The thrill of the hunt lives on at Hambleton Hall, a former fox-hunting lodge north of London. But these days, the excitement comes from the rarest of prizes: a luxury hotel lovingly owner-operated.
EXPERIENCE
A former investment banker and current Renaissance man, Tim Hart and his wife converted Hambleton Hall from a spacious Victorian home to plush country house hotel in 1979. The 15 double bedrooms are tastefully decorated with rich linens and antique furniture, while the well-manicured hotel grounds pay aesthetic tribute to their upper-crust heritage. The sophisticated charms extend to the dining room, where Michelin-starred Chef Aaron Patterson creates subtle palate-pleasers.
The pastoral setting is perfect for indulging in outdoor recreation: perched high on a peninsula, Hambleton Hall overlooks the outdoor playground of Rutland Water, the largest man-made lake in Western Europe. Take up fishing, or cycle its scenic 25-mile perimeter, taking time to do a little birdwatching. Or, simply stay on Hambleton's well-groomed grounds for a rousing game of tennis, or dip in the pool.
2005 Restaurant of the Year - Leicestershire & Rutland Awards 2005
The 50 Best Romantic Hotspots for Lovers - The Independent February 2005
The AA - ‘Top 200' 2005
10 Top Tables - The Independent October 2004
LOCATION
Located on a scenic peninsula in Rutland county two hours north of London, Hambleton Hall is a two-hour drive from London's international airports, and an hour and a half drive from Birmingham International Airport.