Time stands remarkably still at Ellenborough Park, where guests step through an original 1485 door into a world of turrets, towers, and tales spanning half a millennium. Formerly known as Southam House, this architectural masterpiece has played host to British royalty, including King George III, before emerging from a multi-million-pound renovation in 2017 as one of the Cotswolds’ most prestigious retreats.

Positioned strategically on the slopes of Cleeve Hill, the estate commands breathtaking views across Cheltenham’s verdant landscape while maintaining an air of secluded tranquility. Modern luxury seamlessly blends with historical gravitas, creating an atmosphere that feels less like a hotel and more like a private manor house where every corner holds centuries of stories.

A legacy of distinction Archaeological evidence suggests human settlement in this prime location dates back to 2000 BC, though the current manor’s story began in the 1400s. Named after the Earl of Ellenborough, the property has served various distinguished purposes, including a period as an exclusive girls’ school, before its triumphant rebirth as a luxury hotel in 2011. The 2017 renovation further elevated its status, securing its position among Britain’s finest country house hotels.

Accommodation

The hotel houses 61 rooms across multiple categories. Classic Rooms feature king-sized Hypnos beds, underfloor heating, and modern amenities including Chromecast-enabled televisions and Nespresso machines. Bathrooms offer either walk-in showers or traditional roll-top baths, stocked with Noble Isle toiletries.

Period features such as exposed beams and stone walls remain intact throughout. Several suites provide separate living areas, while garden rooms include private outdoor spaces. Interconnecting options accommodate families or groups requiring multiple rooms.

Dining

The wood-panelled restaurant provides an elegant backdrop for thoughtfully crafted cuisine. Executive chefs demonstrate skilled handling of seasonal British ingredients, with evening service striking an impressive balance between tradition and contemporary flair.

Starters
The cauliflower velouté arrives as a refined take on comfort food, with burrata mozzarella adding luxurious richness and the truffle toastie providing satisfying depth. The oak-smoked salmon starter particularly impresses, matching precisely carved fish with bright clementine, crisp fennel, and cleverly pickled radish – a dish that demonstrates both technical skill and flavour understanding.

Main Course
The 16oz dry-aged chateaubriand for two showcases the kitchen’s expertise with premium cuts. The meat arrives with textbook timing, displaying careful aging and precise temperature control. Three plump king prawns in chilli and garlic butter provide a considered seafood element, while the truffle and parmesan fries merit special mention – crisp, fluffy, and deeply satisfying.

Desserts
The passion fruit soufflé demonstrates technical excellence, rising tall and even, with a light texture that many similar establishments struggle to achieve. Its pairing with mango iced parfait shows thoughtful temperature and flavour balance. The sticky toffee pudding upholds its classic status – properly dense yet light, complemented beautifully by a crisp brandy snap and proper clotted cream ice cream.

Breakfast
The Cotswold English breakfast stands out for its carefully curated ingredients, including exceptional Gloucestershire old spot sausages and characterful Stornoway black pudding. The Eggs Royale deserves particular praise – perfectly poached eggs draped in silky Hollandaise sauce, demonstrating the kitchen’s consistency from morning to night.

Spa facilities

The spa occupies a listed building, which creates certain limitations. The modest-sized facility includes standard thermal amenities – sauna, steam room, and relaxation area. During busy periods, the space can feel confined. The outdoor heated pool provides year-round swimming, and the surrounding area offers relaxing lounging space.

Treatment rooms provide space for the expected spa services. The fitness centre, while compact, contains essential equipment for basic workout routines. The estate’s extensive grounds offer additional exercise opportunities.

Activities

The hotel provides private access to Cheltenham racecourse and maintains a boot room stocked with Hunter wellies and Dubarry walking boots. Additional activities include archery, rifle shooting, and duck herding, available through advance booking.

Service

The levels of service are exemplary. Staff demonstrate a genuine level of care and maintain professional standards at all times. Response times remain consistent even during peak periods. Particularly noteworthy is the depth of historical knowledge possessed by long-serving staff members, who share fascinating details about the manor’s heritage. The welcome is warm, the rooms are meticulously clean, and the experience is elevated by the exceptional service.

The verdict

Ellenborough Park delivers a solid five-star country house hotel experience, balancing historical architecture with modern requirements. While certain areas – particularly the spa – show spatial limitations, the property functions effectively as a luxury countryside retreat. Room rates reflect the Cotswolds location and service level, with peak season commanding premium prices.