uk

Saracens Head, Essex

Based in Great Dunmow, Essex, just 15 minutes from Stanstead, The Saracens Head Hotel provides 29 bedrooms, and lots of character thanks to its 19th century origins. It’s the first Coaching Inn Group hotel based in Essex, and a brand new menu in the restaurant is already proving popular with locals. A complete refurbishment of bedrooms and the Saracen’s Head’s restaurant due to take place later in 2024. See www.saracens head-hotel.co.uk.

For a full list of the beautiful Coaching Inns in the group, see page 128

WHAT’S COOKING

With over 200 chefs and team members working hard in the kitchen, The Coaching Inn Group is adept at delivering some stunning dishes for guests to enjoy... Group Executive Chef Dave Simms picks his favourites!

Opposite: A consistent favourite of the dessert menu in every Coaching Inn Group hotel... a classic sticky toffee pudding! Top: Confit duck with mandarin, an innovative twist on the classic French bistro dish, duck à l’orange. Above: Pie of the day, hand-raised, with shortcrust pastry and onion seeds.

This Page: Those favouring a plant-based diet are never under-represented at a Coaching Inn Group hotel. Pictured here is a vegan pakora and beetroot hanging kebab with mango chutney.

Tagliatelle, a wholesome, traditional dish of ‘comfort food.’

Loaded fries with creamy cheese sauce and smoked crispy bacon. Asparagus and parma ham dish in the background.

Opposite: A great way to round off your meal, this millionaire’s chocolate bomb features a dome of chocolate that melts away when you pour over a warm caramel sauce, revealing an iced caramel parfait within!

NB: Dishes may vary according to the individual twist that our kitchens invest in them, and are subject to availability.

SIGNATURE COLLECTION THE

With the completion of a comprehensive makeover of our Moorland Hotel in Devon, The Coaching Inn Group’s Kevin Wood explains what makes our Signature Collection inns so special...

The hotel came into the custodianship of The Coaching Inn Group in 2022 and alongside some of the group’s newest sites in Norfolk and the New Forest, it became one of the first to be given our Signature Inn classification.

Kevin is the group’s ambassador for our Signature hotels, and is responsible for creating a point of difference for the five premises in the group to be so designated.

He’s also been proudly overseeing a makeover of The Moorland, and during our interview, he was preparing to show off the new-look hotel to guests. >>

IT ’S A SPECIAL MOMENT for Kevin Wood and the team at Haytor’s Moorland Hotel down in Devon.

>> “The Coaching Inn Group and our teams always want to provide the best experience for guests whether they visit for a drink, dining, or they are staying overnight for business or pleasure,” says Kevin.

“Some of our sites though, are located in Britain’s most impressive leisure destinations and it’s those sites that we’ve concentrated on to create an extra special tier of hotel in which to ‘stay and unwind,’ which is the mantra of our Signature Collection inns.”

“There are currently five Signature Collection premises in the group; The Blakeney Manor Coastal Hotel, and The Pheasant at Holt in Norfolk, Haytors Moorland Hotel in Devon, the Forest Park Hotel in Brockenhurst and The Talbot, Malton.”

“The location of our Signature Collection premises provide the backdrop of stunning coastal destinations or leafy woodland, and they’re surrounded by lots of mature grounds, providing a really relaxing setting.”

“There are also additions to our Signature Collection rooms: Dyson hairdryers and Nespresso coffee machines, as well as pillow sprays from our chosen shower and bath products brand, H2K.”

“Another treat is the locally-sourced biscuits, fudge or chocolates that we place in your room. In Brockenhurst’s New Forest Hotel for example, we’ve partnered with a talented local chocolatier called Miss Whitt to create some really delicious truffles for our guests and at Devon’s Moorland Hotel, we’ve partnered with the Devon Fudge Company.”

“We’re keen to champion local tea and coffee in our Signature Collection premises too; Voyager Coffee roasted in Devon or premium blend tea from the New Forest Tea Company.”

“Our partnership with local producers also extends to creating a range of gins, designed to reflect the botanicals available close to each of our Signature Premises. For instance, the bespoke gin in our Norfolk-based Blakeney Manor

“The idea of the Signature Collection is that we want to take all of the values that we express in each of our towns and offer somewhere really special to enjoy a break combining an impressive location, a premium guest experience...”

Coastal Hotel and Pheasant at Holt features sprigs of marshland samphire, and the Brock Gin we provide at our New Forest hotel features a range of botanicals from the woodland surrounding the hotel.”

“The same appreciation for local suppliers is reflected in our menus too, with locally sourced jam and preserves from the Naked Jam company at the Forest Park, honey produced in local hives, and specialist sausages sourced from local butchers.

“Our Signature Collection menus also feature extra choice for diners with dishes like fresh British oysters, served with a black garlic aioli, and dishes like our fillets steaks or chateaubriand.”

“Visitors to our Signature Collection premises are usually enjoying a break for leisure, rather than business, so there’s an emphasis on attentive but unhurried service among our teams.”

“Our extra treats and thoughtful touches even extend to our four-legged guests, with dog owners visiting our Signature Collection sites receiving a welcome pack containing toys, treats and a plush towel for your dog’s paws after you return from a long walk.”

“The idea of the Signature Collection is that we want to take all of the values that we express in each of our towns and offer somewhere really special to enjoy a break, combining an impressive location with a premium guest experience.”

“Right across The Coaching Inn Group’s estate we always want to ensure that the customer enjoys a great experience, with professionalism underwritten by a genuinely friendly feel.”

“We’re proud of the new look Moorland Hotel and we think it’ll be a great expression of exactly what our Signature Collection means for guests in terms of the hotels’ comfort and feel.” n

Find Out More: The Coaching Inn Group has five Signature Collection inns across the country, we’ll explore each one on the following pages. Top: The Pheasant, Holt. Opposite: The Talbot, Malton and a bedroom at the Moorland, Dartmoor.

Make the most of the coast in

NORFOLK NORTH

A brace of comfortable Signature-grade coaching inns in beautiful North Norfolk. Allow us to introduce you to The Manor House at Blakeney and the Pheasant in Kelling

Image: A view along the River Glaven in Cley, Norfolk, taken by Nicola Pulham via Shutterstock.

TheMANOR COASTAL HOTEL & INN

Stunning coastal views and gloriously fresh air are just two of the sensory delights when you visit the North Norfolk coast and enjoy the hospitality of Blakeney’s Manor Hotel & Inn...

If you’re fond of sand dunes and salty air there’s no need to travel all the way to old Cape Cod. You’ll find a warm welcome, modern hospitality and a truly rewarding sensory experience on the North Norfolk coast, and one of the best examples of the quality of hospitality the area can offer is The Coaching Inn Group’s Manor Coastal Hotel and Inn.

Last year the hotel celebrated 100 years of hospitality, built on the site of a former ale house and several other buildings on the Blakeney coast. The former harbour’s fortunes transitioned from fishing to tourism some time ago and today the village is home to fewer than 1,000 people but visited by a huge number of tourists. >>

Left: Celebrating its centenary in 2022, The Manor Coastal Hotel is one of The Coaching Inn Group’s newest additions.

Stunning food, comfortable rooms and the best hospitality Norfolk has to offer, The Manor Coastal Hotel is a flagship inn offering guests the very warmest of welcomes...

>> That should come as little surprise since the area has much to offer, not least the fact that the local coastline is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with a wealth of wildlife and expansive skies.

Coaching Inn Quality

Back in 2022, The Coaching Inn Group brought The Manor Hotel into the family and treated it to a comprehensive refurbishment of its bedrooms and communal areas, including its lounge and restaurants.

Whilst a fresh new look has been introduced, the group has retained the hotel’s ability to afford its guests some spectacular views of the area with its expansive skies and coastal landscapes with their wealth of bird life.

Delicious Fresh Dining

In keeping with its coastal location, one of the highlights of a seasonally-changing menu includes British oysters. Served with shallot vinegar, chimichurri or parsley gratin, these are offered alongside Brancaster mussels, salt ‘n’ pepper squid, plus linguine, during

lunchtime service. In the evening a dinner menu features: grazing options, oysters, six starters including pigeon on toast and twice-booked pork belly, plus main course options including a Chef’s Day Boat Seasonal Catch, a bouillabaissestyle seafood stew, and duck a l’orange.

Dessert options include a zabaglione parfait, plum frangipane, pear and cardamom brülée, as well as a cheese board of locally-sourced artisan cheese with Norfolk cider apple chutney. We’d also recommend a samphireinfused Blakeney Gin with cranberry and mandarin, a signature drink created especially for the hotel.

Comfortable Bedrooms

A good night’s sleep and boutique luxury is assured in beautiful rooms equipped with luxurious king-sized beds, a Dyson hairdryer and Roberts radio.

Stunning food, comfortable rooms and the finest hospitality Norfolk has to offer, The Manor Coastal Hotel is a flagship inn offering guests the best experience and the very warmest of welcomes. n

Dining: Available for residents and non-residents alike. Daytime menu with brunch options and small plates plus lunchtime staples. Evening menu with oysters, starters, 10 main courses with local seafood well reflected. Bar menu and Sunday lunch menu.

Hotel: 36 bedrooms with Classic and Superior grades, many with views over the area’s coast and salt marshes.

Contact: The Manor Coastal Hotel & Inn, The Quay, Blakeney, Norfolk, NR25 7ND. Call 01263 679011 or see www.blakeneymanor.co.uk. n

THE MANOR COASTAL HOTEL & INN, BLAKENEY

ThePHEASANT

in Holt

Relax and unwind in our North Norfolk-based hotel, The Pheasant, with its coastal walks, nature and exceptional accommodation

The 2,250 acre Kelling Estate was created in 1913 when architect Sir Edward Maufe purchased the land and commissioned the Arts & Crafts movement-styled Kelling Hall, now a grand Grade II* listed family home.

The surrounding land is a bucolic patchwork of farms, woodland and coastal landscapes to which the nearby Pheasant Hotel was added in 2012.

Last year the hotel came into the custodianship of The Coaching Inn Group and became one of the group’s signature inns offering beautiful rural accommodation with the outstanding natural beauty of North Norfolk’s Deep History Coastline on its doorstep.

The hotel comprises 32 beautifully styled bedrooms with Classic, Deluxe and Superior grades including those with stunning views over the surrounding countryside plus lavishly-appointed bathrooms with walk-in showers and bathtub TVs. Alternatively, you may wish to enjoy an off-grid rural hideaway in one of the estate’s Shepherd Huts, with their wood burners, bijou dining areas and king-sized beds all helping to create a wonderful rustic experience. >>

Right: Based on the 2,250 Kelling Estate, The Pheasant is one of The Coaching Inn’s newest flagship hotels in the company’s portfolio.

An afternoon tea option is available with optional Silver Reign British sparkling wine... and in respect of an after-dinner digestif, may we suggest The Pheasant’s own bespoke blend of gin!

>> The Pheasant also has a restaurant providing a stylish and intimate setting for dining as well as a light and airy orangery, each featuring seasonal menus.

Dining at The Pheasant

A brunch menu plus British oysters, lunchtime staples and artisan sandwiches will ensure daytime diners are satisfied, whilst in the evening

there’s a range of grazing options, plus starters and seasonal mains including locally-sourced venison, braised pork belly and smoked monkfish tail with bean cassoulet. Dessert options include a dark chocolate delice. There is also a dedicated Sunday lunch menu with a choice of roasts including sirloin of beef.

In addition, an afternoon tea option is available, with optional Silver Reign British sparkling wine, and in respect of an after-dinner digestif, may we suggest The Pheasant’s own bespoke blend of gin inspired by the Norfolk coastline and infused with samphire.

Meanwhile, tea at The Pheasant is courtesy of Tea Pigs and its coffee is a bespoke blend from the Norfolk Coffee Company, based in nearby Salle. Both are ideal with The Pheasant’s homemade ‘cake of the day’ or a selection of pastries, croissants and scones available in The Orangery or bar.

Plenty To Enjoy

There’s plenty to enjoy whilst on the North Norfolk Coast, as you’ll discover over the page with a few of our favourite tourism highlights. n

THE PHEASANT, AT KELLING, NORFOLK

Dining: 70 seater restaurant plus 30-seater Orangery and dedicated bar.

Hotel: 32 bedrooms with Classic, Superior and Deluxe grades.

Two new Shepherd’s Huts with oak floors, wood burners and clawfoot bath/WC as well as a dedicated dining area. Both lodges are set within idyllic woodland.

Contact: The Pheasant Hotel, Coast Road, Kelling, Holt NR25 7EG. Tel: 01263 588382. www.pheasanthotelnorfolk.co.uk.

NORTH NORFOLK EXPLORING

RELIVE THE AGE OF STEAM IN SHERINGHAM

Rediscover the warm scent of coal on a crisp spring morning with a visit to the North Norfolk Railway which runs from the smart Victorian seaside resort of Sheringham to the Georgian town of Holt through the county’s most stunning coastal scenery.

Operated almost entirely by volunteers from all walks of life, the line is East Anglia’s premier heritage railway.

Steam and heritage diesel trains transport passengers on an 11 mile return journey past some of Norfolk’s stunning scenery. Steam trains run daily from 11th to 19th February and daily from 1st April to 30th October and the website has details of timings and events like the railway’s driver experiences, dining events, ‘murder mystery’ evenings and fish ‘n’ chip trains.

See www.nnrailway.co.uk.

Seal Spotting on the North Norfolk Coast

THE COASTLINE around the Wash is rich in wildlife, including grey seals. Colonies are growing each year and they look adorable, especially with their young pups, although this is when they’re most territorial so the best way to appreciate

the animals and to avoid subjecting them to distress is to enjoy them from a little further away, courtesy of a seal-watching trip from Morston Quay. Beans Boats have been offering the service for 50 years.

See www.beansboattrips.co.uk.

