People often say that you never truly appreciate where you live until you leave and a recent visit to my hometown confirmed this. As someone born and bred in Gloucestershire I never particularly payed it much attention. I lived there for the first 25 years of my life before moving to London and as it was all I had ever known I presumed everywhere was similar. I have now lived away from Gloucestershire for 6 years and I appreciate its beauty more and more with each returning visit and none more so after a recent stay at a local hotel.
I was visiting the area for a friend’s wedding and opted to stay at a hotel instead of with my family or friends as I usually would because I knew I would be returning late at night. As I have never had to book a hotel in my hometown, I embarked on some research and one property stood out amongst the others – The Greenway Hotel and Spa.
Long before my stay, the hotel had begun the process of ensuring that I had a tailored experience. After making the booking I received an email asking exactly how I would like my room. Questions included whether I would like feather of foam pillows, if I would like extra blankets, if I would benefit from local maps left inside the room and if I would like a makeup mirror. This impressive level of detail may not seem like much, but if you are arriving around midnight as I was, it avoids the inconvenience of having to rectify any minor issue when you all want to do is sleep.
The Greenway Hotel and Spa is tucked away on the outskirts of the Cotswolds and only minutes by car from the Regency town of Cheltenham. As I arrived at the hotel and made my way down the long driveway through the eight acres of countryside, I arrived at the 16th century Elizabethan manor house.
First impressions are important, and it certainly has the wow factor. As the property is set deep within the hotel grounds it is not something you can see whilst passing thus allowing the intrigue to build as you make the journey up the long drive. Visually the hotel is stunning and instantly emanates sophistication.
If you are celebrating an occasion or simply want to treat yourself, then one of the hotels three feature suites are perfect. My room was huge comprising of a hallway, spacious bathroom with twin sinks and stand-alone bath as well as a large bedroom with a beautiful four poster bed, elegant furniture and a separate area for sitting and relaxing.
The breakfast offering at the hotel is varied and served within a beautiful dining area looking out into the pristine grounds. As well as a continental buffet there is a hot menu including a full English breakfast, eggs benedict and avocado toast. I had some items from the English breakfast and with many of the ingredients sourced locally, it was fresh and tasty.
After a long night of partying at my friend’s wedding I was determined to spend the following day relaxing in the sumptuous Elan Spa. I had booked a regenerating facial which was a wonderful experience. The skilled and knowledgeable staff gave expert advice and even ran a test to establish the exact nature of my skin before providing some premium ESPA products.
After the treatment I was free to spend the day using the rest of the facilities which include a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room, samarium and outdoor hot tub.
I was delighted with my decision to choose The Greenway Hotel and Spa. Despite passing the hotel grounds hundreds of times in the past I had no idea that such an incredible property was situated the other side of the entrance. I have been lucky enough to travel all around the world and I never expected that one of my favourite hotel experiences would be in my hometown.
The Details
The Greenway Hotel and Spa, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 4UG, England.
Tel: +44 (0)1242 862352
Website: www.thegreenwayhotelandspa.com
Email: info@thegreenway.co.uk
If driving from The North, head south on the M5. At Jct 11A, take the A417 to London/Cirencester, then the A46 exit to Stroud/Cheltenham. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Shurdington Rd (A46), then turn right onto Greenway Lane. The Greenway Hotel & Spa is signposted on your right just outside Shurdington. If driving from The South, head northeast on the M5. At Jct 11A, take the A417 to London/Cirencester. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto the A417 then take the A46 exit to Stroud/Cheltenham. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Shurdington Road (A46), then turn right onto Greenway Lane.
Type of Hotel: 4-Star Luxury Hotel and Spa
Price Band: Medium
Insider Tip: Do take advantage of the hotel’s excellent spa.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9/10
Author Bio:
Jack David is a London based music industry professional with a passion for writing and travel. He has previously written for lifestyle publications Flavourmag and tmrw Magazine.
Photographs courtesy of The Greenway Hotel and Spa
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