First Impressions
When I first stumbled across Birch hotel a couple of years ago, I knew I needed to visit. Described as a place that ‘gives you the time and freedom to pause, think, create, and savour, so you feel energised and inspired, with new ideas and stories to tell.’ They offer so many activities and run daily, weekly and monthly classes that cater for all interests, so I was excited to visit on a personalised retreat tailored for what I want and need. When I arrived, the first thing I saw was a long driveway leading to a beautiful manor home surrounded by meadows and gardens. I couldn’t wait to get inside and see the famous staircase we know and love from Instagram, the fun and quirky interiors and get started with their activities.
Interiors
Expect fun, colourful, creative, adventurous and quirky interiors throughout the main building at Birch hotel. Inspired by the original owner Lady Meux who was flamboyant, eccentric, and set about transforming the estate into a haven of frivolity, free spirits, and fun. Birch has recreated her love for boundary-breaking and challenging conventions, norms, and ideas by creating a whimsical world. Cosy seating fills the many lounges inviting you to relax, talk to other guests and play a board game or two. The bedrooms are the only place where the interiors are more on the basic side. However, this has been done intentionally as they want you to be out and about trying our new activities and classes rather than spending time in your room.
Rooms
They have rooms available either in the main house or the Ridings and you can choose between a small room if travelling solo, a medium, twin or bunk which sleeps 4 people. We decided to head to the Riding so that we were away from the main building and loved the look of the courtyard area. As explained above, our room was simple but comfort was still key. The bed had the most amazing Simba mattress and pillows which meant we slept so well during our stay. The bathroom comes with some fabulous toiletries and a bath where you unwind after a day of exploring. Birch does a great deal that if you stay Friday and Saturday night, they will give you Sunday night for free which you really can’t say no to.
Dining
Foodies rejoice! Birch hotel comes with not 1, not 2 but 5 places you are able to eat at during your stay, meaning you can really mix up your meals and where you dine. The Zebra Riding Club is probably their most luxurious and popular restaurant onsite. In partnership with Robin Gill, they use the best produce surrounding the building from the farm and wood to create delicious feasts. Valerie’s provides all-day dining in a more relaxed setting. Here you will find perfectly grilled fish and meat options and plenty of delicious and healthy meals.
There are 3 bars where you can pick up a cocktail, wine on tap or any other drink you fancy. At the Link’s bar, you can also pick up meals like burgers and pizza for a more easy meal. There is a cafe known as The Store which provides freshly made pastries, lunch options and snacks. In the summer they also have a tipi outside that offers small plates. Make sure you ask about special feast evenings too. Safe to say, you won’t be going hungry during your stay.
Activities
When we booked Birch hotel, we treated it like our own personalised retreat. Onsite there is a fun cinema room that screens multiple movies throughout the day. There is an outdoor swimming pool, but be prepared, it’s only partly warmed so only for the brave during the winter months. They offer daily baking classes where you can help them prep and work the sourdough for daily rituals. There is also a wellness centre where you will find a gym, classes and a sauna. All the gym classes are free and they offer a wide range from yoga, spin, boxing and Bootcamp. We tried a varied mix and all were great, I would recommend the ride and rave on a Friday evening as you finish the class with Prosecco.
Also, check out the other classes during your stay as they are always offering a fabulous mix of activities for all interests and ages. We attended puppy yoga, a Zen wellness afternoon and a sound bath. If that isn’t your thing, they offer art and craft style classes like pottery and painting you can get involved in too.
Overall Impression
From day 1, we were hooked and starting to plan our return in the summer months. All the food we had during our stay was great, our room was cosy and the activities we attended were such fun. You definitely need to just turn up and enjoy yourself and go with the flow. One thing we noticed was how friendly everyone was, and often we found ourselves talking to people we had met in the gym the day before. Best of all, rooms are such a reasonable price (works out about £300 for a Friday to Monday for 2 people.) I will definitely be returning and creating another mini-retreat for myself.
For more hotel reviews and travel inspiration, check out our website here.