SEA LIFE CENTRE

Another way to discover marine life in the North Norfolk coast is with a visit to Hunstanton’s Sea Life Centre. Sharks, seals, penguins, tropical fish, plus underwater viewing of over 30 different species thanks to the attraction’s 187,000 litre ocean tunnel. www.visitsealife.com.

If you’ve enjoyed a great day out whilst staying at one of our Coaching Inns, we’d love to hear about your experience! Let us know at office@innmail.co.uk

Experience Glassmaking in Fakenham

If you’ve ever wanted to try glassblowing, just 20 minutes from each of our Norfolk Coaching Inns is Langham Glass, which offers the chance to watch demonstrations or have a go at creating bowls, glasses or vases and see how the studio’s glass artists work. See www.langhamglass.co.uk.

NORFOLK LAVENDER

HEAVEN SCENT and a wonder to behold, the lavender fields of Norfolk look at their best just prior to harvest in late July and into August. Located three miles south of Hunstanton, Norfolk Lavender comprises nearly 100 acres and was founded in 1932. See www.norfolk-lavender.co.uk.

VISIT THE SANDRINGHAM ESTATE

COMPRISING 8,000 HECTARES, Sandringham is the Royal Family’s Norfolk estate. Purchased by Queen Victoria in 1862, the estate is open to the public with mature parkland to enjoy, Sandringham Shop and Restaurant, plus the property itself which is open from April to October. Eight ground floor rooms can be viewed, with decor and contents largely unchanged from the Edwardian era. See www.sandringhamestate.co.uk.

MOORLAND HOTEL Welcome to Haytor’s Newly Refurbished!

A spectacular landscape hewn from granite and 280,000,000 years in the making, Haytor is an impressive vista best viewed from The Coaching Inn Group’s Moorland Hotel...

OVER 280,000,000 years ago, the dramatic granite landscape of Haytor was formed, over 450 metres at its highest point and overlooking the whole of Dartmoor and the county of Devon.

90 years ago – on land close to the National Trust’s Buckland Abbey and the scenic Drake’s Trail – The Moorland Hotel was created and very little of its spectacular scenery has changed over the years. Still the granite rocks and mossy outcrops with their wild ponies and even wilder landscape make for an impressive backdrop that’s beloved by walkers, cyclists and those who just love being surrounded by dramatic landscapes.

The Moorland Hotel came into the ownership of The Coaching Inn Group in 2022 and became one of its Signature inns thanks to its setting, within 11 acres, as well as the warmth of its welcome and its appeal to visitors who love the landscape and its abundance of cows, sheep and horses grazing wild.

Dining

& Drinking

With so many walkers, cyclists, photographers and nature lovers visiting the area, creating a robust menu for guests both in the daytime and for evening service was essential. Happily, the kitchen brigade have done just that with two really exciting menus. >>

Right: The Moorland Hotel is set in 11 acres adjacent to Dartmoor National Park.

>> During the daytime, the Tin Pickle & Rhum brasserie comprises brunch, small plates and everyday staples such as chef’s ‘pie of the day,’ fish ‘n’ chips and Moorland Burger.

During evening service slow-cooked beef brisket, sea bass and tomahawk pork chop main courses are offered alongside homemade desserts like honey cheesecake panna cotta and chocolate cone with hazelnuts and macerated berries. If you’re enjoying a pre-dinner drink, do try the Moorland’s own bespoke Haytor Gin.

Accommodation

The Moorland Hotel has 36 bedrooms, all beautifully appointed and including some dog-friendly rooms, and a spacious deluxe suite with sitting area and views over the hotel’s gardens.

Famous Faces

Over its 90 year history, the hotel has attracted a four-AA star award for its accommodation and a rosette for its cuisine. It also attracted literary fame as a young author, Agatha Christie wrote her very first novel at the place. It was the book which introduced the world to Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot

During the making of the 1953 film The Knights of the Round Table the hotel hosted Ava Gardner as it stood in for the location of Arthur’s court. Camelot may have been the home of King Arthur, but for anyone wishing to visit one of the most memorable landscapes in Britain The Moorland Hotel remains fit for a king and truly legendary in its own right. It has a spectacular setting and offers only the highest standard of modern hospitality. n

THE MOORLAND HOTEL NEWTON ABBOT

Dining: Conservatory Restaurant offering an à la carte menu and near-panoramic views of Dartmoor. In-house pianist on Friday evenings. Tinpickle & Rhum dining room with evening dining including grazing options, oysters, and eight seasonal main courses. Dedicated lunch, and Sunday lunch menu plus bar menu.

Hotel: 36 beautifully refurbished bedrooms with Classic, Superior and Deluxe grades, some dog-friendly.

Contact: The Moorland Hotel Haytor, Newton Abbot TQ13 9XT. Tel: 01364 661142. www.mhd.coachinginngroup.co.uk.

Forest Park Hotel

BROCKENHURST, NEW FOREST

Visited by royalty and former US presidents, Forest Park Hotel, close to the village of Brockenhurst, enjoys an idyllic and leafy setting...

The New Forest remains one of the most idyllic and remarkable places in Britain, a 71,000 acre Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) occupied since the Bronze Age. Designated a Royal Forest in 1079 and as a National Park in 2005, it’s a leafy idyll which attracts nearly 15,000,000 visitors every year.

Right in the heart of the New Forest is the village of Brockenhurst, home to just over 3,500 people and Forest Park Hotel was created on the site of a country house called Lower Aimers in 1887. The property became a hotel in 1901 and more recently it was purchased by

The Coaching Inn Group in 2022, coinciding with a £2m refurbishment of the hotel’s 40 bedrooms and communal areas.

Famous Faces

A few years after becoming a hotel, Forest Park was to receive former US president Theodore Roosevelt when he visited the country as a special representative for the state funeral of King Edward VII in 1910. Shortly after this the hotel was requisitioned as a military hospital and in November 1914 – soon after the first cohort of wounded Indian soldiers arrived at Brockenhurst –they were visited by King George V, Emperor of India, and Queen Mary. >>

FOREST PARK HOTEL, BROCKENHURST

Dining: The Inn at Forest Park for drinks and The Acorn Restaurant are open seven days. Afternoon teas available Monday-Saturday. Dedicated menu with lots of local ingredients. Hotel: 40 newly refurbished bedrooms. Classic, Superior and Deluxe grades plus Deluxe Suite with private balcony. Contact: Forest Park Hotel, Rhinefield Road, Brockenhurst SO42 7ZG. Tel: 01590 622844, www.forestpark-hotel.co.uk.

ENJOYING THE NEW FOREST

The area’s best attractions and activities

The Beaulieu Motor Museum

National motor museum with over 280 vehicles plus motoring artefacts. Victorian house and gardens to explore too. www.beaulieu.co.uk

Buckler’s Hard Village & Museum

Discover the history of this unique 18th century shipbuilding village founded as a free port for the trading of sugar. www.bucklershard.co.uk

Paulton’s Park, Peppa Pig World

Cartoon pig-themed family attraction ideal for pre-schoolers… also beloved by former PM Boris Johnson! www.paultonspark.co.uk

New Forest Wildlife Park

Friendly faces and diverse creatures across 25 acres with nearly 50 species. www.newforest wildlifepark.co.uk

>> Forest Park reopened as a hotel in 1920 and over 100 years on the hotel’s appeal is its 21st century hospitality with the provision of modern comfort in an environment rich in Edwardian charm.

Food & Drink

An evening menu comprises 10 seasonal mains from loin of venison to duo of lamb, plus grill options including 35-day aged fillet steak with chunky chips and vine tomatos, or the Forest Park burger, created on site from prime steak mince. Natural and beignet oysters are available too, as is a selection of grazing dishes and starters.

Lunchtime dining is via a dedicated menu with small plates, lunchtime staples and sandwiches with a dedicated afternoon tea menu, and a Sunday lunch menu with a choice of roasted meats.

The hotel offers some of England’s finest wines created locally at Brook’s Hill Winery, and there’s a range of Forest Park bespoke spirits including Brock Gin, created with New Forest botanicals

By way of an accompaniment the hotel offers some of England’s finest wines created locally at Brook’s Hill Winery, together with a range of Forest Park bespoke spirits including Brock Gin, created with native botanicals sourced from nearby woodland. Even puddings are accompanied by the area’s Giggi’s, makers of award-winning ice cream.

Signature rooms feature super-premium linens and top of the range mattresses over super king-sized beds, plus Harrogate Spa bathroom products and New Forest Tea and Coffee in your room.

With coaching inn luxury against a backdrop of ancient woodland, abundant wildlife and spectacular scenery, Forest Park is guaranteed to provide a relaxing, memorable and idyllic place to enjoy one of England’s most beautiful areas. n

Left: Afternoon tea in the beautiful grounds of Brockenhurst’s Forest Park is a real treat, especially with optional fizz!

Below: The hotel is over 100 years old and rich in Edwardian style, set in acres of mature grounds within the New Forest.

Below: The hotel offers 40 bedrooms including ones with private balconies.

TALBOT at Malton The

According to The Sunday Times, Malton in Yorkshire is one of the best places to live in the country, winning a public vote to that effect in both 2017 and 2018 but making the shortlist ever since. Well, we can’t provide the opportunity for permanent relocation but you’re welcome to visit The Talbot, right in the heart of the town, to appreciate all that Malton has to offer.

Food & Drink

Butchery and game, deli goods, fish merchants and fruit and veg from family firm Paley’s... it’s all here, present and correct, along with distilleries and gelato in Talbot Yard food court, plus a range of restaurant cafés and tea rooms.

Little wonder that the town has been designated the ‘food capital’ of Yorkshire, and that does rather set a precedent for the standard of food and drink you can expect at The Talbot during your stay. >>

THE TALBOT, MALTON, NORTH YORKSHIRE

Dining: Dining in the hotel’s restaurant and bar area plus afternoon tea options including Tattinger Champagne afternoon tea.

Hotel: 26 en suite bedrooms with Georgian influences and high ceilings. Classic, Superior and Deluxe, including some rooms with four-poster beds.

Contact: The Talbot Hotel, Yorkersgate, Malton, North Yorkshire, YO17 7AJ. Tel: 01653 639096. www.talbotmalton.co.uk.

The Talbot also has four-poster rooms that take full advantage of the 17th century building with its lofty Georgian ceilings, elaborate cornices and period fireplaces...

>> Oysters, grazing dishes, seasonal mains and quality pub restaurant-inspired staples are present and correct, with a dedicated lunch menu, Sunday lunch menu and afternoon tea available as well.

Food & Drink

Classic, superior and deluxe rooms are available including characterful deluxe four-poster rooms taking full advantage of the 17th century building with its lofty Georgian ceilings, elaborate cornices and period fireplaces.

Work Up An Appetite

To work up an appetite, families will love the proximity of theme park Flamingo Land, less than 10 miles away, plus 1940s museum Eden Camp and the incredible landscape of the North York Moors national park. Plan a visit and enjoy a warm welcome and great food in a truly stunning setting. n

PREMIUM The Collection

Characterful, with touches of luxury, the rooms in our Premium Collection hotels are designed to give our guests an elevated experience whilst staying with us. Our rooms include Nespresso Coffee Machines, Roberts Radios, H2K of Harrogate bathroom products and mineral water as standard. All-day dining and beverage options are varied and vibrant, with local produce at the heart of chef-driven menus...

The King’s Head, Richmond

White Hart Royal, Moreton in Marsh

The Feathers, Ledbury

King’s Arms & Royal, Godalming

Tudor House, Tewkesbury

Wynnstay, Oswestry

The White Horse, Romsey

KING’S HEAD

The Richmond, North Yorkshire

Enjoy a visit to ‘our place in the Dales,’ with a warm welcome and lots of beautiful countryside guaranteed when you enjoy a visit to The King’s Head in Richmond, North Yorkshire…

IT ’S FOR A SOUND REASON that Yorkshire is referred to as ‘God’s own county.’ With its expansive skies, undulating hills, fresh air and breathtaking scenery it’s one of the most revered areas of Britain, and if there’s one part of Yorkshire that encapsulates its essence so well, that area is the North Yorkshire Dales.

Richmond is right next to the River Swale, home to over 8,500 people it’s as delightful a town as you could ever hope to visit, with its Georgian architecture and busy Market Place.

The town’s rich history is woven into every cobblestone street, charming alleyway, and magnificent landmark. Richmond was founded by the Normans in 1071 and takes its name from the French term ‘riche mont,’ meaning ‘strong hill.’ The town’s strategic location atop a hill made it a stronghold, and this is evident in the well-preserved Richmond Castle. Today, that castle also includes the ‘Cockpit Gardens’ which offer stunning views over the Dales, and plenty of opportunity to work up an

Constructed in 1720, the hotel is a Grade II listed building which came into The Coaching Inn Group family back in June 2016, reopening after a full refurbishment and offering modern hospitality in an historic setting. >>

appetite before returning to the King’s Head Hotel.

Above: The bar and coffee lounge at The King’s Head is ideal for those seeking morning coffee, lunch or evening dining or a drink.

>> In the daytime there’s a menu of brunch, sandwich and small plate options as well as a selection of more substantial dishes which are also available during evening service for residents and non-residents alike. These include a popular ‘pie of the day’ and fish ‘n’ chips plus the King’s Head burger and Picanha steak.

On Sundays too there’s a really robust offering of lunch with roast beef, loin of pork and chicken supreme all served with mash and roast potatoes and big, chunky Yorkshire puddings.

Alternatively, there’s an authentic afternoon tea experience available with optional Prosecco.

The King’s Head’s beautiful Georgian architecture, such as its high ceilings, lends itself nicely to creating a sense of space and comfort in each of the hotel’s 24 bedrooms. Classic and Superior rooms are comfortable and wellappointed whilst the hotel’s Deluxe room grade provides guests with their own sitting area and super-king beds.

Guests are also spoilt for choice for days out in the area, with The River Swale Waterfalls and Richmond Racecourse nearby, and Easby Abbey just a short drive from the hotel. Keep an eye out too for the town’s Georgian festival, usually held in July with a range of events and activities celebrating the town’s heritage. n

“Richmond is in the ‘Coast-to-Coast’ walkers’ guide written by famous travel writer Alfred Wainwright...”

