The Grosvenor Hotel, Stockbridge Reviewed

Beautifully placed in the quintessential Test Valley, The Grosvenor provides a striking Georgian figure in the centre of Stockbridge. Hailing from the early 19^th Century, the building is steeped in local history and takes its name from a local Lord who helped sculpt the idyllic town into the spot it is today. The historical building is experiencing a complete remodelling and from what we have seen, something very special is happening at The Grosvenor. The restoration aims to sympathetically renovate every bedroom, with subtle nods to the history of the building, whilst offering modern luxuries you would expect from a high-end hotel.

Our visit saw us experience a brand-new suite at the destination and it is simply beautiful. The “Hayloft” suite is the flagship example of the opulence and class you can expect across the hotel once renovations are complete.

A stunning king-sized bed, adorned with Egyptian cotton, makes just one of many talking points in the suites sleeping area. At the base of the bed sits a resplendent standalone bath for that added layer of decadence.

But that’s not all, a tastefully decorated living area, dining area and kitchenette provides a homely environment within which you can relax or entertain. You even have the option of having breakfast in your suite, should you wish for a little privacy. All in all, this is a shining example of how stunning modern features can be combined with historical architecture for wonderful results. For example, the juxtaposition of the original stone walls and gleaming brass style taps are just a couple of details that show that past and present can work in harmony. We’ve also been told that more renovations are set for 2020, so expect far more triumphs like this going forward.

The Grosvenor continues to impress in the Danesbury Dining Room (pictured below). Named by Tom Cannon (jockey-turned-trainer and former owner of The Grosvenor) after the horse races that were held on the neighbouring Danesbury Down. In the evening, this beautiful oak panelled room, complete with low candle lit, makes for a charming and romantic space.

You can expect a menu which utilises as many local Hampshire ingredients as possible, including the famous River Test trout and freshly baked bread from the Hoxton bakery, to name a few. We enjoyed a beautiful 28-day aged fillet steak sourced locally from Hampshire during our meal – soft, tender and full of flavour. Looking for something a little different, I opted for the crab risotto, with soft shell tempura crab, pickled crab and king prawns. Rich, perfectly prepared and indulgent! Each dish worked superbly and was executed excellently, we will certainly be back for seconds in the near future.

To book your stay, please visit their website.