Always on the look out for that countryside escape for incentives, team building and conferences. We recently visited both Horwood House and Hothorpe Hall, perfectly situated in the midlands region and suitable for both southern and northern based clients looking for a central based venue.
Horwood House (Milton Keynes) - has been part of the Buckinghamshire landscape since the 18th century, although the current manor house was built in 1911, adjacent to the original rectory.
Horwood remains an important example of the Arts and Crafts style and is now a grade II listed building. A recent £6 million renovation was carefully managed to preserve the unique features of the manor house and surrounding courtyard of thatched cottages.
The contemporary extension, which houses most of the bedrooms, has also been designed with the original vernacular dictating the style and decor. The grounds are also a significant part of the Horwood experience, also an example of early 20th century Arts and Crafts style gardens and park. One of the original architects, Blow, designed the layout: a series of formal gardens, including a Lilypond, walled garden and woodlands.
The structure and a great deal of the planting has been preserved, most likely due to the head gardener, Harry Thrower, who was responsible for maintaining the grounds and managing the allotment which supplied the kitchen all year round with seasonal fruit and veg - a philosophy that continues in our own kitchens, where we use local, seasonal produce wherever possible.
Perhaps the most famous resident of Horwood House is Harry’s son, Percy thrower, who was the first ‘celebrity’ TV gardener and who popularised the past time in the UK throughout the 1950s and beyond.
The interiors at Horwood, both old and new, reflect the botanical heritage with delicate prints on a backdrop of earthy tones. They've taken great care to create a luxurious, modern environment which provides every comfort for guests, while retaining Horwood’s ‘deep rooted’ (couldn’t resist that), heritage.
Perfectly placed just outside of Milton Keynes with easy access to the M1. It boasts 38 acres of land, 15 different purpose meeting spaces, lawns and garden spaces for receptions and team builds as well as being able to host up to 270 guests.
A great option for those based in the South and the Midlands for conferences, kick offs and incentives.
Hothorpe Hall (Leicestershire)
Situated near the historic market town of Market Harborough. Hothorpe is a grand Georgian country manor house positioned in a rural location on the border between Leicestershire and Northamptonshire. Currently under extensive renovation, the Hall is aiming to be open for events and stays in the next 12-18 months. It is set to be an incredible venue for events in that region.
However, also on the stunning estate is The Woodlands. Offering a unique and enchanting forest setting surrounded by nature. Giving events both outdoor and indoor options. You can enjoy exclusive use of The Woodlands’ full facilities and accommodation across your event. The Luxury Tipi provides an impressive centrepiece to the site, perfect for drinks receptions or evenings by the fire. Our outdoor ceremony area and our indoor venue provide flexibility if the weather calls for a Plan B.
A stunning venue surrounded by tranquil woods, with a private woodland village to accommodate your guests, an impressive treehouse suite, your own luxury tipi, an outdoor kitchen, and licensed indoor and outdoor events spaces. Close to both A14, M11 and the M1 with plenty of parking space.