THE KING’S HEAD IN RICHMOND

Dining: Coffee lounge downstairs with patisserie and artisan sandwich menu. Hotel: 24 newly refurbished bedrooms with Classic, Superior & Deluxe tiers.

Contact: The Kings Head Hotel, Market Place, Richmond, North Yorkshire, DL10 4HS. Tel: 01748 850220. www.kingsheadrichmond.co.uk. kingshead@innmail.co.uk.

GOLDEN Fleece The

All comforts great and small are afforded to customers of Thirsk’s Golden Fleece, a comfortable coaching inn offering a warm Yorkshire welcome...

PICTURE A YORKSHIRE TOWN and there’s a good chance that the place you’re imagining – quintessentially warm and welcoming, pretty with lots of bucolic countryside surrounding it –bears a strong resemblance to Thirsk

Home to about 5,000 people, the town has the Cod Beck waterway trickling through it and is also home to Thirsk Racecourse, making it popular with fans of flat racing. The course hosts around 15 fixtures between April and September including Ladies Day which will be held on Saturday 7th September 2024.

On the other side of Thirsk is the North York Moors National Park with over 550 square miles of parkland established as a protected area in 1952. Less than half an hour from The Golden Fleece is the stunning site of Rievaulx Abbey described by Cistercian monk St Aelred as offering ‘everywhere peace, everywhere serenity.’

Less peaceful is the life of a country vet in Yorkshire. The number of farms and four-legged patients mean life is never

dull for those who keep all creatures –great and small – fit and healthy. Indeed the most famous vet of them all was James Wight, who’s better known as James Herriot and whose connections are celebrated in the town just opposite the Golden Fleece - see over the page for more details.

>>

THE GOLDEN FLEECE THIRSK, N/YORKSHIRE

Dining: ’Eatery’ concept with 60 seats, plus coffee shop, bar area and an additional bar to the front. Outside dining area recently refurbished.

Hotel: 26 newly refurbished en suite rooms; Classic, Superior and Deluxe, including some rooms with four-poster beds.

Contact: The Golden Fleece, Market Place, Thirsk YO7 1LL. Tel: 01845 523108. www.goldenfleecehotel.com.

Left: The Golden Fleece was built in the 16th century and overlooks the cobbled market place of Thirsk, home to 5,000 people.

- THE GOLDEN FLEECE, THIRSK -

Nestling between Yorkshire’s Dales and Moors, The Golden Fleece is comfortable and joyous...

>> It’s thought that James Wight would pop across to The Golden Fleece for a drink with colleagues after work. We wonder what he’d make of it now with the hotel’s thoroughly up-to-date menu of bistro dishes, such as confit duck leg served with mustard seed relish and braised pork belly, as well as classic pub-inspired dishes from fish ‘n’ chips to The Fleece Burger with its 4oz patty, ham hock, brioche bun and skinny fries.

Alternatively visitors can enjoy a traditional tiered afternoon tea or in the warmer months, stone-baked pizzas.

With 26 newly refurbished bedrooms including rooms with four-poster beds overlooking Thirsk you’ll be assured of a good night’s sleep. If you’re lucky, you’ll also get to stay in the Kathleen Hall Suite, named after a veteran housekeeper

at the Golden Fleece who often remarked that the room was her favourite.

With lots to do in the area, beautiful scenery and the very warmest of welcomes

The Golden Fleece, between Dales and Moors, is a true place of comfort and happiness. n

Image: www.bbc.co.uk.

ALL CREATURES GREAT & SMALL

Thirsk is the home of James Herriot, the semi-fictional Yorkshire vet based on James Alfred Wight...

Thirsk vet James Herriot finally got his ‘happy ever after,’ marrying Helen in January 2024’s fourth season of the TV series All Creatures Great and Small.

The series is based on the writings of James Alfred Wight, better known under his literary identity of James Herriot. The vet was raised in Sunderland and moved to Thirsk after completing his training in 1940.

James immediately fell in love with the countryside and with Yorkshire, and composed his memoirs If They Could Only Talk, and It Shouldn’t Happen To A Vet, before writing Vet In Harness and finally All Creatures Great & Small.

His books were turned into a TV series starring Christopher Timothy in 1978 and rebooted in 2020.

The author and vet’s legacy is celebrated in the town at The World of James Herriot, opposite The Golden Fleece. Visitors can walk through the vet’s fully-restored 1940s home and surgery in Thirsk, see the original Austin 7 car the vets used to travel to the area’s farms and discover how both the 1970s and 2000 series were filmed in the property.

FEATHERS IN HELMSLEY WELCOME

Delightful surroundings, lots of history and plenty of delicious food and drink. Alongside a warm welcome, these are the hallmarks of The Feathers in the market town of Helmsley!

Stick around until Sunday lunchtime as The Feathers serves its overnight-roasted topside of beef with duck fat roasties and a whopping Yorkshire pudding... it’s a real treat and very popular with locals!

>> NORMALLY the presence of mice in a hotel would be alarming, but at The Feathers in Helmsley they’re a familiar and welcome sight... of course, they are carved into the wood and therefore pose no cause for concern.

The Feathers was created in 1959 when a local builder combined two cottages and commissioned local furniture maker Bob ‘Mouseman’ Thompson to create the bar and furniture. The latter incorporated his signature carvings into the coaching inn adding a little extra joy and character.

Speaking of joy, Helmsley is a pretty town on the edge of the North York Moor just five minutes from the Cistercian Rievaulx Abbey and two minutes walk from the 900-year old Helmsley Castle.

Fittingly the National Centre for Birds of Prey is just a few minutes away too with a few feathers of its own.

Whilst staying at the hotel you’ll enjoy 25 rooms beautifully refurbished and a courtyard that’s a real sun trap on warmer days, for al fresco dining.

During the cooler months a cosy welcome is assured and underwritten by a roaring open fire and a wonderful selection of dishes created by the hotel chefs.

These include a Sunday lunch option with overnight roasted topside of beef and duck fat roasties. Save room for pudding too as The Feathers sources its ice creams from local family business Ryeburn, winners of the National Ice Cream Awards.

THE FEATHERS, HELMSLEY, NORTH YORKSHIRE

Dining: Comfortable Feversham

Bar and coffee lounge with range of local ales. Atrium restaurant provides an ‘eatery’ menu with grazing dishes, à la carte starters, seasonal mains, classic dishes and salads. Sunny courtyard for warmer months too.

Hotel: 25 bedrooms with both Classic and Superior grades..

Weddings & Events: Newly refurbished Rydale Room can accommodate functions for up to 120 guests (dining).

Contact: The Feathers, Market Place, Helmsley, North Yorkshire YO62 5BH Tel: 01439 770275. www.feathershotelhelmsley.co.uk. feathers@innmail.co.uk.

IT ’S ONE OF the newest hotels within The Coaching Inn Group family but The Crown in Boroughbridge is no stranger to hospitality. Created in the 18th century it was transformed from a Manor House into a hotel by judge and MP William Tancred and today commands a Grade II listing as a building with lovely period details from its cornices to lovely large bay windows.

In 2002 The Coaching Inn Group treated the hotel to a complete refurbishment which saw a total redesign of the building’s 37 bedrooms as well as its bar and communal areas.

The refurbishment also saw the creation of a new restaurant which now offers a comprehensive menu for both daytime and evening customers.

Options include seasonal mains from a haunch of venison and ale-braised oxcheek, to every day staples like Picanha steak and grilled Cumberland sausage and mash. There’s a robust Sunday lunch offering too as well as the option of a traditional tiered afternoon tea.

Working up an appetite at The Crown is never a problem as the hotel also has its

own leisure club, with a 12 metre swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room plus a fully-equipped gym.

Boroughbridge is surrounded by breathtaking North Yorkshire countryside.

The town is the perfect base for exploring the lush rolling hills of Nidderdale...

Qualified personal trainers are on hand to ensure guests exercise safely and get the most out of their activity. Of course, the leisure club is available to both residential and local guests enjoying The Crown.

Exploring The Area

Boroughbridge is surrounded by breathtaking North Yorkshire countryside. The town is the perfect base for exploring the nearby Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife-watching.

The lush, rolling hills and scenic waterways make it an excellent destination for those who appreciate the beauty of the great outdoors.

THE CROWN HOTEL, BOROUGHBRIDGE

Dining: Dining in the hotel’s restaurant and bar area plus afternoon tea options including one with Yorkshire ginger parkin

Hotel: 37 en suite bedrooms with Classic, Superior and Deluxe, including some rooms with four-poster beds.

Contact: The Crown Hotel, Horsefair, Boroughbridge, North Yorkshire YO51 9LB Tel: 01423 322328. www.crownhotelboroughbridge.co.uk.

Boroughbridge’s proximity to the River Ure also makes it a popular spot for fishing and boating, offering tranquil moments for those looking to unwind by the crystal clear and pretty waterways.

The riverbanks of Boroughbridge are perfect for leisurely walks, cycling or for simply enjoying the serene atmosphere.

Just ten minutes from the town, too, is Harrogate. Throughout the year it enjoys numerous events that draw visitors from far and wide like The Great Yorkshire Show, The Harrogate Flower Show, and The Harrogate International Festival.

A vibrant cultural scene and the picturesque 17-acre Grade II listed Valley Gardens provide a parkland plus themed gardens, floral displays and historic buildings, all available to enjoy just a short distance from The Crown. n

HISTORY IN OUNDLE at

THE TALBOT

The Coaching Inn Group’s historic property in Northamptonshire has a fascinating connection to Queen Mary

CARRYING A GRADE I LISTING,

The Talbot in Oundle enjoys a status shared by only 3% of all the listed buildings in the country. That makes it all the more remarkable that the precious building has been so well adapted over the years to serve as a coaching inn.

It’s thought that the building’s previous purpose was to accommodate a charitable organisation called The Guild of Our Lady of Oundle, with a timber-framed structure being given the current façade when it was renovated in 1626. It may also have been at the same time as the Tabred or Tabard’s name was changed to Talbot and it became a coaching inn.

Rather more recently, The Coaching Inn Group purchased The Talbot in 2009 and three years later invested over £1.3m in its refurbishment, creating a 34-bedroom hotel with restaurant with a lovely walled terrace for those seeking to enjoy al fresco drinks, coffee or a patisserie treat in the summer months.

Oundle itself is a charming market town located in the historic county of Northamptonshire. Nestled on the banks of the River Nene this picturesque town is known for its rich history, architectural beauty, and vibrant community.

The town’s history dates back to Roman times and evidence of its past is woven into the very fabric of the town. One of its most iconic landmarks is Oundle School, a prestigious independent school founded in 1556. The school’s historic architecture, matches the beauty of the

THE TALBOT HOTEL’S ROYAL CONNECTION

The grand staircase within The Talbot was recovered from Fotheringhay Castle when it was destroyed in 1625, and installed in the hotel.

The oak stairs are the very ones that Mary, Queen of Scots descended as she was escorted to her execution in the Castle’s Great Hall in 1587.

It’s also thought that the windows of Fotheringhay Castle’s Great Hall were recovered and installed in the hotel too.

Take a look at the newel post of the staircase and you’ll see an indentation thought to have been made when Mary dug her signet ring into the timbers. Another legacy of the Queen is a pair of portraits which hang in the hotel, including one by Charles Edward Stewart (1887–1938) showing a despairing Mary seated at a table, resigned to her fate. n

The Talbot Hotel offers modern hospitality, but in a wonderful historic setting with lots of character...

hotel itself, with the stunning Oundle School Chapel adding to the look and feel of a small, friendly historic market town that visitors enjoy.

The town centre is a bustling hub with a thriving market, boutique shops, cosy cafes, and traditional pubs. Oundle’s markets are a highlight for both residents and visitors offering a range of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and antiques. The town’s lively community spirit is often on display during these market days.

Nearby you’ll find Barnwell Country Park, a tranquil retreat where you can enjoy nature at its finest, and the city of Peterborough with great shopping, and Ferry Meadows country park. In the summer months the gardens of Elton Hall are also worth a visit with beautiful topiary, an Edwardian flower garden and orangery.

A historic look but with thoroughly modern hospitality, a visit to The Talbot is highly recommended! n

THE TALBOT HOTEL, OUNDLE, NORTHANTS

Dining: À la carte menu available both in the daytime and for evening dining. Eatery restaurant, 15 seater Oak Table area and garden dining. Hotel: 34 en suite bedrooms, all individual in design and feel.

Contact: The Talbot Hotel, New Street, Oundle, Northamptonshire PE8 4EA Tel: 01832 273621. www.thetalbot-oundle.com. talbot@innmail.co.uk.

A Teatime Treat at Bakewel’s

RUTLAND ARMS

A beautiful town with stone buildings and a teatime treat, it’s no wonder the Georgians were also fond of Bakewell and its spa town sibling Buxton. Today it’s home to our comfortable coaching inn, The Rutland Arms...

Derbyshire is a pretty stunning county overall, but its undisputed stars are the towns of Bakewell and Buxton, situated about 10 minutes from one another.

Buxton is a spa town established in the medieval era and beloved by the Georgians. It’s even mentioned in Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice... little wonder the area’s heritage and Bakewell’s sheer beauty is popular with tourists.

Bakewell Tart

The town is mostly associated with its eponymous pudding which it’s thought originated at the Rutland Hall Hotel when its landlady in 1820 left instructions for her cook to prepare a jam tart, only for the cook to mess up the recipe. Given that jam tarts aren’t exactly tricky that must have proved a little concerning. The presence of eggs and almond paste over the jam, though, proved a revelation.

THE RUTLAND ARMS, IN DERBYSHIRE

Dining: Restaurant and bar dining. Afternoon teas and signature dessert in the form of Bakewell Pudding! Hotel: 32 bedrooms across the main hotel and courtyard building, with Classic, Superior and Deluxe room grades available including rooms with four-poster beds.

