GARDENING – WI TH CAMI L LA BASSE T T-SMI TH


the 19th century. Lost in the 1920s, it has since been restored with some of the original iron hoops being found along with heritage trees. Wildlife rich, it is home to a plethora of pears from ‘Conference’ to ‘Beurre Hardy’ and an abundance of apples such as ‘Fiesta’, ‘Red Falstaff’, ‘James Grieve’ and ‘Claygate Pearmain’.


The Thames runs alongside the estate and a Champagne cruise aboard ‘Suzy Ann’ built in 1911 is a perfect way to relax and take in the surrounds. Our captain was most knowledgeable and between sips of bubbles (our sips not his!), we learnt of Queen Victoria’s many visits and the grand stone steps built specially for her to reach Cliveden’s shore in a manner befitting her position.


Back on dry land and inside the Cliveden Spa, horticulture is heavenly, inspiring the many treatments on offer. My warm oil massage was awash with jasmine, wildflowers, mint and lime with a strawberry and raspberry base. (Sounds like a cheesecake, only I don’t like cheesecake and this was blissful!). Never mind the meeting of a stunner and a politician, the bonding of a potato and mango in the spa restaurant afterwards was a combination to be celebrated. Dinner in the suave Andre Garrett Restaurant also provided some delicious produce, from citrus cream-filled courgette flowers to beetroot salad to beat the best!


Elegant and extravagant, a visit to this estate is not to be missed and will certainly ensure you are the talk of the town!


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