Departing London
After three delightful days in London, we were ready to escape the city's lively pace for the serene UK countryside. We headed to Lucknam Park, a historic estate just outside Chippenham, promising a tranquil retreat. Traveling with a toddler is no small feat, but Lucknam Park turned out to be a dream destination, blending luxury with family-friendly charm.
We departed from London around noon, catching the train to Chippenham from Paddington station. The ride was smooth and managing our luggage was easier than expected, thanks to the spacious train layout. We recommend arriving at the station about 30 minutes early to ease any pre-travel anxiety. Upon reaching Chippenham, a quick 15 minute cab ride took us directly to the enchanting gates of Lucknam Park. (You can catch a cab right outside the train station, or the hotel can help you reserve one!)
Arriving at Lucknam Park
Arriving at Lucknam Park is nothing short of magical. As the grand doors swung open, we were greeted by a driveway lined with Beech and Lime trees, their autumn foliage ablaze in vibrant yellows and reds, creating a breathtaking tunnel of color. With each turn, the estate grew larger and more impressive, building anticipation until the majestic main building stood before us, grand and inviting. There's a certain indescribable feeling that washes over you as your car rolls under the leafy archway and up to the covered driveway; it's a mix of awe and a hint of nobility, as if stepping through the pages of a period novel.
The Palladian mansion at the heart of Lucknam Park, dating back to 1720, has been meticulously reimagined from a private residence into a top-end hotel. The estate itself sprawls across 500 acres of listed parkland, offering a glimpse into both the grandeur and the meticulous care that has preserved such a remarkable heritage. This expansive backdrop serves not just as a stunning example of English landscape but also as a sanctuary of tranquility and history, inviting guests to explore its beauty and partake in the legacy of luxury that Lucknam Park has to offer.
Our Stay at the Apple Tree Cottage
We stayed at one of their newer cottages, just a short 5-minute walk from the main building. Don't get me wrong—although these cottages are recent additions, they still capture all the traditional charm of a historic stone-built cottage.
Our accommodation at the Apple Tree Cottage was perfect for our family. It featured a practical crib for our toddler, a grill for family barbecues, and a luxurious copper tub that added a touch of elegance to our stay. The staff's dedication to service was outstanding, with every request met with a smile and a helpful hand.
The cottage's separation from the main building provided a sense of privacy that was incredibly comforting. Knowing there was no one else around made us feel particularly at ease with Samuel.
From the windows, the views of a tiny meadow and our own private garden, adorned with wildflowers around the front door, made it seem as if we had stepped into the pages of a picture book. The cottage boasted a full kitchen and a beautiful fireplace that enhanced the country vibes. The staff was always ready to help light it and brought us extra logs whenever we needed.
A Culinary Delight
First Night at the Walled Garden Restaurant
Our first evening at Lucknam Park was crowned with a delightful dinner at the Walled Garden restaurant, a culinary gem that exceed all of our expectations. As we settled into the inviting, elegantly laid-back ambiance of the restaurant, the stage was set for an evening of gastronomic pleasure.
Our meal began with a shared appetizer of bread and pulled brisket toast—an exquisite introduction that paired beautifully with the charm of the venue. The brisket was melt-in-your-mouth tender, its rich flavors perfectly offset by the crisp, freshly baked bread. This starter not only tantalized our taste buds but also perfectly set the tone for the luxurious yet comforting meal that was to follow.
For our main courses, we chose the juicy T-bone steak and a tender half chicken. Each dish was cooked to perfection, showcasing the skill and precision of the kitchen. The steak was a robust celebration of quality meat, seared just right to lock in its succulent flavors, while the half chicken was a masterpiece of tenderness and taste, its juiciness enhancing the simple yet sophisticated seasoning.
The grand finale of our meal was the Blackberry crumble for dessert, a choice that proved to be as delectable as it was wise. The crumble was impeccably balanced, with the tartness of the blackberries melding wonderfully with the sweet, crunchy topping. Each bite was a reminder of the care and passion that went into its creation, making it not just a dish, but an experience to be savored.
Dining in the Walled Garden restaurant was not just about enjoying a meal; it was about immersing ourselves in a setting that felt both contemporary and timeless. Nestled within the outdoor splendor of the estate, the restaurant provided a cozy, intimate backdrop that made our dinner truly memorable. The attentive staff, committed to excellence, ensured that our dinner was seamless and spectacular, making us feel cherished and well cared for throughout the evening.