Contact: The Square, Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1BT.

Tel: 01629 812812

www.rutlandarmsbakewell.co.uk.

Email: www.rutland@innmail.co.uk.

Left: View along the River Wye, Caron Badkin; Bakewell by Peter Etchells. Shutterstock.

A combination of charm and character but a thoroughly modern guest experience are the hallmarks of hospitality at The Rutland Arms...

>> Today, Bakewell Pudding (distinct from Bakewell Tart) is still on the menu at The Rutland Arms and it’s available at one of three bakeries in the town – each one claiming to know the original recipe – if you’d like to take a couple home.

Food Heritage

Quite aside from the pudding itself there’s a range of seasonal main courses, pub restaurant-inspired staples and a Sunday lunch menu includes a sirloin of Derbyshire beef sourced from the area’s best butcher Owen Taylor. Afternoon teas are also available including one with Prosecco and a children’s afternoon tea too.

A Good Night’s Sleep

The hotel itself dates back to 1804 and came into The Coaching Inn Group family in February 2020 whereupon it was treated to a full refurbishment ensuring a blend of character and charm but offering a thoroughly modern experience for guests too. Some of its 32 bedrooms include four-poster beds, but all have plenty of style. And whilst in the area there’s plenty to do to tire yourself out, from exploring the town itself visiting Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall, or the magnificent rolling countryside surrounding the town, ideal for those keen to enjoy fresh air whilst walking or cycling. n

Image: www.chatsworth.org

CHATSWORTH HOUSE Visiting

Less than five miles from The Rutland Arms is the ancestral home of the Duke of Devonshire, Chatsworth House...

A stunning Grade I listed country home in the Derbyshire Dales, Chatsworth House is the country seat of the Duke of Devonshire, a peerage descended from the Cavendish family in the 15th century.

Construction of Chatsworth House began in 1687 and was completed in 1708 with later additions in the 19th century. Chatsworth is a 35,000-acre agricultural estate, with Chatsworth House itself and its 105-acres of formal grounds right at its centre.

The property has five floor, 81,000sq ft of accommodation and 300 rooms. Back in 2011/2012 it underwent a £14m restoration. The completion of this was recorded by the BBC for their series, Chatsworth, which aired the same year.

Visitors to the property can explore 25 state rooms plus works of art that span 4,000 years and include masterpieces by Rembrandt, as well as the estate’s working farmyard and adventure playground.

Take home some of the farm’s produce after a visit to the wonderful farm shop and enjoy handmade ice cream in The Parlour, dining in The Carriage House Café as well as seasonal events throughout the year.

n Visit Chatsworth House, Bakewell Derbyshire DE45 1PP. Call 01246 565300 or see www.chatsworth.org.

Above: Chatsworth House is just a five minute drive from The Rutland Arms hotel.

INN THE PAST

HISTORICAL FOOTNOTES FROM ACROSS THE COACHING INN GROUP ESTATE...

Royal Connections

FOTHERINGHAY CASTLE PROVIDED SOME OF THE MATERIALS USED TO CREATE OUNDLE’S TALBOT INN

MARY, QUEEN OF SCOTS descended the staircase of Fotheringhay Castle in 1587 to face her execution: she was ultimately beheaded in the Great Hall. Sometime after the castle was dismantled, it’s believed that the windows and the staircase down which Mary walked to her death were removed and installed in Oundle’s Talbot, complete with the imprint of Mary’s signet ring. Portraits of Queen Mary also hang in the hotel’s bar. www.talbothotel.co.uk.

Explore The Castle from The Castle

Where better to explore The Castle from but The Castle? Our Conwy coaching inn is located within the walls of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, built for King Edward I in the 13th century. The whole town is enclosed within the thick stone walls, and the curtilage is described as “one of the finest examples of late 13th century and early 14th century architecture in Europe." www.castlewales.co.uk.

A HAUNTED PORTRAIT IN MARKET HARBOROUGH

Are you the superstitious type? If so, best not move the portrait of John Fothergill. He was the author of An Innkeeper’s Diary and was apparently rather irascible, never afraid to give his hotel guests short shrift. His portrait hangs in the hotel and it’s said to be bad luck to move the picture, with bad luck befalling anyone who disturbs it! www.threeswans.co.uk.

Step back in time

EXPLORE HOME FRONT NOSTALGIA, AVIATION HERITAGE AND CLASSIC MOTORING MEMORABILIA

If you’re keen to explore life in the 1940s, there are some extremely interesting museums near a few of our sites that won’t disappoint.

If you’re staying in Lincolnshire, the Admiral Rodney in Horncastle is just a stone’s throw from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s hangar (pictured below) with its airworthy Lancaster, as well as East Kirkby’s Lincolnshire Aviation Centre.

To explore life on the home front, meanwhile, Boston’s White Hart Hotel is close to the excellent

We’ll Meet Again museum curated by Paul and Linda Britchford. Staying in the Cotswolds? Our White Hart Royal hotel in Moreton in Marsh is close to the Wellington Aviation Museum, and to the Cotswolds Motor Museum too.

Speaking of motoring, Brockenhurst’s Forest Park Hotel is near to the Beaulieu National Motor Museum with over 280 vintage cars and motorcycles on display. Exploring Britain’s heritage has never been so enjoyable!

Explore literary connections at The Moorland & Jamaica Inn…

Two of The Coaching Inn Group’s hotels can boast literary connections, making them an ideal pilgrimage for fans of the two authors concerned.

Around 1920, Newton Abbot’s Moorland Hotel welcomed a hitherto unknown writer who used the hotel to complete her first novel, called The Mysterious Affair. The identity of the author in question is less of a mystery now; Agatha Christie went on to write 33 novels featuring her character Hercule Poirot, plus many others. Meanwhile, The Jamaica Inn was a popular destination for gothic fiction writer Daphne du Maurier. A recreation of her study is on display at the Jamaica Inn, namesake of one of her novels which, alongside Rebecca, remains one of her most famous works. www.moorlandhoteldartmoor.co.uk. www.thejamaicainn.co.uk.

PAWS & RELAX

When we say that everyone’s welcome at your local Coaching Inn Group hotel, we really do mean everyone. Bring along your four-legged friend and they’ll enjoy dog-friendly accommodation guaranteed to make any tail wag!

The secret of hospitality is to look after your guests... but some guests have very particular needs. Anya the Maltese, for example, is often found propping up the bar in Malton’s Talbot Hotel and enjoys nothing more than a bowl of fresh water and a treat from Lindon’s Pet Shop as she catches up with the other regulars.

Accompanying Anya is Angela Egan who moved to the town just over 10 years ago. Angela is a dog fanatic and loves the fact that the whole of the town is especially dog-friendly. As for The Coaching Inn Group, most of the hotels within the family have dog-friendly rooms and are happy to accommodate your four-legged friend.

The Talbot in Malton though, is perhaps the most comprehensively dog-friendly hotel in the group, and has some great working partnerships with other businesses in the area. Perhaps that’s why, in 2019, when Angela nominated the town in The Dog Friendly Awards it beat 40 other towns and cities across the UK to be named Britain’s most dog-friendly town.

“It was a huge boost for the town and we were really proud,” says Angela. “Malton is famous for its food, of course, and it’s a friendly town, but if you’ve a dog with you during your visit you’re guaranteed to make some new friends very soon.”

“Because we live in the area we’re regulars at the hotel, and we’ve loved getting to know not just the other locals and the hotel’s guests, but their dogs too.”

There’s a designated area in the restaurant for those dining with a dog at their feet, and the hotel provides plush luxury dog beds for overnight canine guests along with welcome packs that include posh dog treats from local independent pet boutique Lintons.

The hotel’s extensive grounds are ideal for allowing dogs to stretch their legs, and the whole team can offer suggestions for local dog walking routes as well as advising which shops, pubs and restaurants are dog-friendly too.

More than that though, Angela serves as The Talbot’s own dog concierge, offering a range of services at the hotel from dog sitting to advising where to visit with your dog whilst in the local area.

“There are some really good local businesses within easy reach of the hotel,” says Angela. “In the past I’ve arranged pawdicures (beauty treatments for dogs) and arranged training sessions or photoshoots with our local trainer Charlie Clive and photographer Merry Counsel.”

“Guests often arrive on the train so being able to have all of the paraphernalia they need when they arrive – food, bed, bowls and so on – is really useful, but more fundamentally we don’t believe that anyone should have to leave their best friend behind when they travel.”

As well as providing a dog concierge at the hotel though, Angela also helps out and raises funds for two local charities, Rags to Riches (rehoming neglected Romanian street dogs) and rescue charity Miss Mollies.

She’s always keen to hear from those who are in a position to foster or even adopt a dog in need... and if you’re successful in finding your next four-legged friend, The Talbot will even treat you to a meal to congratulate your new friendship... which is guaranteed to make anyone’s tail wag!

Paws & Relax: A Special Invitation

Join us for a short break with your four-legged friend. We offer dog-friendly getaways including a delightful three-course dinner, a cosy and comfortable overnight stay in one of our dog-friendly rooms, a cooked breakfast and all dog charges included. Available at many of our Coaching Inn Group sites, see www.coachinginngroup.co.uk for details!

The Talbot Hotel is based in Malton, North Yorkshire. For more information see talbotmalton.co.uk.

Angela’s pet concierge and fostering services are available by calling 07545 077414.

Our Royal place in The Cotswolds, it’s

THE WHITE HART ROYAL

Surrounded by quintessentially English countryside and lovely stone buildings, The White Hart Royal in Moreton in Marsh is the perfect place to stay as you explore The Cotswolds...

Covering five counties and spanning about 800 square miles, the area known as The Cotswolds is regarded as one of the prettiest areas of England.

The White Hart Royal is located in the pretty market town of Moreton in Marsh with its population of 5,000 and with its stone buildings, the hotel is an ideal base from which to explore the Cotswolds or for a trip into Shakespeare’s Stratford upon Avon.

The hotel was created in the 16th century and enjoys a Grade II listing. It was visited by King Charles I in 1644, a memory emblazoned upon the innkeeper’s mind as the King was quite naughty and neglected to pay his bill! >>

Top: Market day in Moreton captured by Joyce Nelson, Shutterstock.

A visit to The White Hart Royal ensures you’re right in the heart of the quintessentially English Cotswolds...

>> Today, the hotel provides guests with the chance to enjoy one of its 28 comfortable rooms with their Classic, Superior and Deluxe grades. Recent additions include a new lounge for guests, with soaring ceilings and plush furnishings whilst the warmer months afford the opportunity to enjoy a lovely sheltered courtyard for al fresco drinks.

Dining & Drinks

Speaking of which, The White Hart Royal offers a menu of pub restaurant-

inspired staples plus grill options such as The Royal Burger and sirloin steak which can be enjoyed in the comfortable restaurant or in the hotel’s bar (overlooking the town’s market place) with its huge open fire and characterful flagstones.

In The Area

Since a visit to The White Hart Royal puts you right in the heart of the Cotswolds, we’re delighted to make a few suggestions (opposite) as to how to explore the area during your stay! n

THE WHITE HART ROYAL MORETON IN MARSH

Dining: Traditional snug bar with flagstones and open fireplace. Courtyard restaurant offering AA Rosette standard dining.

Hotel: 28 en suite rooms with Classic, Superior and Deluxe. Some dog-friendly rooms.

Contact: The White Hart Royal Hotel and Eatery, High St, Moreton in Marsh GL56 0BA. Tel: 01608 650731. www.whitehartroyal.co.uk whr@innmail.co.uk

The Cotswolds Wildlife Park

WELLINGTON AVIATION MUSEUM

Aviation fans will enjoy a visit to the Wellington Aviation Museum in Moreton-in-Marsh, with an extensive collection of RAF memorabilia and aviation art.

n Open from March until November, on Bourton Road, GL56 0HB, see www.wellingtonaviation.org.

Take a walk on the wild side whilst you’re in the Cotswolds with a visit to Burford’s Cotswolds Wildlife Park, established in 1970 and now home to lions, rhinos, zebras, as well as giraffes and with a treetop walkway you can enjoy these wonderful animals eye-toeye. The park’s walled gardens are home to penguins, meercats, parrots, otters, monkeys and many species of birds.Visitors can adopt an animal, become a keeper for the day and help the attraction’s efforts as a registered conservation charity.

n Burford OX18 4JP, 01993 823 006 or see www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk.

Batsford Arboretum

Home to a unique collection of some of the world’s most beautiful and rare trees, shrubs and bamboos spread across 60 acres. Enjoy early colour from the snowdrops, followed by spring-flowering bulbs and spectacular Japanese flowering cherries; escape the heat under the tree canopy in summer and be amazed by the outstanding autumn colour!

n Batsford, GL56 9AT, or see www.batsarb.co.uk.

The Cotswolds Distillery

If you enjoy a tipple, The White Hart Royal has a fine selection of spirits behind the bar. To delve a little deeper into how spirits are created though, a visit to Cotswolds Distillery is a must. Whisky blending and gin masterclasses, cocktail making and tours, plus the chance to take a bottle home too!

n See www.cotswoldsdistillery.com for details.

DISCOVER SHAKESPEARE

The White Hart Royal is just a short drive from Stratford-upon-Avon,which is home to Shakespeare’s birthplace on Stratford’s Henley Street, as well as the Royal Shakespeare Theatre on Waterside. A short drive away is Anne Hathaway's Cottage – the family home of the playwright’s wife-to-be – with its beautiful cottage gardens and orchards. n For a programme of events and more details, see www.shakespeare.org.uk or www.rsc.org.uk or call 01789 331111.

The Cotswolds Motor & Toy Museum

For motoring enthusiasts or those who enjoy revelling in nostalgia, a visit to The Cotswolds Motor & Toy museum is a must.

Two fabulous museums in one with 50 classic and vintage cars, as well as old and new toys from Scalextric and jigsaws to board games!

n Bourton-on-the-Water, GL54 2BY.

