Business Details
3 Years
experience
Luxury Hotel in Cheltenham, Cotswolds | Cowley Manor Experimental
Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Cowley Manor Experimental embodies a historic hotel where centuries of heritage meet contemporary luxury. Originally constructed in 1695 and once owned by English kings, our Grade II-listed property has inspired artists and authors, including Lewis Carroll, whose visits to the area influenced his iconic 'Alice in Wonderland'. Today, we blend classical elegance with modern design curated by Dorothe Meilichzon, offering 36 meticulously designed bedrooms that celebrate our storied past while embracing innovation. Our C-Side Spa utilises locally sourced ingredients for transformative treatments, while our restaurant, led by celebrated British chef Jackson Boxer, showcases seasonal produce rooted in local tradition.The Experimental Groups vision has revitalised this landmark, ensuring its legacy as a haven of serenity amidst 55 acres of idyllic countryside. Guests enjoy seamless access to Cheltenhams cultural vibrancy and Londons dynamism, making Cowley Manor Experimental an ideal retreat for creating lasting memories. From our historic ballrooms to intimate spaces inspired by Carrolls whimsy, every detail reflects our commitment to preserving the timeless allure of the English countryside while redefining modern hospitality.
Services
Luxury Accommodation
Spa Treatments
Fine Dining
Event Hosting
Cocktail Bar
Gardens Exploration
Details
- Year established: 2023
Highlights and features
- We offer 300 years of historic heritage reimagined with contemporary design by Dorothe Meilichzon.
- Our C-Side Spa provides natural treatments using locally sourced ingredients for holistic rejuvenation.
- Celebrated British chef Jackson Boxer curates a menu celebrating seasonal produce and culinary innovation.
- We host exclusive events in a Grade II-listed venue surrounded by 55 acres of picturesque countryside.
- Our location offers easy access to Cheltenhams cultural attractions and Londons urban vibrancy.
Services
Luxury Accommodation
Our 36 bedrooms blend historic charm with modern design, featuring bespoke furnishings, plush bedding, and curated art. Each room reflects Cowley Manors legacy while offering contemporary comforts like high-speed Wi-Fi and luxury toiletries. Guests enjoy serene views of the Cotswolds countryside.
C-Side Spa
The spa offers rejuvenating treatments using locally sourced ingredients, including massages, facials, and body wraps. Facilities include indoor and outdoor pools, a gym, and wellness programmes designed to revitalise mind and body in a tranquil setting.
Fine Dining
Led by Jackson Boxer, our restaurant serves seasonal British and French-inspired dishes using local produce. Menus change with the seasons, highlighting Gloucestershires finest ingredients in an elegant dining room or al fresco terrace.
Event Hosting
Host weddings, private parties, or corporate events in our historic ballrooms or gardens. The venue accommodates intimate gatherings or large celebrations, with tailored catering and planning support for unforgettable occasions.
Cocktail Bar
Our bar offers signature aperitifs, fine wines, and spirits in a vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy live DJ sets on weekends or relax with pre-dinner cocktails in a space blending historic elegance with modern flair.
Questions
What makes Cowley Manor Experimental unique?
Our hotel combines 300 years of history with contemporary design, inspired by Lewis Carroll’s legacy and reimagined by the Experimental Group.
What amenities are available at Cowley Manor?
We offer luxury bedrooms, a spa using local ingredients, a seasonal restaurant, event spaces, and 55 acres of landscaped gardens.
How far is Cowley Manor from Cheltenham?
The hotel is located just a short drive from Cheltenham’s cultural attractions and within easy reach of London.
Can I host events at Cowley Manor?
Yes, we host weddings, private celebrations, and corporate events in our historic venues and gardens.
Who designed Cowley Manor’s interiors?
Dorothe Meilichzon curated the interiors, blending classical elements with bold contemporary touches inspired by the property’s history.
Reviews (5)
Gigi Grace
Jan 06, 2022
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We stayed a year ago to celebrate our wedding anniversary on a spa & stay package that included our room, dinner and a massage/use of the spa; this was to be a treat to my husband. The venue and grounds were beautiful and we received a really warm welcome at reception. We had lunch and drinks when we arrived which was all lovely. Our room was a generous size - the bathroom, in particular, was gorgeous. Sadly, we werent impressed with dinner at all - the meal was pretty bland as was the service although the setting was nice enough. We did enjoy a lovely breakfast in bed and were excited
Alice Musgrave
Jan 04, 2022
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This is a very average hotel. My husband and I stayed here for our honeymoon and the amount we paid for our room was extortionate so we were expecting luxury. As you drew up to the hotel its breathtaking, really stunning. And then you walk in to a bizarrely decorated, almost hostel type setting. Our room was a real disappointment. Bright garish blue walls and purple windows. You cant open the windows without opening the wooden doors covering them which inevitably let all the light in. The shower blasted hot and cold water and the drain was blocked. The bed was not very comfortable and the
Claire Missingham
Jan 03, 2022
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We stayed here for New Years Eve to get away from incessent fireworks displays where we live - so were very happy it was so quiet and no parties in the hotel. Lunch and dinner were both excellent, considering they must be understaffed it was good service and excellent food. Both indoor and heated outdoor pools were really lovely. The showers in the gym were cold and the changing rooms can do with a bit more TLC to keep clean, but we acknowledge that most places are currently short staffed and cannot get the same level of staff excellence so it didn't detract any of the enjoyment. Well equipped
Lee Marshall
Dec 29, 2021
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Hotel and Spa could be knock out. Its always understaffed and of those that are about - some are missing the hospitality gene - which results in lots of niggles. Tech didn't work and was fobbed off when highlighted to the front desk. Spa was unkept and showers freezing. Food is great.
Lyndsay Langdon
Dec 22, 2021
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I booked a table in the restaurant to celebrate the start of our Christmas break, we did the same last year. This year it just wasn't as good, the food or the ambience. The waiting staff were attentive, but I was very disappointed that not one of them was wearing a mask in the midst of the Omicron outbreak. I did not feel comfortable about being approached by any of the waiting staff. The food was nice enough, but not exceptional given the price tag. 15 scallops starter for just two scallops seems very expensive. The main courses were fine, but the desserts were a big let down, and honestly pretty
