One of the parts I’ve most enjoyed sharing on FitnessOnToast are the active escapes. Often though, to see the places in my posts requires a cheeky flight; but for my British readers today, good news! Just 30 minutes south-west of London, lies the gorgeous country estate of Coworth Park – the scene of an exquisite healthy weekend escape. I’ve already written about ‘The Benefits of Horse Riding‘ in my previous post, so you’ve seen a glimpse of the healthy activities on offer here, but there’s so much more to do! This post collects up some of my favorite moments from the escape, and gives a little peak into the Coworth world! (MORE…)
British countryside pursuits are somewhat different to traditional workout activities. Shooting, fishing, hunting and riding all involve interaction (in some form or another) with nature, whilst most activities I pursue on the blog are far more introspective; its human + animal, as opposed to human vs weights! During my weekend stay at Coworth Park, I was able to indulge both; horse riding and laser-clay shooting, as well as a spot of tennis, gym and spa. As part of the illustrious Dorchester Collection, the execution of every facet at this gorgeous country manor is immaculate, and the service is so courteous and attentive that you can’t fail to unwind! It’s every bit 5-star but it doesn’t feel remotely pretentious – almost as if you’re visiting someone’s welcoming countryside home. And whilst you’re only 30 mins away from the beautiful chaos of London, you feel totally transported to a faraway forest-land that simply must be in another country! Here follow my highlights:
1) THE SPA COMPLEX
For me, one of the truly outstanding parts of the hotel is their standalone wellness facility, which is elegantly perched on the hillside. In keeping with the well-judged subtlety of the staff, you never hear about how big it is or how many treatment professionals there are; more important is that you’re put utterly at ease and are able to relax. The place is immaculate and super-well equipped, with a generous steam room adjoining a rainbow-lit pool, and a bright Technogym fitness facility kitted out with their architect-designed equipment! Also interesting is the unusually broad range of spa products available for you to sample after the workout – you’re typically limited to a single brand, but Coworth has brilliantly stocked 8 of the finest, by my count! Combine that with super fluffy robes, ample fruit-infused water, a vast menu of treatments and an awesome Spa-tisserie (healthy snack bar) and this Spa is a full-on recharge!
2) THE EQUESTRIAN CENTRE:
I already wrote about this in my previous post, but it remains a big differentiator. The investment in, and maintenance of, a superb equestrian facility is unique amongst luxury hotels. Three experienced riders permanently staff the facility and care for their complement of Olympic-trained horses (as well as some more gentle souls), filling you with the confidence required to take them by the reins and explore the rolling countryside, in any season! At £75/hour, it’s not 5-star priced, so if you ride, give it a go!
3) THE FOOD
Whilst there’s no breakfast buffet (I’d guess there are too few rooms to make it economical), there is a big menu of proper healthy options; think egg-white omelettes, low-sugar mueslis, gluten-free toasts, berry extraordinaires etc. There are a few venue choices for dinner as well, with a Michelin starred restaurant in the Mansion House, and a more relaxed, hearty affair at The Barn. Both offered me healthy options too, so I never struggled to stay on track!
4) THE ROOMS
Rich in countryside charm, but instantly speaking of a modern, clean and fresh aesthetic, the rooms are simply awesome. Vast luxurious beds, sumptuous Egyptian-cotton sheets, crushed silk detailing, and personal touches in each room, it feels like a relaxation masterclass! The rose gold-coloured freestanding baths are superb for a soak, and it all fits together to create a super cosy ‘countryside’ feel.
5) OTHER FITNESS ACTIVITIES
It’s not just about riding and the gym. You can also;
– go for long power walks around the woodlands
– go biking on their collection of bikes
– navigate around their mapped-out running routes
– enjoy a game of tennis on their astro court adjacent to the Mansion House.
– get all Quasar with a little laser clay-pigeon shooting
– go for a round of golf, with the world class courses of Wentworth and Sunningdale almost literally on their doorstep.
– play some Polo on one of their two Polo fields
– croquet, whilst perhaps not the most aerobics lily demanding of ventures, is also on offer in the summer, as is archery, falconry and fencing! They have it all 👍😁
For those visiting London, it’s well worth extending the trip by a few days to include a weekend here. If you’re already in the UK, this is a fantastic active escape that won’t disappoint those desperately seeking relaxation!
Faya x
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