Telephone 01451 821255 or see cotswoldmotoringmuseum.co.uk.

TheFEATHERS in LEDBURY

To the west of the Malvern Hills, the market town of Ledbury is a Tudor-styled town with independent retailers and lots of character. It’s also home to The Feathers, our comfortable coaching inn which has just been awarded an AA rosette for the quality and consistency of its dining...

The locals of Ledbury have a love affair with literature. It’s little wonder as the poets John Masefield and Elizabeth Barret Browning both have connections with the pretty market town, home to just under 10,000.

The latter wrote Sonnet 43 which you’ll recognise from its opening stanza, ‘How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.’ Barret Browning is also remembered by an imposing Tudor-style clock tower in

the town created in 1895 and built to incorporate libraries, reading rooms and classrooms to improve literature among Victorians.

Opposite our Ledbury coaching inn is the town’s 17th century market house, surrounded by many independent businesses essential to ensure the town remains a thriving, friendly and busy community. It’s a pretty town and just as pretty when you leave its busy streets as the Malvern Hills are nearby too. >>

Left: The Feathers joined the Coaching Inn Group in 2018.

>> Whilst staying in Ledbury you’re just a five minute drive to Eastnor Castle with its 19th century castle, deer park, adventure playground for youngsters and its stunning grounds with an arboretum, lake and maze. If you’re a little more inclined towards adventure, the 5,000 acres of grounds are also home to the Eastnor Land Rover experience where you can test the fanciest new luxury off-roaders.

Working up an Appetite

By all means work up an appetite, since The Feathers has a popular menu of seasonal dishes. The quality of dining on offer at the coaching inn has been underwritten recently by the hotel’s new accolade of an AA rosette recognising the quality and consistency of its food.

including Donington rib-eye steak with chunky fat chips – fluffy on the inside and crisp outside – as well as lamb rump and everyday staples including a really good burger and fish ‘n’ chips.

Accommodation

Since The Feathers joined the Coaching Inn Group family in 2018 after two generations of custodianship under its previous owners, the company has treated The Feathers to a comprehensive refurbishment. Today all of that Tudor style and traditional character is the backdrop to comfortable rooms ensuring you enjoy a restful night and wake up in the morning ready to explore some really stunning English countryside. n

THE FEATHERS, LEDBURY IN HEREFORDSHIRE

Dining: Rosette-quality available in the restaurant and bar, with afternoon tea options, Sunday lunch and coffee shop cakes and pastries.

Hotel: 20 en suite bedrooms, including four-poster rooms, plus self-contained Eve’s Cottage with one bedroom.

Contact: The Feathers, High Street, Ledbury, Herefordshire HR8 1DS Tel: 01531 635266. www.feathers-ledbury.co.uk. enquiries@feathers-ledbury.co.uk.

Since The Feathers joined The Coaching Inn Group family back in 2018 the company has treated The Feathers to a comprehensive refurbishment including its 20 bedrooms and communal areas...

KING’S ARMS and Royal

in GODALMING, SURREY

IT ’S ALL ABOUT MOD CONS for guests staying at our coaching inns these days. Good Wi-Fi is a given, as is a comfy mattress, places to store your stuff when you make your room a home from home and of course the usual freeview TV and in-room tea and coffee facilities.

Back in 1881 though The King’s Arms & Royal in Godalming had a modern

convenience that today we take for granted: it was the first town not just in the country but in the world to offer the public access to electricity.

The town was sufficiently well-lit to show off Godalming’s 350 listed buildings among which is the hotel itself. Whilst there has been a coaching inn on the site since the 1300s it wasn’t

until 1639 that the hotel’s existence was first recorded and over a hundred years later in 1753 that the building’s Georgian frontage was added. The place was even visited by Tsar Peter the Great and later by European ‘royalty’ following the Battle of Trafalgar. Fortunately, today you don’t need a family crest to be treated like royalty whilst staying in Godalming >>

>> Following The King’s Arms & Royal joining The Coaching Inn Group family in May 2022 the hotel was treated to a comprehensive makeover of its 21 bedrooms and its restaurant and bar.

Delicious Dining

Along with the refurbishment of its communal areas, a new restaurant at The King’s Arms & Royal was also created with beef shin bourguignon as one of its seasonal mains and everyday staples on offer.

There’s a range of afternoon tea options, too, plus a coffee house menu with a signature roast created by Lincoln & York and tea courtesy of blender Teapigs.

Enjoying Godalming

Whilst in the area we recommend a visit to nearby Brooklands to indulge a love of British engineering or to Steam Dreams to relive the halcyon days of railways. For a more fast-paced adventure, theme park Chessington is nearby, too. n

THE KING’S ARMS & ROYAL, GODALMING, SURREY

Dining: Restaurant and bar dining, plus afternoon teas available in the hotel’s restaurant and bar.

Hotel: 21 newly refurbished bedrooms across three floors with Classic, Superior & Deluxe grades.

Contact: The King’s Arms & Royal, High Street, Godalming, Surrey, GU7 1EB.

Tel: 01483 421545. www.kingsarmsandroyal.co.uk. kingsarms.godalming@innmail.co.uk.

Right: The hotel joined The Coaching Inn Group in May 2022 and enjoyed a comprehensive refurbishment in 2023.

Grade II listed and one of 400 beautiful listed buildings in the market town of Tewkesbury, The Tudor House offers comfort and a very warm welcome...

TheTUDOR House

THE TUDOR HOUSE, TEWKESBURY

Dining: Available in the restaurant and bar with classics, seasonal mains, artisan sandwiches and afternoon tea options. Additional Sunday Lunch, children’s menu and Coffee House menus too.

Hotel: 25 bedrooms, with Classic, Superior and Deluxe grades available. Hotel newly refurbished in 2022.

Contact: The Tudor House Hotel High Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5BH. Tel: 01684 297755. www.tudorhousehotel.co.uk. tudorhouse.tewkesbury@innmail.co.uk.

>> Dating back to 1546 and enjoying a Grade II* listing, The Tudor House is one of 400 historic buildings in the market town of Tewkesbury, the medieval town nestling in the Cotswolds equidistant to the Severn and Avon.

Recently Refurbished

Back in February 2022 The Coaching Inn Group brought The Tudor House into its family and treated the venerable building to a £1m refurbishment, from its 25 bedrooms to its restaurant.

Whilst In The Area

The Tudor House is close to historic Tewkesbury Abbey (parts of which date back to 1102) whilst July see the town’s annual medieval festival with its

re-enactments and living history encampments. The same month sees the Water Festival with its evening procession of illuminated boats along the River Severn. Less than 20 minutes from the Jet Age Museum and about an hour from the Aerospace Bristol attraction, the hotel is the ideal place from which to explore Britain’s aviation heritage.

Food & Drink

And back at the hotel, having worked up an appetite, you’ll enjoy a delicious array of dishes from brunch options, a comprehensive lunch menu and afternoon tea during the daytime to an evening menu comprising seasonal mains, grill options and quality pub-restaurant inspired staples. n

WYNNSTAY in Oswestry The

A tale of two countries... is Oswestry in England, or Wales? Either way there’s no doubt though that The Wynnstay offers hospitality from the heart as a Coaching Inn Group hotel that’s truly full of Georgian character!

Where is Oswestry? Is it in England... or in Wales?

The official answer is that it’s almost entirely surrounded by Wales but it’s actually in Shropshire and so officially it’s English. What’s never been in doubt though, is that Oswestry enjoys a spectacular setting in the borderlands surrounded by some stunning scenery.

Historic Coaching Inn

Equidistant between Liverpool and Cardiff, Oswestry was historically a popular coaching inn town and The Wynnstay was created in 1727 and was more recently family-owned for three generations before coming into The Coaching Inn Group family in March 2022. At that time the hotel enjoyed a comprehensive refurbishment of its 31 bedrooms and its restaurants. >>

THE WYNNSTAY, OSWESTRY, SHROPSHIRE

Dining: Three restaurant areas and bars with a comprehensive menu comprising à la carte seasonal mains plus quality pub-restaurant inspired classics and afternoon teas.

Hotel: 31 en suite bedrooms with Classic, Superior and Deluxe grades.

Contact: Wynnstay Hotel, Church Street, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 2SZ. Tel: 01858 438300. www.who.coachinginngroup.co.uk. wynnstay@innmail.co.uk.

Above/Left: Three restaurants areas, each with a different feel.

PONTCYSYLLTE AQUEDUCT

Enjoying its status as a Unesco World Heritage site since 2009

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is a spectacular landmark crossing the River Dee and enjoys a Grade I listed status. It was designed by Thomas Telford in 1795, opening in 1805 with 18 spans, over 300 metres long and less than four metres wide. Today it’s managed by the Canal and River Trust with boat trips across the aqueduct available for visitors who don’t mind heights (it’s 40 metres up in the air!). For boat trips and hire, see www.pontcysyllte-aqueduct.co.uk.

The Wynnstay is close to the Unesco World Heritage site of Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, created by Thomas Telford and completed in 1805. It’s nearly 40 metres tall and over 300 metres long with 18 spans...

>> Wake up at The Wynnstay and the chances are you’ll enjoy views over Oswestry’s Crown Bowling Green.

You’ll also enjoy a very good daytime menu including breakfast and brunch options to set you up for a day exploring the borderlands. Later on there’s a choice of seasonal mains and everyday staples too, plus a ‘light and healthy’ selection and mix-and-match grazing and sharing options.

Exploring The Area

With full tummies you’re ready to explore nearby Pontcysyllte Aqueduct just a short drive away, or sites like Chirk Castle or Whittington Castle. The latter is less than 10 minutes from the hotel.

The 12-acre site dates back to the 12th century and is beautifully maintained by a dedicated team of volunteers working as the Whittington Castle Trust.

Throughout the year Oswestry is involved in many events from July’s Food & Drink festival to its agricultural show in August and autumn’s Hot Air Balloon Carnival, an event which sees over 20 balloons of different shapes and sizes take part in a very beautiful twilight display.

A beautiful setting, a warm welcome and lots to do in the area all help to ensure that The Wynnstay is a quintessential coaching inn, one that was even frequented by a young Queen Victoria back in 1889. n

The George IN DORCHESTER

Made famous by TV but made great by The Coaching Inn Group. The George in Dorchester is an ideal place from which to explore Oxfordshire and the Chiltern Hills...

Back in 1997, the world was introduced to the idyllic village of Midsomer... but all was not as it seemed.

Over the course of nearly 140 episodes, viewers would discover that the village had an alarmingly high mortality rate.

Fortunately it also had the most overworked detective in the Midsomer Constabulary, portrayed by John Nettles, who managed to solve all of the Midsomer Murders over 23 series.

Perhaps even more remarkably given the attrition rate the area is still home to about 1,000 people. It’s also more correctly identified as Dorchester on Thames in Oxfordshire.

A Classic Coaching Inn

Visitors keen to embark on a ‘Midsomer Murders’ pilgrimage can download a leaflet from the village’s website and the perfect place to stay during your visit is The George Hotel.

The coaching inn was built in the late 15th century and extended over the centuries to its current size, comprising 25 bedrooms and communal bar and restaurant.

The George Hotel came into The Coaching Inn Group family in 2022 and was treated to a comprehensive refurbishment creating comfortable bedrooms over Classic, Superior and Deluxe grades including rooms with four-poster and canopied beds with exposed beams and dedicated sitting areas. No matter what room you choose though, you’re guaranteed a blend of lots of style and character commensurate with the Coaching Inn Group’s portfolio of traditional hotels whilst providing

THE GEORGE HOTEL, DORCHESTER-ON-THAMES

Dining: Daytime and evening menu with Seasonal Mains, and pubrestaurant inspired Classic Mains. Hotel: 25 en suite bedrooms with Classic, Superior and Deluxe grades. Self-contained annexe The Cottage.

Contact: The George Hotel, High Street, Dorchester, Wallingford OX10 7HH.

Tel: 01865 340404.

www.george-dorchester.co.uk. george.dorchester@innmail.co.uk.

Close to The George is the Aston Martin Heritage Trust. The collection was established in 1998 but the history of the marque itself stretches back over 110 years. It’s a history explored at the museum though artefacts, exhibits and vehicles...

very comfortable and modern luxury accommodation.

Whilst in the Area

The George is just 20 minutes from Oxford – home to another TV detective, Morse – which means you’re close to the historic University with its grand buildings and walking tours, punting, and the nearby Bicester Village designer outlet shopping village.

Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum is also close by offering a world-class visitor experience founded in 1683 and including everything from Egyptian mummies to contemporary art, telling human stories across cultures and across time.

Close to The George too is the Aston Martin Heritage Trust. The collection was established in 1998 but the history of the marque itself stretches back over

110 years. That history is explored by way of a number of artefacts, exhibits and vehicles including the A3, which is the oldest surviving Aston Martin in the world.

If the natural world appeals, close to the hotel is The Hurst Meadow Trust which comprises 25 acres of historic and ecologically diverse meadows running past Dorchester’s medieval monastery.

A little further afield is the National Trust’s Watlington Hill chalklands and Chiltern Hills AONB with its red kites flying overhead and ancient woodlands.

Stunning countryside, waterways and beautiful towns and villages, Dorchester on Thames really is Oxfordshire at its best and The George really is an ideal base from which to explore one of the most remarkable places in England. n

Left: Select rooms at The George in Dorchester include four-poster beds or canopies plus spacious sitting areas.

IN ROMSEY WHITE HORSE THE

Located on The River Test, Romsey is home to medieval streets plus a Norman abbey and to the venerable 600 year old White Horse coaching inn

CLOSE TO ROMSEY is the 1,300-acre Broadlands Estate which was home to the 19th century Prime Minister Lord Palmerston and latterly to the Earls Mountbatten. It’s a popular destination for Royals such as Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, plus King Charles III when he married Diana, Princess of Wales and to William, Duke of Cambridge, when he married Catherine Middleton. All three royals spent part of their honeymoon at Broadlands and as it’s open to visitors on weekday afternoons in the summer the public can also enjoy the estate with its Palladian mansion and Capability Brown landscaped grounds.

