Disclosure: Our stay at Hawkstone Hall was complimentary but as always all opinions are my own. This page may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your continued support.
Unexpectedly nestled in a tiny Shrewsbury village, Hawkstone Hall is a 18th century Grade-1 listed mansion set within 88 acres of garden. The property was in a state of disrepair when it was bought by The Distinctly Hospitable Group in 2017, but has since been extensively renovated and restored to its former glory. It was only in April 2019 when Hawkstone Hall & Gardens opened its doors to guests for the first time in the building’s 550 year history.
Our first impression was a good one as we were buzzed through the gated entrance onto the Hawkstone estate. A mile-long drive greets you. Meander through woodland, pass by a golf course, before the sprawling country mansion comes into view. It’s a breathtaking entrance.
It’s easy to see why Hawkstone Hall & Gardens is such a popular wedding venue.
The Rooms
There are 37 bedrooms in total, including 12 luxury suites named after British artists, writers, poets and playwrights. We stayed in the Austen suite, a room beautifully decorated with subtle nods to the English novelist. It was a very fitting ‘theme’ considering the whole hotel looked like it belonged in a romance novel.
Our suite was huge: complete with a super king-size bed; enormous en-suite bathroom; plus a freestanding cast-iron bath. There was no mini bar which was a surprise for a hotel of this standard, but guests staying in Luxury Suites do get unlimited access to ‘the pantry’ for fresh treats, sweets and chilled soft drinks. The complimentary turn down service was *chef’s kiss* – can I have a freshly baked cookie left on my pillow every night please?
Dining at Hawkstone Hall
On our first evening we enjoyed a cocktail in The Library before heading to one of the oldest parts of the main house for dinner. The Saloon restaurant offers a relaxed fine dining experience using seasonal ingredients from local Shropshire farms. There were only a handful of other guests, making it a really intimate dining experience despite the grand interior. The service was very relaxed, with plenty of time in-between courses to take in your surroundings.
The Grounds
After dinner, we sat in the gardens to watch the sunset. There’s 88 acres of garden to explore at Hawkstone Hall, with winding paths leading through orchards, manicured lawns and a forest area. It’s such a romantic setting for a couple’s getaway. Head over to my Instagram and watch my latest Reel to see more footage of the gardens.
Afternoon Tea
The following day we were thrilled to be seated in The Saloon restaurant again for Afternoon Tea. So many places in the UK offer Afternoon Tea, but very few are hosted in such palatial surroundings. We opted for the Traditional menu but there is also a vegan, guilt-free and a gentlemen’s option available.
I’m usually a savoury person, and while the selection of finger sandwiches were delicious, the sweet tier was another level! We tucked into lemon drizzle cake, chocolate mousse, strawberry cake and a slice of battenburg before moving onto scones, clotted cream and homemade raspberry jam. It’s making me hungry just thinking back to it.
We had such a wonderful stay at Hawkstone Hall & Gardens. The hotel is the perfect combination of intimate luxury and Downton Abbey style charm. I already can’t wait to revisit when the spa opens in 2022!
The Details:
Where? Hawkstone Hall & Gardens, Weston, Shrewsbury, SY4 5UZ
£££? Rooms from £269, based on two people sharing
How? Click here to book.
Dog Friendly? Yes!