Driving up the winding, woodland path to the Bowood Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort in Wiltshire, made me feel like I’d been transported to movie set in the British countryside.

The beautiful setting with wild deer meandering around made for a magical approach — and that was just the beginning. 

My husband and I were lucky enough to experience this masterclass in modern hospitality, from the championship fairways to the sanctuary of its award-winning spa and its flagship restaurant… and we only had to travel an hour.

Room with a view

Our expansive room featured high ceilings and large windows that framed the golf course and woodlands. The decor struck a perfect balance between country house heritage and chic boutique and was extremely comfortable with its king-size bed and high quality linens. 

The spacious bathroom featured a walk-in rainforest shower and deep bathtub. A perfect place to unwind and with cozy bathrobes and slippers provided, I wasn’t the only one walking the halls to the spa wearing them. 

Relax at the spa

While the spa at Bowood is renowned for its glass-fronted infinity pool and crystal steam room, it is the signature ‘Brush with Heaven’ treatment that sets it apart.

As someone whose ticklish tendancies keeps them from regular massages or spa treatments the thought of being brushed for an hour and a half made me a little nervous. However, I shouldn’t have been. 

This 90-minute ritual is designed for those looking to disconnect from the digital world. Unlike traditional deep-tissue massages that can sometimes feel like a workout this was an exercise in total surrender.

The therapist used a unique hands-free approach, employing soft, specialized brushes and warm body oil The initial gentle body brushing stimulates the lymphatic system before transitioning into rhythmic, sweeping strokes. It concluded with a dedicated facial and scalp massage — which I had to be woken up for — also performed entirely with brushes.

Gastronomy at The Shelburne Restaurant

Dining at Bowood’s flagship Shelburne Restaurant (holder of two AA Rosettes) was a sophisticated but decidedly unstuffy affair. 

After a cocktail at the library bar we were were shown to our table in the main dining room and we weren’t disappointed. 

Under the direction of Executive Head Chef Rupert Taylor (who trained under Heston Blumenthal), the restaurant focuses on elevated British cuisine with a heavy emphasis on local Wiltshire sourcing. The Stokes Marsh Farm filet steak was to die for as was the grilled monkfish.

Breakfast was also a delight as we ate while looking out onto the golf course and view of the woodlands. 

Countryside chic

To end our stay, we decided to venture into the grounds for a rainy walk. Having left the wellies and umbrellas at home (wishful thinking for the British weather) we thought we’d have to stick to the paved terrain. 

But there were even a selection of high quality boots available for guests, along with branded umbrella’s to keep their guests dry. 

The Bowood managed to stand out in a crowded market of luxury country hotels. It was impeccably clean, warm and welcoming and felt like a private sanctuary…. next time, we will stay longer.