The estate is the jewel in the crown of the Hampshire market town and one of the reasons it was described by The Guardian as ‘resoundingly, timelessly English.’

The same can be said of The White Horse, the timber frame of which dates back to the 1450s – although it’s believed a coaching inn existed on the site as far back as the 12th century.

The White Horse came into The Coaching Inn Group family in 2019 and enjoyed a complete refurbishment yielding 29 beautifully styled bedrooms and a fresh, light restaurant which enables the team to provide modern hospitality in a beautiful traditional setting.

Seasonal mains available to enjoy during our visit included duo of duck and charred venison plus a braised feather blade of beef served with creamed potatoes and parsnip crisps. Sunday lunch is a treat too, with a choice of mouthwatering roast dinners with huge Yorkshire puddings and pan gravy.

The White Horse’s deluxe suite is located on its own floor and includes a super king-size bed, walk-in wardrobe and large sitting area enuring luxury and privacy. Whilst in the area enjoy a visit to the medieval King John’s House, Mottisford Abbey with its walled kitchen garden and heritage roses, and Romsey Signal Box which has been fully restored and is designed to celebrate the age of steam. n

THE WHITE HORSE, ROMSEY, HAMPSHIRE

Dining: Restaurant and bar dining, plus afternoon tea available in the hotel’s restaurant.

Hotel: 29 bedrooms across the main hotel with Classic, Superior and Deluxe room grades available including loft rooms and the hotel’s flagship Deluxe Suites.

Contact: The White Horse Hotel, Market Place, Romsey SO51 8ZJ. Tel: 01794 337810. www.whitehorsehotelromsey.co.uk.

Left: Over 600 years old, The White Horse in Romsey provides a traditional setting for modern hospitality with 29 beautifully-styled rooms.

“Recently awarded two AA rosettes for its dining, The Bell Hotel was brought into The Coaching Inn Group family in 2019 and enjoyed a reinvention as a traditional coaching inn providing a thoroughly modern standard of hospitality thanks to its 23 bedrooms and delicious dining...”

BELL INN at Stilton The

The Bell Inn’s story is one of reinvention. The venerable coaching inn is thought to date back to 1500 although it’s probable that there was some kind of coaching inn on the site even before that.

One of the most commonly-frequented coaching inns on the Great North Road between London and Edinburgh, it often stabled up to 100 horses and was extremely popular during the 1700s and 1800s... until the railway era that all but wiped out its trade. Then in the era of the motor car, trade recovered until a bypass was created around the village in 1958, leading to the inn’s closure in 1964, only to be reopened again in the 1980s.

Most recently in 2019 The Bell Hotel was brought into The Coaching Inn Group family and enjoyed another

reinvention as a traditional coaching inn providing a thoroughly modern standard of hospitality thanks to its 23 bedrooms and delicious dining both during daytime and evening service.

Its namesake cheese is used to best effect on the menu, but production of Stilton is now restricted by Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) to certain areas of Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. You can, however purchase a range of artisan cheese to enjoy at home with a special cheese menu available at the inn.

Retire to bed at The Bell Hotel and you’ll enjoy beautiful rooms including ones with four-poster beds and with the modern, vibrant city of Peterborough and Rutland Water close by there’s plenty to do in the area no matter how long you’ll be staying. n

THE

BELL HOTEL, STILTON, CAMBRIDGESHIRE

Dining: Restaurant and bar dining. Afternoon Tea & Sandwich Menu. Dedicated cheese menu featuring Stilton from local suppliers.

Hotel: 23 bedrooms, with Classic, Superior and Deluxe room grades available.

Contact: Great North Road, Stilton, Peterborough PE7 3RA. Tel: 01733 241066. www.thebellstilton.co.uk. bell@innmail.co.uk.

Left: The hotel dates back to 1500, possibly even earlier but came into the custodianship of The Coaching Inn Group in 2019. Its 23 bedrooms have been given a full refurbishment.

CONWY’S CASTLE HOTEL

A truly unique coaching inn, located in a truly unique town not only home to its 13th century Grade I listed Conwy Castle, but to The Castle Hotel, offering a warm welcome and hospitality from the heart

THE 13TH CENTURY stone walls of Conwy Castle completely enclose the town and its 15,000 residents. Those who are born within the walls are referred to as Jackdaws.

Also within the walls of Conwy is another Castle, a 29 bedroom coaching inn created in 1884 with the merging of The Castle Hotel and its neighbour

The King’s Head. The expansion of the new Castle Hotel was designed to capitalise on Thomas Telford’s bridge, created in 1826 to make the journey from Chester to Holyhead faster.

When the hotel was remodelled in 1981 prominent artist John Dawson provided a number of oil paintings to the hotel,

many of which were reframed during a more recent update in 2005. Ten years later The Coaching Inn Group acquired the property and again updated the hotel to ensure modern hospitality within the beautiful old building.

As well as beautifully refurbished bedrooms the hotel offers delicious dining including an exceptional bistro steak with local butcher Poynton’s of Llandudno providing this wonderful meat.

The Castle’s bedrooms are beautifully styled with deluxe historic bedrooms and large suites available and of course many have views over Conwy Castle, the unique UNESCO World Heritage Site enjoying unrivalled preservation. n

THE CASTLE HOTEL CONWY, NORTH WALES

History: 17th century coaching inn renovated by the Coaching Inn Group in 2005.

Dining: Bar & Snug and main eatery with dedicated main, lunch, and dessert menus.

Hotel: 29 en suite rooms with Club, Superior, Superior Plus and deluxe suites. Four-poster beds available.

Contact: The Castle Hotel, High Street, Conwy, LL32 8DB. Tel: 01492 582800. www.castlewales.co.uk. castle@innmail.co.uk.

Located in Wels, it’s

THE SWAN

“Right in the centre of the city, The Swan Hotel is a beautiful 14th century coaching inn visited by guests including Henry VII, Prime Ministers Ramsay MacDonald and Winston Churchill plus George Bernard Shaw…”

THE SOMERSET CITY of Wells is watched over by the magnificent Wells Cathedral and its Bishop’s Palace to the south, and also by the Mendip Hills the area of outstanding natural beauty to the North.

So pretty is the city centre itself that the market square in 2017 was taken back to the 18th century in the TV series Poldark where it served as the hero’s Sawle village. Right in the centre of the city The Swan Hotel is a beautiful 14th century coaching inn visited by guests including Henry VII, Prime Ministers Ramsay MacDonald and Winston Churchill, plus author of Pygmalion, George Bernard Shaw.

Back in 2022 the hotel joined The Coaching Inn Group family and enjoyed a comprehensive makeover of its 50 bedrooms including its Cathedral Suite, luxuriously appointed with views over Wells Cathedral, plus sitting room, bathroom with roll-top bath and double monsoon shower, its gold gilded furniture and French-inspired décor.

Dining at The Swan means modern British food with locally-sourced

ingredients, seasonal mains and everyday staples. A brunch menu and lunchtime staples run alongside a dedicated Sunday lunch menu and provision of traditional afternoon tea.

Offering delicious dining, comfortable accommodation and the spectacular setting of Wells with its breathtaking Cathedral, Mendip Hills and Cheddar Gorge, The Swan Hotel really does provide a feast for every one of your senses.

THE SWAN HOTEL, WELLS, SOMERSET

Dining: Newly-refurbished restaurant utilising Somerset suppliers where possible and striving to source ingredients from a 25-mile radius.

Hotel: 50 en suite bedrooms comprising Classic, Superior and Deluxe rooms plus the availability of four-poster rooms. Cathedral Suite with sitting room and luxury bathroom.

Contact: Swan Hotel, Sadler Street, Wells Somerset BA5 2RX. Call 01749 836300 or see swanhotelwells.co.uk.

Left: Wells Cathedral, dating back to 1175, can be seen from many of The Swan’s rooms.

THE GEORGE AT AMESBURY

Located less than five miles away from historic Stonehenge, The George at Amesbury combines modern hospitality with the style and character of a coaching inn dating back to the 16th century...

The exact purpose of the creation of Stonehenge remains subject to debate. Nobody is quite sure why or how the arrangement of four-metre tall, 25 tonne stones were created.

Originally there were as many as 80 stones on the site, although only 52 of these remain. It’s believed their original purpose was astronomical or that they were intended to play a part in the ritual of the summer and winter solstices, perhaps with huge feasts and celebrations.

The original purpose of The George Hotel just a couple of miles down the road is much more obvious. Built in 1560, it was designed to be a welcoming, hospitable coaching inn and still today that purpose stands, but with a rather more modern twist thanks to The Coaching Inn Group taking on the hotel in 2022 and treating it to a full refurbishment.

The hotel’s 31 bedrooms have all been beautifully refurbished and its provision of food and drink brought right into the 21st century thanks to the group’s Executive Chef Dave Simms and the hotel’s own brigade.

Enjoying Amesbury

Staying in the area? In addition to visiting Stonehenge and Woodhenge to explore early civilisation you’re also afforded panoramic views of the Salisbury countryside at Old Sarum, the ancient hill fort just a short distance from the town. Salisbury Cathedral is breathtakingly beautiful and contains one of the original copies of Magna Carta, whilst the historic city of Bath with its spa and link to Jane Austen is less than an hour away from the hotel.

Left: Dating back to 1560, the hotel is just a couple of miles away from the ancient monuments of Stonehenge.

THE GEORGE HOTEL, AMESBURY, WILTSHIRE

Location: Amesbury town centre, two miles from Stonehenge and near Woodhenge. 10 miles from Salisbury.

Dining: Dining available in both bar and restaurant with brunch and daytime menu plus evening menu comprising seasonal mains, quality pub restaurant-inspired staples and grill options. Dedicated Sunday lunch menu.

Hotel: Offering 31 beautifully refurbished bedrooms with Classic, Superior and Deluxe room grades.

Contact: The George Hotel, High Street, Amesbury Wiltshire, SP4 7ET. Tel: 01980 622108. www.george-amesbury.co.uk. george.amesbury@innmail.co.uk.

ROYAL WELLS TUNBRIDGE THE

The newest hotel in The Coaching Inn Group’s Premium portfolio, Tunbridge’s Royal Wells, a popular destination for Queen Victoria...

Only hotels that are fit for a King (or Queen) are given The Coaching Inn’s Premium designation. Whilst the town of Tunbridge itself was established in 1606 with the discovery of the nearby Chalybeate Spring, it wasn’t until the Victoria era that the town gained its greatest admirer.

Queen Victoria would stay in the town and her preferred hotel was the Royal Wells, which was granted the use of her coat of arms on the building’s front.

The town itself had its Royal prefix ratified by King Edward VII, and at its heart is the Royal Wells dating back to the late C18th and enjoying a comprehensive £2.5m refurbishment in 2015 before being welcomed into The Coaching Inn Group Family in late 2023.

The place fits beautifully within the company’s portfolio of hotel, enjoying plenty of character and charm whilst also providing guests with a modern experience and dining opportunities as well as comfortable rooms.

Left: The Royal Wells in Tunbridge, Kent, dates back to the late C18th.

THE ROYAL WELLS HOTEL, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT

Dining: Bar and restaurant dining available. Dedicated Sunday lunch and afternoon tea menus.

Hotel: 27 recently refurbished bedrooms with standard and superior room grades available.

Weddings & Events: Two function rooms, both holding civil ceremony license. Dedicated Bridal suite.

Contact: The Royal Wells Hotel, Mount Ephraim, Royal Tunbridge Wells, TN4 8BE. Tel: 01892 511188. Web: royalwells.co.uk. Email: royalwells@innmail.co.uk.

Tempting daytime dining options include a series of small plates, seasonal mains and everyday staples, plus brunch options. In the evening, there’s a newly introduced extended menu, created by The Coaching Inn Group’s Dave Simms and his team.

The hotel’s rooms all provide modern creature comforts from immaculate white linen and top of the range mattresses to tea and coffee making facilities and business-class wi-fi.

Superior rooms provide extra space and if you’re tying the knot in the area you’ll enjoy the hotel’s two function rooms and a bridal suite which is luxuriously appointed for brides as they get ready to

say “I do,” with a roll-top copper bath, and super-king bed, plus a dedicated living room space.

There’s plenty to explore in the area too, with Royal Tunbridge Wells offering a pretty colonnaded walkway, The Pantiles, once the playground of the gentry and of royalty, now home to art galleries, and antiques centres. Venture a little further and just 15 minutes down the road is a place with another royal connection, Penshurst Place & Gardens, once home to Henry VIII, now famed for its beautiful gardens, state rooms and parkland. Anne Boleyn’s childhood home of Hever Castle is also close by, allowing visitors to explore 600 years of history and glorious established gardens.

There’s plenty to explore in the area too, with Royal Tunbridge Wells offering colonnaded walkway, The Pantiles, once the playground of the gentry, now home to art galleries, and antiques centres...

A favourite haunt for smugglers and authors, it’s

The Jamaica Inn in Bolventor, Bodmin

Literary connections and some stunning scenery are just two of the reasons to head down to Cornwall to enjoy the wonderful Jamaica Inn, as see in the TV drama of the same name...

IT WAS ON a windswept and squally night in 1930 that the writer Daphne du Maurier arrived at the Jamaica Inn. Though born in London, the writer enjoyed holidays to Cornwall as a youngster and soon fell in love with its charming rugged coastline.

The writer moved to Cornwall and on one occasion whilst she was out riding and caught in a storm, she was forced to stop at The Jamaica Inn to shelter from the howling winds and coastal squall.

It soon became the inspiration for one of her most famous novels, adapted for TV in 1983 and 2014. Today The Jamaica Inn has its own museum centred around the area’s nefarious smugglers, as well as a museum dedicated to du Maurier herself.

