The Retreat, Elcot Park Hotel Newbury , Newbury (Berkshire)
About the Hotel
The Retreat at Elcot Park is an 18th-century Georgian manor house, formerly the family home of the renowned poet Percy Shelley. Set within 16 acres of gardens and woodland in the Kennet Valley, it combines historical charm with modern amenities. The hotel features period details, including a sweeping staircase and a grand fireplace in the lounge, providing a unique atmosphere. Designed for both relaxation and adventure, it serves as a convenient base for exploring the surrounding countryside and nearby attractions.
Location
Located approximately 6.5 miles from Newbury Racecourse and accessible by car from Southampton Airport, The Retreat is strategically positioned for guests looking to explore local attractions. The hotel is surrounded by the picturesque North Wessex Downs AONB, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. Major shopping destinations like Swindon’s Great Western Designer Outlet Village and Reading’s Oracle shopping center are just a short drive away, making it convenient for various excursions.
Rooms
Each room at The Retreat is equipped with a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, and complimentary WiFi. Guests can choose from a variety of accommodations, including super king-sized beds and spacious suites designed for families. Many rooms feature period-style decor with a blend of modern and antique furnishings, contributing to the hotel's unique character. Some rooms offer stunning views of the surrounding parkland, enhancing the rural retreat experience.
Eat & Drink
Dining is available at The Orangery Restaurant, which specializes in international cuisine, and the pan-Asian restaurant Yu, known for its creative menu. Guests can enjoy an all-day dining experience at 1772, which offers a diverse selection of dishes. The hotel provides various options for those seeking private dining and special event catering, making it suitable for celebrations and gatherings. Seasonal and themed dining experiences are also available.
Leisure & Business
The hotel boasts numerous recreational facilities, including an outdoor tennis court, a fitness center, and access to an award-winning spa. Guests are encouraged to explore the gardens or participate in wellness activities such as watercolour painting workshops. For business needs, The Retreat offers meeting rooms and event spaces suitable for conferences, weddings, and private parties. The staff provides assistance with planning and organizing events.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- 24-hour reception
- Pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- Security
- Baggage storage
- Elevator
- Barber shop
- Smoke detectors
- Electric vehicle charging station
- Fire extinguishers
- Key card access
Sports & Fitness
- Fitness center
- Hiking
- Tennis court
- Golf course
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
Services
- Pet amenities available
- Room service
- Housekeeping
- Tours/Ticket assistance
- Stores/Commercial services
- Welcome drink
Dining
- In-room breakfast
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Picnic area/ Tables
- Special diet menus
Business
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Children
- Cribs
- Board games
- Children's menu
- Game room
Spa & Leisure
- Heated swimming pool
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Beach umbrellas
- Sun loungers
- Sun terrace
- Garden area
- Leisure/ TV room
- Spa & wellness center
- Back massage
- Head massage
- Full body massage
- Foot massage
Room features
- Heating
- Sitting area
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
- AM/FM alarm clock
Location
Reviews and Ratings
The hotel offers lovely, comfortable rooms of a good standard, with the fantastic four-poster bed on the first floor providing a charming view of the garden. However, some rooms appeared a bit shabby. The staff were extremely friendly and helpful, creating a memorable Christmas party atmosphere, but there were issues with misinformation regarding service timings and blame-shifting incidents. The location was central and well-positioned, offering stunning surroundings, though some staff interactions seemed overly formal. The dining experience had some hiccups, especially during peak times, with breakfast options appearing average and not the best value for money. Despite these drawbacks, the homemade yogurt was a highlight.
The hotel offers a lovely place to gather and chat over bar meals without disturbing other guests from wedding parties. While the rooms were clean and tidy, the evening meal atmosphere falls short for a four-star experience. Some areas of the hotel are in poor condition, needing refurbishment.
I stayed at the hotel recently. The rooms were comfortable and warm, although a bit dated for the price. The staff were friendly and helpful, but there were some issues with service inconsistency. The location was nice for relaxation but needs updating for a better experience. The dining experience was a mix of good and bad, with some value for money concerns. Overall, it was a decent stay with room for improvement.
Next best alternative
Andronikos Santorini
Nox Kensington
Hotel 47 Medellin Center
L'Adresse Hotel Boutique
Burg Reichenstein
Hotel Beek By Anna
Scandic Arlandastad
Garlande Hotel Avignon Centre
Trolltunga Hotel
Hotel Renaissance
Perramont Hotel
Park Hill Inn And Suites