Looking for a luxury family getaway that balances indulgence with child-friendly charm? Writer Emma Coxon shares her experience of a stay at The Retreat Elcot Park in West Berkshire, offering spa relaxation, fine dining, and plenty of fun for little ones too.
Words: Emma Coxon
It was early March when myself, my husband and six-year-old daughter visited The Retreat Elcot Park, a charming countryside hotel nestled between Newbury and Hungerford in West Berkshire. The days were still clinging to winter’s chill, but we were craving a break from our routines – something special yet relaxed, luxurious yet child-friendly. The Retreat delivered all that and more.
Arrival: Warmth and Wonder
We arrived on a Wednesday afternoon, the car packed with the usual mix of excitement and snacks, our daughter already asking if there’d be a swimming pool and “fun things to do.” The moment we pulled into the driveway, we knew we were in for something lovely. Elcot Park’s grand Georgian façade greeted us with understated elegance, and the warm welcome from the staff set the tone for the whole stay.
After check-in, we were invited to relax in the lounge, where I ordered a Margherita that was as expertly mixed as any I’ve had in London – zesty, smooth, and just what I needed after the drive. My husband opted for a local craft beer, while our daughter made herself at home on one of the plush velvet sofas with a colouring book offered by the staff. There was no sense of children being an afterthought here; she was welcomed as a guest in her own right.
Our Room: Cosy Comfort with a View
Our family room overlooked the rolling countryside, and although the sky was a muted grey, the landscape was still beautiful. The room itself was stylish yet practical, with soft tones, a comfortable bed for us, and a separate space set up for our daughter, complete with homemade shortbread biscuits.
Dinner to Remember
That evening, we dined at 1772, the hotel’s flagship restaurant. The atmosphere was relaxed but refined – exactly what we hoped for in a fine-dining experience that still welcomed children.
Our daughter was delighted to choose from a well-thought-out kids’ menu that went beyond the usual nuggets and chips. She settled on homemade macaroni cheese with a side of green beans, which she polished off with a chocolate brownie for dessert.
My husband ordered the hand-dived scallops to start, and after one bite, he declared them the best he’s ever had – delicate, perfectly seared, and served with a cauliflower purée that he’s still talking about weeks later. I went with the earthy and delicious mushroom soup, which was so creamy and fresh.
For mains, we couldn’t resist the beef Wellington, which was made to share. Cooked to a perfect medium-rare, it was wrapped in flaky pastry and served with a rich red wine jus and roasted vegetables. Every bite was an indulgence. I treated myself to another cocktail, this time an espresso martini and my husband enjoyed an opulent red wine, recommended by the incredibly helpful bar staff. Our waiter too couldn’t have been more accommodating and welcomed any request with a smile and the utmost professionalism.
Whilst my daughter played happily with a puzzle at the table, and enjoyed a brownie and ice cream for dessert, my husband and I could not manage another bite. It was one of those rare meals where everyone left full and happy, with no bribing or screen time required.
Morning Swim: A Chilly Adventure
The next morning, we woke early to sunshine breaking through the clouds – and the promise of the outdoor heated pool. It was still cold out, the kind of morning where you’d typically bundle up and clutch a hot drink, not strip down and step outside in a swimsuit. But the heated pool was calling, and we were up for the adventure.
Wrapped in our robes, we padded through the crisp morning air and slipped into the water, which was blissfully warm. Steam rose into the cool air as we swam under the pale blue sky, our daughter giggling and splashing with pure joy. There was something magical about the contrast: the chill on our cheeks and the soothing warmth of the water. It felt invigorating, like pressing “reset” on life. It was freezing when we got out, so a quick dash indoors and a dip in the heated hydrotherapy pool had us warmed up in no time.
Spa Time: A Facial to Remember
Later that morning, I indulged in a facial at the spa while my husband and daughter explored the gardens and found the on-site play area – a well-designed space with plenty to keep energetic little ones busy. My therapist was professional and warm, and the facial left my skin glowing, and my mind completely relaxed. Even my husband noticed my newfound radiance! The treatment room overlooked the countryside, and with the soft music and gentle lighting, I could have stayed there all day.
Breakfast and Play
Breakfast at The Retreat was just as delightful as dinner. A buffet of freshly baked pastries, yogurts, and fruit sat alongside made-to-order options. I chose smashed avocado on sourdough with poached eggs, while my husband opted for a classic full English. Our daughter was thrilled with her pancakes and berries, and once again, the staff went out of their way to make her feel welcome.
After breakfast, we returned to the play area, where she made a few friends while we sipped coffee in the fresh air. It was a slow, peaceful morning, the kind you never quite get at home.
A Bittersweet Goodbye
We checked out reluctantly, not quite ready to leave our little slice of luxury. As we loaded up the car, our daughter clutching a little bag of sweets acquired from one of the hotel’s pantries (that guests are welcome to use) and asked if we could come back “next week.” We smiled, because honestly, we were already thinking the same.
The Retreat Elcot Park had managed the rare feat of catering seamlessly to both adults seeking a touch of indulgence and children in search of fun. From the moment we arrived to the moment we left, it struck the perfect balance between luxury and comfort, elegance and ease.
We drove away feeling rested, reconnected, and just a little spoiled – in the very best way.
We stayed in a Heritage room which starts from £252 per night bed and breakfast, plus full use of the spa facilities (if booked directly).
Family rooms start from £342 per night. Find out more at retreatelcotpark.com.
See more travel and reviews from our team here.
