We visited in the last few days before lockdown 2 and as we arrived we were treated to such an amazing setting that immediately the family settled into a relaxed but excited mood.

Our welcome was perfect and the staff couldn’t do enough for us, we all felt totally safe and cared for. The food and drink was excellent and they were perfectly happy to cater for my sons specific needs while keeping us topped up with some first rate cocktails.

The spa was very relaxed and we even managed a swim in the outdoor (historic) pool. We were driven to the tennis courts to save us having to walk too far (despite my embarrassment), and collected, again no hint of inconvenience from the staff.

We were so impressed by how the staff managed to look after us and make us feel like the only guests in the world despite the amount of prep they must have been doing and how much worry they must have had for the lockdown.

Thank you so much, especially Andre, cant wait to return for a special occasion

We were greeted by an extremely warm welcome, with our bags being collected and the car parked right next to the front door. Our little dachshund, Audra, was treated to lots of cuddles as we all emerged into the great hall that is steeped in history and controversy.

From here, we were shown to our room, the Canning suite, and had a bottle of champagne waiting for us, to celebrate our anniversary and my birthday. Ahead of us, our bags were already in the dressing room and we gave our bottle of Chateau Latour 1981 ready for dinner.

Moments later, we received a call to ask whether we wanted the wine decanted in advance, and ready for our delicious tasting menu in the Cliveden Dining room restaurant.

After having sipped our champagne, we quickly took a walk through the fantastic grounds before heading for dinner, in which the food was delicious. The staff were extremely friendly and keen to hear feedback on each of the 7 courses while remaining respectful to not interrupt our dinner date. We then retired, nightcap drinks in hand, (fetched from the library bar) to the room with the dog happily napping on her dog bed (that was provided and set up complete with towel, dog bags etc by the hotel) and warming by the grand fireplace that was in the suite.

Day two was equally brilliant, with breakfast set up in the hall due to us having the dog with us. Nothing was too much trouble for the staff, who were attentive and polite throughout. We then spent the day exploring the grounds, relaxing in the spa with indoor and outdoor pools and dining in the Astor restaurant, where Audra picked the fillet steak for her dinner off the dog menu. Even having the extra food delivered up to our room along with more drinks.

Given that we stayed on the last day before the second lockdown started, we were delighted to find out that we could have a full breakfast feast served in our room. With barely enough space left in our bellies from the night before, we watched the world pass by through the windows of the warm Canning suite, with picturesque views over the french gardens. The staff even noticed that we hadn't ordered tea or coffee so called ahead to find out if we wanted them served with breakfast. A small touch that makes a big difference.

As our time at Cliveden was rapidly coming to an end, we had the porter come and pick our bags and pack the car for us, and received a wonderful gift bag from the staff on departure.

I want to thank Francisco, Duarte, John and the excellent staff of Cliveden for making this time such a special break, especially considering what is going on in the world at the moment.

Thanks for a lovely lunch break, food was fabulous, the staff were welcoming and attentive and the setting in the Astor Grill (the old stables) warm and friendly. Bonus of course is the fabulous gardens and the grand entrance.