For a ‘bucket list’ location or an excuse to celebrate a special occasion, you don’t necessarily need to leave the UK to experience a ‘pinch-me moment’. Here are a couple of suggestions that would make a fabulous memory for a birthday, anniversary or just a special treat with one of the world’s leading and trusted brands.
A ‘Grand Highland Fling’ - step aboard and rekindle the romance of travel riding on the Belmond Royal Scotsman. Ranking among the world’s most luxurious trains, the mahogany-clad cars marry Edwardian elegance with the comforts of a country house. Ten intricately designed carriages carry only 40 guests with en-suite cabins. Superb dining freshly prepared onboard by expert chefs using quality local ingredients and you can view the beautiful scenery from the observation car with its open-air veranda, as well as enjoying the onboard spa.
It is the ultimate slow escape!
Leave everyday life behind and step into the Scottish Highlands to enjoy distillery tours, country pursuits including fishing and shooting, stargazing, scenic guided walks and exclusive tours to castles and country estates. Delve into the great outdoors with a guided mountain bike tour or a round of golf on a world-famous course. Or perhaps enjoy a calmer pace with a yoga class set in the rugged, yet mesmerising landscape. As you watch the summer sun set, indulge in a private outdoor dinner on the shores of a glistening Scottish loch, all before stargazing under some of Europe’s darkest skies with a personal astronomer to guide you.
Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, created by celebrated chef Raymond Blanc OBE, is renowned for offering one of Britain’s finest gastronomic experiences. Situated in the picturesque Oxfordshire village of Great Milton, it is also one of the country’s most cherished 15th century manor house hotels, with 32 individually designed rooms and suites. Boasting some of the finest gardens in Oxfordshire, the outdoor spaces add another dimension to your culinary adventure.
Described as “a twist of imaginative genius," Raymond Blanc’s vision has always been one of world-class gastronomic flair and outstanding organic produce. The restaurant earned 2 Michelin-stars upon opening, 35 years ago, and has retained them every year since.
Join in on one of the daily tours or enroll in the seasonal gardening school. You will be treated to a rare insight into the many unique flowers, trees, fruit and vegetables that are grown, and even pick up a few tips and secrets from their expert gardeners. Learn to create phenomenal cuisine in a fun, relaxed setting at The Raymond Blanc Cookery School. The courses are suitable for all experience levels. From half-day introductions, or private tuition, to residential programs, dinner party master classes or children’s courses, there is something for everyone. Many courses focus on recipes important to Raymond Blanc. Discover the techniques and dishes that inspired him to become the Michelin-starred chef he is today.
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