Bonjour lecteurs! We went on a very exciting adventure last week up in Buckinghamshire. Indeed, we had a gorgeous Stay at the De Vere Latimer Estate. If you are looking for a hotel with lots of outdoor space and a swimming pool to entertain the children, bookmark this stunning location.
The De Vere Latimer Estate
Only half an hour drive from Finchley, the De Vere Latimer Estate will charm you.
Situated right next to the River Chess in Buckinghamshire, you get to enjoy the 19th-century country house full of grandeur and history too.
Indeed, the mansion was a base for military intelligence during World War II. Even secret tunnels remain below the building to this day!
The hotel has recently undergone a £7m refurbishment and it is absolutely stunning.
The modern touches mixed with the original character of the property make it très spécial.
Our Arrival
As soon as we arrived, the tone was set with some glamour.
The entrance made an impression for sure with the fameuse De Vere vintage car waiting for us to be snapped.
Stanley did not miss it for a beat and we were eager to discover more.
After a drink at the bar, we were quick to explore the estate. The gloomy weather did not stop us and we could enjoy some stunning views.
Indeed, the mansion is set on 30 acres of grounds on top of the rolling Chess Valley hills.
The Atmosphere
Back inside, we could not avoid the old-fashioned typewriters and telephones as well the frames on the wall.
We stopped by the library to enjoy a bit of light, plus the view of the gorgeous gardens.
The hotel might have been refurbished, but original touches have remained and even more extraordinaires.
The original wooden staircase that leads to the deluxe rooms did not disappoint either.
Our Family Room
We got a spacious family room made of two beds.
And a bathroom with bath/ shower.
Nicely decorated with some art books and other frames, it was also very elegant.
Stanley was quick to make himself at home…as always!
I just sat down and watched him enjoying a bit of cartoon while reading about Surréalisme. It brought me back to my A-Levels years!
But the best room’s feature was definitely the view.
With a look on the back of the estate, we could also see all the valley.
Juste parfait! The room was very comfortable. We had all we needed.
The Swimming-Pool
We were quick to make the most of the pool.
And we had it just to ourselves, which was fabulous!
Indeed, because of COVID regulations, you have to book a space when you check-in. So that it is not overcrowded.
The steam room and the sauna were not operating, but I did not mind as we had the pool just for ourselves.
It was pure bliss to have this indoor space just for us. And if you are sportier, you can also make the most of the gym adjacent.
Dinner at the 1838 Restaurant
After a dip in the pool, we made it to the 1838 Restaurant. We were spoiled for choice with the menu.
I went for the Ham & Hock Parsley Crumpet and Grumpy Boyfriend got the De Vere ‘Posh’ Prawn.
And for mains, I selected the Grilled Marinated Halloumi and Grumpy salmon.
I thought I would go for something lighter so that I could also enjoy some delicious dessert.
The service was impeccable. Once more, the decor was spot on: very chic and light, blending so well with the British style of the original house.
We then had a mini stroll in the garden before heading back to our room.
Such a magical atmosphere… The grounds look stunning in the light of the early night.
Breakfast
The day after, we were back at the 1838 Restaurant. With a full cooked breakfast, but also fresh pastries and so much more.
Cheese, delicatessen, fruits… Whatever is your préféré, no doubt you will find happiness.
It was so pretty to enjoy our food inside while looking at the courtyard.
You can even have your food there.
We eventually finished our stay with a short walk to the woods at the back of the house and beaucoup de photos…
I could not stop but snap as it looked so magnifique in the sun. Et voilà, that was us done.
The De Vere Latimer Estate – Le Verdict
The De Vere Latimer did not disappoint at all. It might not be an obvious choice for families or might be more of a romantic stop.
But actually, it works so well if you have children and you fancy a chic stay in the countryside.
The house was stunning and therefore, would please any mama for some fancy photos.
The rooms are spacious and well equipped for you and all your family to be comfy.
Plus, you can enjoy the pool on a rainy day. So everyone is happy.
And if you are a bit more adventurous, you can go on a long walk on the estate. Or like me, just chillax on a deck chair with a cocktail and enjoy the Chess Valley hills.
The hotel even provides you with wellies for a bit of muddy action!
We had not been in the area for such a long time and I can not wait to come back very soon.
The villages around the De Vere Latimer Estate are absolutely sublime. England never stops to amaze me and the hotel made me dream for sure.
I will keep an eye on the other locations for future adventures.
Have you ever stayed at a De Vere Hotel before? And Buckinghamshire?
The pictures are so beautiful, I love de Vere hotels
I Have visited Buckinghamshire before but not this wonderful house, certainly one to look out for and the grounds look wonderful to explore too!
That looks wonderful, my idea of bliss, a relaxing break in gorgeous English countryside
It sound like a wonderful,place to stay and what a stunning looking building. I have heard of De Vere hotels and would love to stay in one
Looks great – lovely room – the food looks so good!
Ooh la la an amazing place – would love to stay too
It looks like an amazing place to stay and visit
This looks fab, we have stayed at a couple of De Vere Hotels so would definitely try this one!
Looks so lush! Id love to visit this place too
looks like heaven lucky you
It looks amazing. The photos are great; I’d love to go.
Looks amazing great scenery too lovely place to stay for a romantic break.