Mercure Newbury Elcot Park Hotel

I felt as if I’d stepped into the mansion’s past, with portraits of former residents, fireplaces and books all around. The place is lavishly decorated but still cosy, and the staff are lovely. The gardens and countryside around Newbury are as beautiful as the property. My room was spacious, had a wonderful garden view, and came with a comfortable bed and couches. The restaurant, bar and breakfast were lovely too.

Breakfast had a huge selection, and the coffee machine made the best latte I’ve ever had. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout. The hotel sits down a short country lane, with uninterrupted views from the rooms, and looks stunning from outside. Inside, the building is beautiful and luxurious, though the bedrooms are a little dated. They’re generous in size, clean and comfortable.

The food was delicious, with a varied menu, and the kitchen team knew how to handle the different dietary needs in our group, including coeliac requirements. Everyone was welcoming and helpful, and the rooms were comfortable and well equipped. It’s a lovely old country manor in beautiful grounds, with free Wi-Fi and parking. I was there for a three-day work conference, so I can’t say whether the rate was good value. The hotel is very remote, which suits a quiet getaway, but I’d have no reason to visit apart from an organised event and there aren’t transport hubs nearby. The Wi-Fi was open, which made me a bit uneasy about using an unsecured service, though being so far out perhaps made it less likely anyone nearby was trying to hack it. Otherwise, it was delightful, and I’d stay again if it weren’t in the middle of nowhere!

I had a great stay and would recommend it. The bed was huge and comfortable, and I slept exceptionally well in my clean, medium-sized room with its traditional country feel. There was a group socialising in the bar when I arrived, but I heard nothing in my room. Breakfast was enjoyable, and check-in and checkout were quick. The grounds seemed well kept, there’s plenty of free parking, and the hotel is away from traffic and main roads. I liked the unusual sculptures, art and furniture, especially the chair made from, or styled like, horse saddles. I only stayed one night and didn’t get to explore much. Two small things: there wasn’t clear signage to reception from the car park, so arriving at night was confusing, and the dining room only seemed to have large tables for about eight, which didn’t work for someone wanting breakfast alone.