Daily digest for Binny's Food & Travel, on April 29, 2025
There's something magical about finding a place that offers pure escapism without needing to travel far. Just an hour and a half from central London, nestled in the Berkshire countryside, is The Vineyard Hotel– a five-star hotel that delivers quiet l…
There's something magical about finding a place that offers pure escapism without needing to travel far. Just an hour and a half from central London, nestled in the Berkshire countryside, is The Vineyard Hotel– a five-star hotel that delivers quiet luxury in the most beautiful, refined way.
The Vineyard Hotel, Newbury
I recently spent the most dreamy weekend at this stunning property, and I haven't stopped thinking about it since. Whether you're a lover of food, wine, spa days, art, or simply the joy of a peaceful retreat, The Vineyard ticks every box and then some.
The Arrival
From the moment we pulled into the drive, I knew we were in for something special. The setting is gorgeous – lush gardens, elegant architecture, and a warm welcome that instantly puts you at ease. The staff were faultlessly attentive, striking that perfect balance between professional and personal. You feel looked after without it being fussy.
The Rooms
We stayed in one of their spacious and beautifully appointed rooms, and it was heaven. The interiors are classic and tasteful with rich textures, warm lighting, and those thoughtful little details that elevate a hotel stay to something truly memorable.
I especially loved the subtle wine-themed touches – a gentle nod to the hotel's heritage and passion. The bed was like sleeping on a cloud, and waking up to birdsong and soft morning light filtering through the curtains was such a treat.
The Spa
No luxury escape is complete without a spa, and The Vineyard's does not disappoint. It's intimate and serene, with a tranquil circualr pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room.
The Art
One of the most unique features of The Vineyard is its impressive art collection. Everywhere you turn, there's something beautiful to admire – from contemporary pieces to classic works. It felt a bit like staying in a boutique gallery. There's a story behind many of the pieces too, and the hotel offers a lovely art trail if you're curious. It's such a thoughtful touch and added another layer of charm to the whole experience.
Wine & Dining – The Star of the Show
As a lover of wine and great food, I was so excited for the tasting menu – and it exceeded every expectation. We dined in The Tasting Room, which is the brainchild of the incredibly talented Executive Chef, Tom Scade. The room itself exudes an intimate yet refined atmosphere, with an open kitchen where you can watch the culinary magic unfold.
What makes The Tasting Room truly special is that it's a labour of love. Each dish is meticulously crafted to take you on a sensory journey. The menu evolves with the seasons, ensuring that only the freshest, most vibrant ingredients are used. And trust me, you can taste the passion and dedication in every bite.
The meal is presented in five exceptional courses, but they're far from ordinary. It's a playful, inventive journey, with unexpected combinations and surprises that left us in awe. Here's a taste of what we experienced:
A trio of Snacks to start
Taco: A delicate combination of Wye Valley asparagus, lardo, lovage, and buttermilk that was fresh and beautifully balanced.
Wye Valley Asparagus - Lardo, lovage, buttermilk
Cornish Brill: Paired with morels, wild garlic, and Vin Jaune, this dish was rich and indulgent, with the perfect earthy notes.
Kings Oscietra Caviar "Pie and Mash": A luxurious take on a classic, with the briny caviar adding an indulgent twist.
Saddle of Berkshire Downs Lamb: Served in two parts
"BLT": A playful take on the beloved sandwich, with a creative twist that only The Tasting Room could deliver.
Waterloo "Mille Feuille": A decadent dessert featuring truffle honey, which was the perfect end to a meal full of surprises.
Gariguette Strawberries: Paired with fromage frais and tarragon, this course was a refreshing contrast to the richer flavours that came before.
80% Komuntu Chocolate Mousse: The finale, featuring coffee praline and jasmine tea, was a truly indulgent end to a spectacular meal.
Every dish felt like a new chapter in the story of the evening, blending artistry with flavour in ways that were both surprising and utterly delicious.
The wine pairings throughout the meal were perfectly chosen and enhanced the experience. Each glass seemed to complement the dishes in the most seamless way, and the sommeliers' knowledge added another layer of depth to the experience.
It wasn't just a meal – it was an immersive experience that was as much about the storytelling as it was about the flavours. And that, for me, is what makes The Tasting Room so extraordinary.
And of course, the wine cellar deserves its own round of applause. Home to over 30,000 bottles, it's one of the most impressive I've seen. There's even the option to have a private wine tasting if you're feeling extra indulgent.
Final Thoughts
It's rare to find a hotel that combines exceptional food, service, comfort, and atmosphere so seamlessly, but The Vineyard does just that. Whether you're celebrating something special or simply want to treat yourself, it's the ideal place for a weekend getaway.
What I loved most was the balance: luxury without pretension, indulgence without over-the-top flash. It's a place that's designed to be savoured – like a fine wine, fittingly enough.
If you're thinking of a countryside escape that's rich in experience but light on stress, The Vineyard Hotel in Newbury should be at the top of your list.
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