It’s also home to a successful farm shop that’s popular with tourists keen to take home local bread, cheese and meat plus tea and coffee (‘Smuggler’s brew is a very fine black leaf tea), local biscuits and chocolate, as well as Cornish souvenirs.

Naturally a connection to Britain’s most famous gothic author and the

THE JAMAICA INN, BOLVENTOR, BODMIN

Dining: Upper Peddlers and Lower Peddlers restaurants, both serving food seven days a week. Cream teas, lunchtime sandwiches and menus. Evening menu with pies, grill and fish options.

Hotel: 36 bedrooms including four-poster rooms within the original 1750 wing of the hotel.

Local Attractions: Eden Project, Lost Gardens of Heligan, Golitha Falls.

Contact: The Jamaica Inn, Bodmin Moor, Cornwall PL15 7TS Tel: 01566 86250. www.jamaicainn.co.uk. Email: jamaicainnmail.co.uk.

rather spiritual nature of the county itself with its craggy coast, misty moors and mysterious stone circles attracts more than its fair share of ghost hunters and paranormal enthusiasts.

The coaching inn hosts regular paranormal evenings, ghost hunts and murder mystery evenings to entertain, as well as stocking books on local ghosts stories, wiccan witchcraft and tarot.

It’s widely believed that the coaching inn is haunted, but any non-corporeal inhabitants are, we assure you, as friendly and amenable as the more earthly folk who will make your stay a real pleasure.

In August 2022 The Jamaica Inn was brought into The Coaching Inn Group family and treated to a refurbishment of its museums, bars and restaurant, as well as the 36 bedrooms.

A sensitive refurbishment has ensured that the character and charm of the building, which dates back to 1750, has been retained, whilst incorporating the modern qualities of comfort and all the facilities that guests seek. >>

Main: Dating back to 1750, The Jamaica Inn is a truly special, and rather spiritual hotel in a spectacular Cornish setting.

Bodmin has many stone circles such as nearby cheesewring to explore, plus the Poldark Tin Mine and the Eden Project – space-age tropical biomes –plus the Lost Gardens of Heligan close to the hotel

>> Pull up a chunky Windsor chair and settle down by the inn’s open fire before enjoying a comprehensive menu of delicious dishes including plenty of locally-sourced seafood from fillets of sea bass and hake to fish ‘n’ chips and surf ‘n’ turf.

A Spiritual Experience

Working up an appetite isn’t a problem either. If you’re staying in the area for leisure, Bodmin Moor is a stunning landscape carpeted in heather ideal for walking. Just a couple of miles away is Brown Willy, the highest point of Cornwall offering spectacular views over Cornwall some 420 metres above sea level. An annual race up the hill on New Year’s day traditionally begins and ends at the Jamaica Inn. Incidentally, the route is also said to be charged with

‘holy energy’ and on 23rd November each year, spiritual folk gather near the summit to celebrate ‘charging day,’ when the sun is aligned with the positive and negative rocks which provide an uplifting and energising experience.

Brown Willey isn’t the only way to enjoy the area either, as Bodmin has many stone circles such as nearby cheesewring to explore, plus the Poldark Tin Mine and the Eden Project – space-age tropical biomes – plus the Lost Gardens of Heligan both less than an hour away.

Whatever your interest, though, and whatever you’re looking for from a trip to Cornwall, you’ll enjoy spectacular scenery, a warm welcome and modern hospitality in this truly special coaching inn. n

Brown Willy.

Daphne du Maurier

b. 1907 – d. 1989

Gothic author Daphne du Maurier was born in London, but her family would holiday at their second home in Fowey, Cornwall, where they also lived during the Second World War.

Daphne was clearly inspired by the landscape and one evening, escaping a storm, she sheltered in Bodmin’s Jamaica Inn, which led to a fascination with the rugged landscape and its notoriety for the prevalence of smuggling. Jamaica Inn was published in 1936 and was the first of three novels (followed by Rebecca, 1938 and The Birds 1952) by the author adapted by Alfred Hitchcock. n

Daphne du Maurier’s study is available to view at The Smuggler’s Museum within The Jamaica Inn.

The Eden Project, St Austell.

TOP OF THE DROPS

By day he’s The Coaching Inn Group’s Head of People, but by night he’s a cocktail whizz keen to ensure the most authentic experiences across each of our hotels. Lee Melton leaves us shaken or stirred accordingly...

Opposite: A Passionfruit Martini at The Coaching Inn Group is served with a shot of Prosecco, serving as a palate cleanser which acts as a sharp, refreshing counterpoint to the syrupy sweetness of one of our most popular cocktails.

This Page: We’re always keen to champion local spirit producers, and Warners Distillery, close to our Market Harborough-based Three Swans is a good example. Launching in 2012, the company uses botanicals and fruit harvested from their own hedgerows wherever possible.

All of our premium gins have their own individual garnishes, and we’re careful to pair them with a really good quality tonic.

Also shown here is a classic Mojito, Lee’s favourite tipple and one of the earliest cocktails to be invented, by Sir Francis Drake who combined sugar cane spirit and lime to help sailors suffering from scurvy on long voyages. Fresh mint enhances the zest.

Finally, we’ve a classic Cosmopolitan, using orange zest which we warm gently over a flame to activate the fruity citrus oils. >>

Above: An Old Fashioned is a popular whisky cocktail with bitters and soda water. In our hotels it’s one of the few cocktails that is stirred rather than shaken for a softer blend of flavours, helping the ice to dilute the drink a little and ensure a great taste.

Our Billionaire’s Martini is a twist on the usual Espresso Martini, with Kahlúa and vodka but utilising salted caramel syrup and chocolate powder.

Finally, we’ve a pink Mediterranean gin from Malfy, with Sicilian pink grapefruit, Italian lemons and fine botanicals. Fever-Tree’s tonic water contains no quinine, which can taste bitter and override the taste of the gin... not here though; you’ll just enjoy the refreshing taste of sunshine and a unique garnish.

It’s worth noting too, that our Signature Inns also offer our guests a range of bespoke gins blended to reflect their areas.

The Coaching Inn Group - Classic Collection

The Old Bridge

Holmfirth , West Yorkshire

Surrounded by spectacular scenery including the Marsden Moor Estate and offering a warm Yorkshire welcome, The Old Bridge is a comfortable place to enjoy West Yorkshire...

The Old Bridge Holmfirth , Yorkshire

Background: One of the first hotels to come under the custodianship of The Coaching Inn Group, The Old Bridge is set in the friendly town of Holmfirth, overlooking the pretty river with its rocky bed. It’s also close to the 5,000-acre Marsden Moor estate with opportunities for walking and cycling.

Dining: Coffee House and Eatery with lunchtime menu and à la carte menu during both day and evening service.

Hotel: 21 en suite rooms with Standard, Superior and Deluxe grades available.

The Old Bridge, Market Walk, Holmfirth, West Yorks HD9 7DA. 01484 681212

www.oldbridgeholmfirth.co.uk

If you’re enjoying a short break in Holmfirth, you may want to look out for some older folk rolling down a hill in a bathtub, or being chased away by a cross lady with wrinkled stockings.

That’s because Holmfirth was where the classic TV comedy Last of the Summer Wine was filmed between 1973 and 2010. Nearly 300 episodes of the comedy took advantage of the pretty scenery and Yorkshire charm you’ll find all around the town and at The Old Bridge.

One of the original Coaching Inn Group hotels, The Old Bridge enjoyed a comprehensive renovation in 2016 and since then the place has attracted those keen to enjoy its coffee house and outdoor decking. The hotel overlooks the River Holme with its rocky bed and next door is the equally rocky (and rolly)

Picturedrome live music venue which is popular for classic pop acts including those from the 80s and 90s, as well as tribute acts.

A comprehensive menu includes brunch and daytime specials as well as seasonal mains and ‘light and healthy’ options. Speaking of being healthy, the area is also ideal for walking and cycling, and it’s hoped that the Tour de Yorkshire cycle race will return to the town in 2024.

The Coaching Inn Group - Classic Collection

The Royal Oak

Welshpool, Powys, Wales

Located in the rolling borderlands of Powys, The Royal Oak is a beautiful Grade II listed 18th century inn in the market town of Welshpool...

Located close the to the borders of Wales and England the Royal Oak is in the market town of Welshpool in Powys.

April 2015 saw The Coaching Inn Group bring The Royal Oak into its family of hotels and immediately treated the building to a comprehensive refurbishment, ensuring it can offer guests a blend of traditional style but also modern comfort for travellers whether enjoying the area for leisure or those working in the area.

The hotel was originally a meeting point for those travelling to and from Chester, Shrewsbury, Ludlow and Aberystwyth. Today the inn is well-placed for exploring a region which has the beautiful National Trust-owned Powis Castle at its heart and is surrounded by beautiful

countryside including the Montgomery Canal with its walks and the National Trail of Glynwr’s Way.

The hotel provides a satisfying brunch menu plus everyday staples and seasonal mains plus four grill options. Daytime dining is further enhanced with artisan and classic sandwiches and there’s an afternoon tea menu too for those who want to enjoy the hotel’s lounges or outdoor seating areas.

The Royal Oak Welshpool, Powys

Background: Dating back to 1742, located close to the border of Wales and England, the Royal Oak carries a Grade II listing and is close to Powis Castle and the Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway.

Dining: Eatery with sandwich menu, afternoon tea and patisserie provision plus à la carte menu for daytime and evening service.

Hotel: 25 en suite rooms with Classic, Superior and Deluxe tiers.

The Royal Oak, The Cross, Welshpool SY21 7DG.

01938 552217

www.royaloakwelshpool.co.uk

The Coaching Inn Group - Classic Collection

The Golden Lion St.

Ives, Cambridgeshire

Often frequented by comedian Eric Morecambe, the provision of great food and drink is no joke for the dedicated team at The Golden Lion in St. Ives, Cambridgeshire...

The Golden Lion St. Ives, Cambridgeshire

Background: Surrounded by listed buildings and located on the banks of the River Ouse. 18th century coaching inn close to the city of Cambridge with its riverside walks, university and museums.

Dining: Large restaurant on the ground floor serving the group’s ‘eatery’ menu concept. Courtyard area for al fresco dining.

Hotel: 27 en suite bedrooms with Classic, Superior and Deluxe grades. The Golden Lion, Market Hill, St. Ives, Cambs PE27 5AL. 01480 492100 www.thegoldenlionhotel.co.uk

The Fens extend to some 1,500 square miles of countryside across Lincolnshire, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire and at its heart is St Ives.

Its a market town of around 18,000 people which made its fortune from 1600 to 1800 with many merchants coming to trade in livestock in the town. It was around this time that The Golden Lion was built and extended in 1830, its popularity celebrated by the impressive carved lion on the hotel’s façade.

Today The Golden Lion is just half an hour from Cambridge with its famous university and opportunities to enjoy punting along the Cam. Alternatively, visit the Cambridge Gin Laboratory, or indulge a love of electronics with a trip to the Centre for Computing History.

Another attraction just half an hour from the hotel is Hamerton Zoo Park at Huntingdon. The place has many birds, reptiles, marsupials and other Australian creatures, and big cats including several species of tigers... no lions, though, golden or otherwise!

Once you’re back at The Golden Lion, you’ll enjoy a range of freshly cooked seasonal dishes, grill options and a good night’s sleep in one of 27 en suite rooms.

The Coaching Inn Group - Classic Collection

The Three Swans

Market Harborough, Leicestershire

There’s room for everybody, in Market Harborough whether you’re on business or visiting for pleasure. A large outdoor terrace also allows for al fresco drinks and dining!

Created in the 16th century and frequented by King Charles I back in 1645, we’re pleased to report that The Three Swans these days is a little more peaceful!

King Charles I visited the inn just before The Battle of Naseby and today the welcome is still fit for a king... even if the third Carolean monarch has yet to pop in. Should he do so in the future though, King Charles III will find a deceptively large and impressive coaching inn popular with those on business.

The Three Swans has no fewer than 12 conference rooms and can accommodate up to 220 delegates. As the hotel is also conveniently located for those visiting from Leicester, Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds, there’s little wonder it’s a popular conference and meeting venue.

As well as its conferencing facilities and its 59 bedrooms the hotel also has a busy bar and restaurant. It serves residents and local guests with everything from afternoon tea, a daytime menu and popular Sunday lunch menu to a main menu with everyday staples and seasonal mains.

In the area, enjoy a visit to the National Space Centre, Rockingham Castle or Rockingham Motor Speedway.

The Three Swans Market Harborough

Background: Based in Leicestershire, The Three Swans is believed to date back to the 16th century.

Conferences/Events: A particular speciality at The Three Swans with 12 conference rooms for up to 220 delegates per room.

Dining: Refurbished eatery with 80 covers downstairs and a further 60 covers upstairs. Dining is also available in Fothergill’s Bar and on the terrace.

Hotel: 59 en suite rooms. Standard, Superior and Deluxe grades available.

The Three Swans, High Street, Market Harborough LE16 7NJ. 01858 466644

www.threeswans.co.uk

The Coaching Inn Group - Classic Collection

The Three Swans Hungerford,

Berkshire

Equidistant to both Oxford and Salisbury, The Three Swans is located close to the North Wessex Downs and counts among its neighbours a certain aristocratic TV family!

The Three Swans Hungerford, Berks

Background: Located along the Kennet & Avon Canal, Hungerford is home to The Three Swans, a coaching inn dating back to the 17th century now offering a modern, comfortable experience for visitors.

Dining: Currently providing bar menu and main menu with five starters, four salads and nine main courses, from noon until 9.30pm, seven days a week.

Hotel: 25 bedrooms, with Classic, Superior and Deluxe grades available.

The Three Swans, High Street, Hungerford, Berks RG17 0LZ. 01488 682721

www.threeswans.net

To Oxford with its dreaming spires: 26 miles. And to Salisbury with its gothic cathedral and stone circles: 27 miles.

Right in the middle is Hungerford’s Three Swans and its position on the route between the two cities perhaps explains why, since the 17th century, it has been an important coaching inn.

