Cliveden House

Cliveden House, Taplow: A Comprehensive Hotel Review

Cliveden House, a magnificent Michelin Two-Key property in Taplow, United Kingdom, consistently receives high praise for its historical grandeur, stunning grounds, and exceptional service, offering guests a truly luxurious and memorable escape.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Cliveden House is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing it as "superb," "magnificent," "extraordinary," and "luxurious". Many highlight the feeling of stepping back in time to a bygone era, experiencing Downton Abbey-esque grandeur combined with modern five-star amenities. It maintains a sense of intimacy despite its 48 rooms and suites, with a sprawling mansion and vast gardens providing ample space for guests.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently rave about several aspects of Cliveden House:

• Service & Staff: The staff are frequently described as "truly exceptional," "beyond polite and helpful," and "attentive," going above and beyond to cater to guests' needs. Many staff members address guests personally, contributing to the welcoming atmosphere.
• Location & Design: The "beautiful location and premises" with "stunning grounds" are a major draw. The Italianate exterior, opulent interiors, and 376 acres of National Trust gardens and parkland are breathtaking. The house is steeped in history, offering a unique charm.
• Amenities: The well-appointed spa, including indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, and a relaxation lounge, is a significant highlight for many, with the spa having won numerous awards. The hotel also offers a variety of country sports, river excursions on vintage boats, and a popular Butler's tour detailing the house's history. The "secret pantry" for suites, hidden behind a bookshelf and stocked with wine, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks, is also a unique and loved feature.

3. Room Quality

Cliveden House offers 48 rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated and named after illustrious historical figures associated with the manor. Rooms are described as "huge and comfortable" with four-poster beds, antiques, and period pieces, seamlessly blending with modern comforts like heated bathroom floors and tablets. Deluxe rooms are noted for being "lovely and cozy" with large four-poster beds. Suites often feature marble bathrooms and spacious layouts, sometimes including a separate seating area with a fireplace and even a glorious hot tub on a terrace. The beds are frequently praised for their comfort.

4. Dining Experience

Cliveden House offers diverse dining options:

• The Cliveden Dining Room: This formal, elegant restaurant (originally the Drawing Room) overlooks spectacular formal gardens and the River Thames. It's celebrated for its "sublime" meals, "impeccable" food, and attentive, non-intrusive service. The menu focuses on English cuisine using locally sourced ingredients, with strong plant-based options. Michelin-starred chef André Garrett previously oversaw the fine-dining here, and current head chef Christopher Hannon continues to deliver exceptional quality.
• The Astor Grill: Located in the old stables, this is a more casual restaurant with a contemporary menu and a nice outdoor eating area, offering a mix of British and American fare.
• Afternoon Tea: The indulgent afternoon tea, also served in the main dining room, is very popular and considered by some to be unparalleled, featuring champagne and exquisite sweet and savory treats with stunning views of the back lawn.
• Breakfast: A wonderful breakfast buffet is served.
• The Library Bar: This cozy bar, with wood-paneled walls and large sash windows overlooking the gardens, is ideal for pre-dinner drinks or daytime tea.
• Butler's Pantry: Guests in suites may have access to a secret pantry with snacks and drinks.

5. Service & Staff

The service at Cliveden House consistently receives "exceptional" ratings. Guests report that the staff are "unmatched," "beyond polite and helpful," and "truly exceptional". They are noted for being friendly and attentive, with many staff members addressing guests by name. From the moment of arrival, with luggage delivered to rooms in wicker wheelbarrows, to thoughtful touches like cookies and water upon departure, the hospitality is a key element of the Cliveden experience.

6. Location & Accessibility

Cliveden House is situated in Taplow, Berkshire, within 376 acres of National Trust-managed Grade I listed formal gardens and parkland, offering a secluded and lush feel. It's a 20-25 minute drive from Heathrow Airport, making it convenient for international travelers. While feeling worlds away from the city, it's also well-connected, being a 40-minute drive from central London and an easy 40-minute train ride to London's Paddington Station.

The estate is close to Windsor (about a 15-minute taxi ride from Slough, Maidenhead, or Windsor train stations) and offers easy access to attractions like Windsor Castle, Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey), Oxford, and the Chiltern Hills. The joy of visiting Cliveden is often in not leaving the grounds, but a car is recommended for exploring the local area.

7. Value & Pricing

Cliveden House is positioned as an ultra-luxury, five-star hotel. Prices start at around $572 (£445) per night. While acknowledged as expensive, many guests consider the experience to be worth the cost due to the opulent surroundings, exceptional service, and historical significance. For special occasions, guests feel it is a worthwhile "treat". However, some reviewers have noted that the price didn't always align with the overall quality of the experience, especially when compared to similar hotels abroad at lower prices. Children often stay free during school holidays, making it more appealing for families.

8. Common Complaints

While generally glowing, a few recurring criticisms have been noted:

• Spa Treatment Disappointment: One guest reported a disappointing and overpriced massage, despite the beautiful spa setting.
• Room Amenities: Some rooms have been found to lack sufficient electrical plugs and easily accessible USB ports.
• Temperature Issues: A few guests mentioned that public areas and corridors could be cold, with extra heaters needed in the dining room during breakfast.
• Dining Portions/Pricing: One reviewer felt a "whole duck" dish was deceptively presented as only three slices of breast, suggesting portion control that didn't align with the price, and found other local restaurants offered better portions at a reduced price.
• Additional Charges: There have been mentions of having to pay extra for room servicing.
• Room Location: One guest noted their room was a long and complicated walk from reception.
• Minor Maintenance: A specific complaint about perished and torn silk curtains in a room was noted, though the property responded that this was being addressed.

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