TIME TO CHILL

Fancy a massage? Leisurely swim in the pool? Or to just wind back on a lounger with a glass of fizz and a good book? Here’s your place. Studley’s Stables Spa is truly impressive. Muddy recently went along to try out the My Kinda Morning package and started the day with a mouth-watering breakfast platter brimming with fresh fruit, pastries, meats and cheeses before squeezing into bikinis, going for a dip and wallowing in the steam room, sauna and jacuzzi. Treatments use the heavenly Temple Spa products and I can confirm the ‘back and facial sensation’ included one of the most relaxing massages I’ve ever had. We’ve bagged Muddy readers 20% off the My Kinda Morning package on Mondays and Fridays – yes, of course you deserve it. Quote Muddy20% when booking.

THE PERFECT BASE

If you’re looking for a hub where you can explore all the best Warwickshire and the Cotswolds has to offer, you’ve found it. There’s more than 200 rooms at the hotel which include historic suites in the Victorian manor, a new wing, stables and lodges. It’s perfectly positioned for exploring Shakespeare’s town Stratford-upon-Avon and catching a show at the RSC, wandering around picturesque Henley-in-Arden (make sure you stop for a break at Henley Ice Cream), exploring Warwick Castle or heading to Broadway on the edge of the Cotswolds for a leisurely walk around the tower.

…OR DON’T GO ANYWHERE

There’s plenty of reasons to stay put and just take in your relaxing environment. Borrow one of the free-to-use Pashley bikes and take a ride around the grounds, take part in archery, crossbow and shooting sessions, play pitch and putt, or for something a little more zen take part in pilates or yoga classes in the spa studio. My favourite option? Whiling away a few hours with a decadent champagne afternoon tea and some board games.

BIG NAME ENTERTAINMENT

In recent months this former castle has played host to the likes of Lulu and Scouting for Girls and there’s always some great acts on from comedy to live music. Entertainment is on every night in the Evesham Restaurant and you can book entire breaks including breakfast and dinner – so all you have to think about is bringing your snazziest dancing shoes. If you’re looking for a slower pace head to The Arden Cafe & Bar where you’ll usually find a pianist tinkering away on the keys while you sit back and enjoy a glass of wine, or two, or hey, wouldn’t it make sense to just get the bottle?

SCOFF & QUAFF IN STYLE

If you like good food and drink (silly question, who doesn’t?) then you’ve got your pick of two restaurants, numerous bars and lounges. Check out The Market Kitchen in the Evesham Restaurant, which is inspired by local and seasonal produce and includes British, Indian and Italian menus – so that should keep everyone happy. Head over to Brasserie 32 for traditional English dishes given an upgrade – think Loch-reared trout with tenderstem broccoli, chunky chips, capers, tomato and tarragon butter or a classic prawn cocktail – using a recipe from the 1960’s no less. For cocktails and craft ales head to The Oak Room with its chandeliers and wood panelling, or before it gets too dark head to The Garden Room with its cool and quirky Chesterfield sofas and feather lamps to take in the magnificent views with a perfectly made G&T.

5 reasons we love Studley Castle

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