It’s still a coaching inn, but thanks to a makeover in 2016, the offering of hospitality is much more up-to-date, and it now provides guests with 25 beautifully appointed bedrooms.

Both residents and those just passing through the town can enjoy quality seasonal dishes and grill options in the Three Swans’ restaurant with its warming fires in the winter and outdoor seating for the warmer month.

If you’re staying in the area, riverside walks along the Dun are a delight with canal boats trickling past on their way to join the Kennet & Avon Canal. Also appealing to walkers and cyclists is the North Wessex Downs AONB.

Around 20 minutes away visitors can also enjoy a trip to Highclere Castle, home to the Earl of Carnarvon and otherwise known as the home of the Grantham family of Downton Abbey!

The Coaching Inn Group - Classic Collection

The Swan Hotel Staffordshire

Live music throughout the summer months and a spectacular setting in the picturesque town of Stafford are just two of the highlights of The Swan Hotel...

Back in the Georgian era coaching inns could be pretty rorty but thankfully in the 21st century, evenings are rather quieter and calmer.

Of course every rule has an exception and SwanLive on selected evenings in the summer months provides live entertainment courtesy of a number of local bands. It’s popular with locals but those from outside the town are of course welcomed with open arms too.

Another lively attraction is the Alton Towers theme park less than an hour from the hotel. If your preference is a more sedate break, walks around Stafford Castle and the National Trust-owned Shugborough Estate –once home to Patrick Anson, 5th Earl of Lichfield, and renowned royal wedding photographer – will

also provide lots of entertainment in a market town close to Cannock Chase, an area of outstanding natural beauty.

The Swan Hotel came into the Coaching Inn Group family back in June 2018, enjoying a comprehensive makeover creating a modern, comfortable coaching inn which has retained all of the style and warmth of the early 18th century but added a modern dining experience for guests to enjoy too.

The Swan Hotel Stafford, Staffordshire

Background: Historic coaching inn dating back to at least 1711.

Live Music & Events: SwanLive takes place from June each year with a range of live music acts from the local area.

Dining: Extensive menu including quality pub-restaurant inspired classic and à la carte seasonal mains plus afternoon tea options, available in the restaurant or bar.

Hotel: 31 en suite rooms including Classic, Superior & Deluxe grades.

The Swan Hotel, Greengate Street, Stafford, Staffordshire ST16 2JA.

01858 438300

www.theswanstafford.co.uk

The Coaching Inn Group - Classic Collection

The White Hart Boston,

Lincolnshire

Rich fertile soils yielding fresh vegetables for our dishes plus vast skies and vistas of expansive flat farmland make staying in Boston a thoroughly rewarding experience...

The White Hart Boston, Lincolnshire

Background: Coaching inn located in the heart of a busy market town adjacent to Boston’s tidal river, The Haven.

Dining: Courtyard Bar & Restaurant for daytime and evening dining and patisserie. Evening service also available in The Riverside Restaurant.

Hotel: 26 en suite rooms with Classic, Superior and Deluxe grades available.

Weddings & Conferences: First floor Boston Suite for 80 (seated) to 120 (buffet dining), civil ceremony licensed.

The White Hart, High Street, Boston PE21 8SH. 01205 311900

www.whitehartboston.com

Lincolnshire is known as the county that feeds the country and with good reason. The land around Boston was recovered from the sea and its silty soils are rich and dark, ideal for growing vegetables like broccoli, cauliflowers, cabbages and potatoes.

The White Hart and The Coaching Inn Group’s Headquarters are both located in Boston, and it’s the town’s proximity to all those fresh ingredients which has inspired many of the dishes which appear on the hotel’s menus as well as our Executive Head Chef Dave Simms’ approach to food across the group; great tasting dishes with fresh ingredients, prepared simply and priced fairly.

Dine at The White Hart and you’ll enjoy dishes featuring many local suppliers, not least among which are our beloved

Boston Sausages served with mash which we promise you’ll enjoy!

Elsewhere the hotel has 26 comfortable and spacious bedroom and a newly revamped terrace to the front of the hotel which has just been the subject of restoration to preserve the town’s historic waterfront, used for trade and commerce in wool, vegetables, wheat and timber from as far back as the 1300s.

The Coaching Inn Group - Classic Collection

Admiral Rodney Horncastle, Lincolnshire

It’s a town renowned for its antiques, but one of Horncastle’s most venerable treasures is The Admiral Rodney, a coaching inn with much to offer visitors...

With fewer than 7,000 residents Horncastle is a small but perfectly formed market town in Lincolnshire, but one whose appeal definitely belies its size.

Walk around the town and you’ll notice a huge number of antique dealers –about 100 premises at last count. Frequent visitors to the area are film crews working on programmes like Bargain Hunt and Flog It. If your interest is more botany than bargains though it’ll interest you to know that renowned explorer Sir Joseph Banks has historic connections to the town, his life being celebrated in the town’s Natural Sciences and Local Heritage centre.

Just 15 minutes or so away, aviation enthusiasts will find RAF Coningsby, a working base for one of Britain’s two

Quick Reaction Alert stations and the home of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight with its precious fleet of Spitfires and venerable Lancaster available to view.

And finally, for golfers the Hotchkin & Bracken courses of the English Golf Union are just a few minutes away. These afford more experienced players the chance to experience what is generally regarded as one of the world’s very best golf courses.

Admiral Rodney Horncastle, Lincs

Background: Coaching inn dating back to 1790 in the market town of Horncastle, renowned for its thriving antiques trade.

Weddings: Licensed for Civil Ceremonies with a capacity of 120 in the Top Deck function room and 75 guests in the Admiralty Suite.

Dining: Eatery with daytime and evening service, plus carvery.

Hotel: 31 en suite rooms with Classic, Superior and Deluxe.

The Admiral Rodney, North Street, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 5DX. 01507 523131 www.admiralrodney.com

BERKSHIRE

1. Three Swans Hotel, 117 High Street, Hungerford, Berkshire, RG17 0LZ. Telephone: 01488 682721. Web: www.threeswanshotel.co.uk.

Email: swans.hungerford@innmail.co.uk. CAMBRIDGESHIRE

2. Golden Lion Hotel, Market Hill, St. Ives, Cambridgeshire, PE27 5AL. Telephone: 01480 492100. Web: www.thegoldenlionhotel.co.uk. Email: goldenlion@innmail.co.uk Facebook: /goldenlionstives

3. Bell Inn Hotel, Great North Road, Stilton, Cambridgeshire, PE7 3RA. Telephone: 01733 241066. Web: www.thebellstilton.co.uk. Email: bell@innmail.co.uk. CORNWALL

4. Jamaica Inn, Bolventor, Launceston, Cornwall, PL15 7TS. Telephone: 01566 86250. Web: www.jamaicainn.co.uk. Email: jamaica@innmail.co. DERBYSHIRE

5. Rutland Arms Hotel, The Square, Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1BT. Telephone: 01629 812812. Web: www.rutlandarmsbakewell.co.uk. Email: rutland@innmail.co.uk.

DEVON

6. Moorland Hotel, Haytor, Newton Abbot, Devon, TQ13 9XT. Telephone: 01364 701191. Web: www.moorlandhoteldartmoor.co.uk. Email: moorland@innmail.co.uk.

ESSEX

7. The Saracens Head Hotel, High Street, Great Dunmow, Essex CM6 1AG. Telephone: 01371 873901. Web: www.saracenshead-hotel.co.uk. Email: saracenshead@innmail.co.uk.

GLOUCESTERSHIRE

8. White Hart Royal Hotel, High Street, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucs, GL56 0BA. Telephone: 01608 650731. Web: www.whitehartroyal.co.uk. Email: whitehartroyal@innmail.co.uk.

9. Tudor House Hotel, High Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, GL20 5BH. Telephone: 01684 297755. Web: www.tudorhousehotel.co.uk. E: tudorhouse.tewkesbury@innmail.co.uk.

HAMPSHIRE

HOSPITALITY FROM THE HEART

10. White Horse Hotel, Market Place, Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 8ZL. Telephone: 01794 337810.

Web: www.whitehorsehotelromsey.co.uk.

Email: whitehorse@innmail.co.uk.

11. Forest Park Hotel, Rhinefield Road, Brockenhurst, Hampshire, SO42 7ZG. Telephone: 01590 622844. Web: www.forestpark-hotel.co.uk. Email: forestpark@innmail.co.uk.

HEREFORDSHIRE

12. Feathers Hotel, 25 High Street, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 1DS. Telephone: 01531 635266. Web: www.feathersledbury.co.uk. Email: feathers.ledbury@innmail.co.uk.

KENT

13. The Royal Wells Hotel, Mount Ephraim. Royal Tunbridge Wells, TN4 8BE Telephone: 01892 511188. Web: www.royalwells.co.uk. Email: royalwells@innmail.co.uk.

LEICESTERSHIRE

14. Three Swans Hotel, 21 High Street, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7NJ Telephone: 01858 466644. Web: www.threeswans.co.uk. Email: swans.harborough@innmail.co.uk.

LINCOLNSHIRE

15. White Hart Hotel, 1-5 High Street, Boston, Lincolnshire, PE21 8SH. Telephone: 01205 311900. Web: www.whitehartboston.com. Email: whitehartboston@innmail.co.uk.

16. Admiral Rodney Hotel, North Street, Horncastle, Lincolnshire, LN9 5DX. Telephone: 01507 523131. Web: www.admiralrodney.com. Email: admiralrodney@innmail.co.uk.

NORFOLK

17. Pheasant Hotel, Coast Road, Kelling, Norfolk, NR25 7EG. Telephone: 01263 588382.

Web: www.pheasanthotelnorfolk.co.uk. Email: pheasant.holt@innmail.co.uk.

18. Blakeney Manor Hotel, The Quay, Blakeney, Norfolk, NR25 7ND, Telephone: 01263 740376.

Web: www.blakeneymanor.co.uk. Email: blakeney.manor@innmail.co.uk.

19. The King William IV, Heacham Road, Sedgeford, Norfolk, PE36 5LU. Telephone: 01485 571765.

Web: www.thekingwilliamsedgeford.co.uk. Email: kingwilliam@innmail.co.uk.

NORTH WALES

20. Castle Hotel, High Street, Conwy, North Wales, LL32 8DB. Telephone: 01492 582800. Web: www.castlewales.co.uk. Email: castle@innmail.co.uk.

NORTH YORKSHIRE

21. Golden Fleece Hotel, Market Place, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, YO7 1LL. Telephone: 01845 523108.

Web: www.goldenfleecehotel.com. Email: goldenfleece@innmail.co.uk.

22. Feathers Hotel, Market Place, Helmsley, North Yorkshire, YO62 5BH. Telephone: 01439 770275.

Web: www.feathershotelhelmsley.co.uk. Email: feathers@innmail.co.uk.

23. Kings Head Hotel, Market Place, Richmond, North Yorkshire, DL10 4H. Telephone: 01748 850220. Web: www.kingsheadrichmond.co.uk. Email: kingshead@innmail.co.uk.

24. Talbot Hotel, 42 Yorkersgate, Malton, North Yorkshire, YO17 7AJ. Telephone: 01653 639096.

Web: www.talbotmalton.co.uk. Email: talbot.malton@innmail.co.uk.

25. Crown Hotel, Horsefair, Boroughbridge, North Yorkshire, YO51 9LB. Telephone: 01423 322328.

Web: crownhotelboroughbridge.co.uk. Email: crown.boroughbridge@innmail.co.uk.

NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

26. Talbot Hotel, New Street, Oundle, Northamptonshire, PE8 4EA. Telephone: 01832 273621.

Web: www.talbothotel.co.uk. Email: talbot@innmail.co.uk.

OXFORDSHIRE

27. George Hotel, High Street, Dorchesteron-Thames, Oxfordshire, OX10 7HH. Telephone: 01865 340404.

Web: www.george-dorchester.co.uk. Email: george.dorchester@innmail.co.uk.

Coaching Inn Group Head Office, Friars House, Quaker Lane, Boston, Lincolnshire PE21 6BZ

POWYS

28. Royal Oak Hotel, The Cross, Welshpool, Powys, SY21 7DG. Telephone: 01938 552217.

Web: www.royaloakwelshpool.co.uk.

Email: royaloak@innmail.co.uk.

29. Castle of Brecon Hotel, Castle Square, Brecon, Powys, LD3 9DB, , Telephone: 01874 624611.

Web: www.breconcastle.co.uk.

Email: castle.brecon@innmail.co.uk.

SHROPSHIRE

30. Wynnstay Hotel, Church Street, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 2SZ. Telephone: 01691 655261.

Web: www.wynnstayhotel.com.

Email: wynnstay@innmail.co.uk.

SOMERSET

31. Swan Hotel, 11 Sadler Street, Wells, Somerset, BA5 2RX. Telephone: 01749 836300.

Web: www.swanhotelwells.co.uk.

Email: swan.wells@innmail.co.uk.

STAFFORDSHIRE

32. Swan Hotel, 46A Greengate Street, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2JA. Telephone: 01785 258142.

Web: www.theswanstafford.co.uk.

Email: swan@innmail.co.uk.

SURREY

33. King’s Arms & Royal Hotel, High Street, Godalming, Surrey, GU7 1EB, Telephone: 01483 421545.

Web: www.kingsarmsandroyal.co.uk.

Email: kingsarms.godalming@innmail.co.uk.

WEST YORKSHIRE

34. Old Bridge Inn, Market Walk, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire, HD9 7DA. Telephone: 01484 68121.

Web: www.oldbridgeholmfirth.co.uk. Email: oldbridge@innmail.co.uk.

WILTSHIRE

35. George Hotel, High Street, Amesbury, Wiltshire, SP4 7ET, Telephone: 01980 622108.

Web: www.george-amesbury.co.uk.

Email: george.amesbury@innmail.co.uk. n

Tel: 01205 355522

www.coachinginngroup.co.uk

Email: office@innmail.co.uk

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