Unveiling The Vineyard: An Exquisite 5-Star Haven in Newbury, Berkshire

In the heart of picturesque Newbury, nestled just an hour from London, lies The Vineyard, an opulent haven curated by Sir Peter Michael. With 25 years of timeless elegance, this distinguished 5-star retreat features luxurious rooms, an exquisite spa, and a gastronomic journey of unparalleled artistry.
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Aleks Bond

Luxury Travel Editor at The Executive Magazine

Nestled just an hour away from the bustling heart of London, The Vineyard emerges as an opulent jewel on the outskirts of Newbury. This extraordinary establishment, under the stewardship of the distinguished Sir Peter Michael, promises an exclusive and bespoke sojourn for every discerning guest. With 49 resplendent chambers and suites, an indulgent spa, and an epicurean experience featuring a divine 5-course tasting symphony, The Vineyard transcends into a realm of its own.

What truly distinguishes The Vineyard is its veritable trove of art, boasting one of the United Kingdom’s most extensive private collections. Notable luminaries such as Ronald Searle, alongside sculptors Michael Thacker and Henry Moore, grace the halls. Having recently marked its silver jubilee, The Vineyard’s lavish abodes remain a testament to unrivalled refinement.

However, it is the resplendent wine sanctuary that truly sets The Vineyard apart. A staggering array of 30,000 bottles, sourced from both the venerable Old World and the vibrant New, converges with elixirs from Sir Peter Michael’s Winery in California. This enological haven invites guests to satiate their vinous passions from the very threshold. Indeed, wine permeates every facet, from the moment one steps upon the Californian terroir-infused glass floors at the lobby’s threshold.

The interiors themselves are a paean to oenophilia. Six chambers bear the namesake of wines from the ‘Peter Michael Winery,’ while others pay homage to illustrious vintages. Adorned with intricate cork wallpaper, the rooms don either a ‘red wine’ or ‘white wine’ motif, with playful placards beseeching ‘Time to Top me Up’ and ‘Wine Down’ heralding the advent of room service. For those drawn from their sanctuaries, the allure of the All Angels Vineyard beckons for exploration.

Within The Vineyard Restaurant, gastronomy ascends to an apotheosis, harmoniously resonating with an august wine selection. The culinary narrative reverberates with echoes of the hotel’s Californian lineage, whilst sourced from local piscators, cultivators, and the verdant herb garden. Mastermind Executive Chef Tom Scade crafts a dynamic menu that ebbs and flows with the seasons, culminating in an inimitable epicurean voyage. Each plate finds its sublime counterpart in a luscious libation or a bespoke cocktail. Whether a connoisseur or one who simply enjoys a well-paired vintage, The Vineyard’s maestros assure a seamless union.

For those seeking respite, the spa unfurls an oasis of serenity, wherein guests depart imbued with a palpable sense of renewal and tranquility. In tandem with Elemental Herbology, the spa forges a partnership with the eminent natural skincare label, Irene Forte. Mirroring The Vineyard’s staunch commitment to environmental stewardship, ingredients are ethically culled from Irene Forte’s organic Sicilian estate. Housed in reusable glass vessels, the products proudly bear the banner of vegan friendliness.

In ethos and action, Irene Forte mirrors The Vineyard’s noble crusade for environmental conservation. An ECOSmart Accreditation (Silver Award) champions the cause, joined in arms with Climate Care to curtail greenhouse emissions, while glass triumphs over single-use plastic. Five EV charging stations stand sentinel, whilst the edifice itself stands testament to a dedication to sustainable materials. Local philanthropies find fervent support within the team’s embrace.

In the near future, The Vineyard shall unfurl an annual ode to art, ushering in a weekend of revelry and cultural indulgence. Concurrently, wine enthusiasts shall be regaled with masterclasses and cellar sojourns, promising an experience of unparalleled connoisseurship.

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