On Monday the 3rd of October, thirty members of The East Surrey Walkers set off for Warner's Littlecote House in Wiltshire for a 4 night break. My previous holidays with the group had been to centres which were specifically geared to walkers, whereas I knew that a Warner’s hotel would be larger and cater largely for non-walkers. I wasn’t sure what to expect!
My first impression of the house was - Wow! It is a beautiful Grade 1 Tudor manor set in expansive grounds – more of that later. Most of us checked in around 3pm, some of us having looked around the attractive town of Hungerford first. The rooms were very comfortable and attractively furnished but since there are over 100 rooms in the modern building, we had quite a trek to and from Reception each day! Well, we were there for walking after all!
On the first evening, we quickly established that Happy Hour was from 5-6pm each day so that was where most of us congregated every evening - to sort out the walking groups for the next day of course!
Breakfast next morning was wonderful – anything you could possibly want, served by charming young men! That set the standard for all the meals. It was so difficult to choose!
Now to the walks through the Berkshire and Wiltshire countryside. They were very enjoyable, including picturesque villages, woodlands, the Kennet and Avon canal, rolling hillsides, over White Horse Hill and along the Ridgeway. Thank you to all the leaders who led extremely well and returned us safely. We were lucky with the weather which was largely dry and sunny - and mild for October. Some of the group decided to take a day off from walking, for some retail therapy or to enjoy the hotel facilities.
After the day’s walk, there was plenty to do back at the hotel before Happy Hour. It was lovely to have a swim and sauna or a game of table tennis, bowls or darts in the Long Gallery of the old house. Most of us took an audio tour of the old house which has an amazing history, having links with Henry VIII and Jane Seymour, and including the rather gruesome story of the Haunted Bedroom! It was wonderful to wander freely through the house, wondering what was through the next door! There are even the remains of a Roman villa on the estate, with an impressive mosaic floor which has been preserved.
The day was not over! After dinner, in the theatre, there was always dancing and entertainment which included some talented singers. Some people chose to catch up with their book or beauty sleep whilst others partied a bit later – mentioning no names!
Tony asked us to comment on the Warner experience, as the group had not been to a Warner’s before. I got the impression that everyone had a good time. I enjoyed it, as I have enjoyed the HF holidays – quite different experiences. I think variety is good, so why not mix and match!
Thank you Tony for arranging a great holiday.
Penny Rispin
Photos by Brian Smith
{imageshow sl=13 sc=2 w=1200 /}