Set in the heart of some of England’s least discovered, yet most beautiful countryside, West Dorset, Moonfleet lies at the end of a winding two mile lane
Overlooking the world famous Chesil Beach and the Fleet Lagoon, the handsome Georgian Manor presides over a naturally inspirational location, which has recently gained World Heritage status.
Moonfleet is like no other hotel you will ever visit; what makes it so appealing is its warmth of welcome to families. Sister hotel to Woolley Grange, Fowey Hall and The Ickworth Hotel the four are known as Luxury Family Hotels. All specialise in looking after busy parents who need a break with their children – stylish luxurious adult comforts; naturally including good food, combined with a sense of tranquillity. Yet providing for children of all ages with games, activities and new friends! All the hotels have a supervised den, a free service offered to all young guests.
Jenny Simmons finds out more….
Finding out I was to be the lucky journalist in the office to take a short break to Moonfleet Manor, my heart skipped a beat and I remembered what it was I loved so much about my job! Our family hadn’t braved more than a night away since my youngest was born 12 months ago and I knew therefore it was going to be a holiday to remember.
As soon as I got home I was showing my husband the pictures – I was like an excited child about to go away on my first school trip. Packing was easy as I knew Moonfleet provided cots, highchairs, baby food, milk and would even sterilise Maisy’s bottles – it was so nice not having to lug around bags and the usual paraphernalia.
There is a country house style with large log fireplaces, and the hotel atmosphere was warm and welcoming as we walked into the reception. I usually find being away with children is more exhausting than staying at home, but something was telling me this weekend was going to be different!
I got the children off to sleep easily and found myself and my husband, Bill, creeping out of the room with grins on our faces, desperate to go and explore. We knew our little ones were being listened to through a speakerphone service, so even just a murmur or cry meant we were going to be told. It was straight into the gorgeous Mediterranean style restaurant to enjoy some exquisite food….
The next day was also lovely; we took a trip to the outdoor play area to enjoy the sandpit, climbing frame, slide and swings. Michael and Maisy loved it and played with many other happy children – it was like the meeting of the little people.
Then we went to the nearby Chesil Beach and walked along the shingle. Back in the hotel with the children, we looked at the library of Beano and Dandy annuals, tried card tricks and generally had a fun time. It was an action packed day for them, and again we all had an excellent night’s sleep.
What is so great about Moonfleet Manor is that they understand not only the need for time together as a family but also for quality time for the parents. The on-site crèche, called ‘the den’, is open all year round and free of charge to residents. As we arrived at the crèche we were greeted by friendly nannies. Other children were drawing, painting and playing and Michael and Maisy didn’t even notice us saying goodbye. Then for us it was straight to the Spa!
This was the ultimate pampering experience. With such a wide range of beauty treatments to choose from, facials to massage, aromatherapy to manicures, I could have stayed there all day but we just had time left to fit in a swim. The pool area had a sauna (towels provided from reception). We were already discussing when we could re-visit as we were packing up for our journey home. We left feeling relaxed and energised and Michael and Maisy slept peacefully all the way home!
For more information visit www.luxuryfamilyhotels.com or telephone 01305 786948.