High Tea in the Drawing Room
One of the most memorable highlights of our stay at Lucknam Park was the afternoon we spent enjoying high tea in the stunning Drawing Room. This elegant space with its tasteful decor, offered the perfect backdrop for an afternoon filled with little luxuries and lots of smiles.
As we settled into the plush, inviting sofas around a welcoming, crackling fireplace, the room felt like a warm hug. The table was beautifully set with an array of exquisitely crafted desserts and sandwiches. Each piece was not just food but an artful expression—delicate pastries bursting with sweet fillings and savory sandwiches made with the freshest of ingredients. It was a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Breaking slightly from tradition, we chose to sip on richly aromatic lattes instead of the usual tea, adding a personal touch to our high tea experience that perfectly suited our coffee-loving tastes. Our little Samuel was delighted too, cheerfully sipping on warm milk which he toasted with us, making us all chuckle.
Sitting on the cozy couches by the fire, the gentle sound of wood crackling complemented our serene setting. It was here, in this beautiful room, that we created some of our most cherished memories. Samuel’s giggles, the clink of our cups, and the soft murmur of conversation blended into a melody that defined the perfect afternoon.
Child-Friendly Features at Lucknam Park
Lucknam Park turned out to be exceptionally family-friendly, which greatly eased our concerns about traveling internationally with a toddler. The estate's thoughtful touches for families were evident everywhere we looked. The kid-friendly menu was carefully curated to cater to little ones' tastes while still offering nutritious and appealing options. They had games on the lawn outside of the restaurant so the kids could play while waiting for their meal and had high chairs available.
It wasn't just about the food; the cozy hideaway room was a haven for indoor play, beautifully equipped with toys suitable for all ages. From movies and arts and crafts to a miniature kitchen and a store, this space was a paradise for children, complete with snacks and fruits—everything a parent could wish for in a play area.
The outdoor playgrounds impressed us just as much, offering a secure and stimulating environment where our toddler could enjoy the outdoors and expend some energy. Additionally, the spa pool's designated swimming times for children were a thoughtful touch, allowing our little one to enjoy splashing about in a safe setting. This ensured our peace of mind and provided him with fun away from the quieter times reserved for adults.
Exploring the Grounds
We took full advantage of the estate's abundant activities, embracing every opportunity to explore the great outdoors at Lucknam Park. With bikes provided by the hotel, complete with toddler seats and helmets, we ventured through lush, winding trails that delivered a thrilling sense of adventure and unveiled the stunning beauty of the countryside. Our active afternoons included spirited soccer matches on the well-maintained turf, adding a touch of sporty fun to our stay.
Lucknam Park also offered hiking boots for those looking to tread the more rugged paths or not wanting to get wet, ensuring we could all comfortably explore the natural splendors of the estate. On the lawns, the hotel had set up a variety of outdoor games, creating a lively and engaging environment for guests of all ages.
While we indulged in cycling and soccer this time, the estate also boasts opportunities for horse riding and croquet, presenting unique ways to experience its expansive beauty. These are on our list for next time, promising even more fun and exploration. Each activity at Lucknam Park, whether enjoyed or earmarked for future visits, highlighted the estate’s dedication to providing a diverse range of recreational options, making every moment of our stay vibrant and full of discovery.
A Day Trip to Castle Combe Village
Before we wrapped up our stay at Lucknam Park, we ventured out on a quick day trip to Castle Combe Village, widely celebrated as one of the UK's most picturesque villages. The experience was like wandering through the pages of a classic storybook—quaint houses and narrow, winding streets painted a scene that seemed to bring to life the enchanting tales of old England.
The hotel was incredibly supportive. They arranged for a taxi to pick us up from the hotel in the morning and to bring us back after we were done, ensuring we could enjoy our outing without any logistical worries.
As we strolled through Castle Combe Village, each cobblestone street and charmingly aged facade seemed to whisper stories from centuries past. The pastoral beauty and architectural charm of the village provided a serene backdrop that captivated our imaginations and soothed our spirits. It was the perfect place to take pictures! In fact, the “most photographed” street in the UK was here!
We returned to the hotel right before noon, picked up our bags and headed to the train station back to London but with our hearts full and our minds enriched by the day’s journey.
A Memorable Getaway
Our stay at Lucknam Park Hotel was an incredible journey filled with joy, relaxation, and discovery. Each day brought new delights and serene moments that enriched our family bond and left us with cherished memories. We're eagerly looking forward to our next visit to this gem in the English countryside, confident that it promises just as much enchantment and family fun as our unforgettable first experience.
Now, we embark on the next leg of our adventure—Paris awaits!
Rosie
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