Manor from heaven for a mum-to-be and toddler
With a lively three-year-old to look after and a second child on the way, I'd pretty much abandoned any hope of finding somewhere to enjoy a relaxing break --until I stumbled across Calcot Manor.
A child-friendly hotel with a spa where mothers-to-be can be specially pampered? Well, that sounded just what the midwife ordered.
Calcot Manor is a converted farmhouse set in 220 acres of glorious Gloucestershire countryside. We booked in to the Woodchester suite, which features wooden floors, two comfortable bedrooms, a fridge (essential when you have little ones) and even an espresso machine - perfect for coffee addicts like me.
Time for mothers: Mum Margarita Madden with son Lucas
But for my son Lucas, only one thing mattered - the waterproof television in the enormous bathroom. For him, being able to watch CBeebies while splashing about in the bathtub was the most amazing thing ever.
On the day of our arrival, we learned that Princes William and Harry were playing at the nearby Beaufort Polo Club, so my husband David, Lucas and I decided to watch the match and mingle with the crowds, hoping to catch a glimpse of a few famous faces such as Kate Middleton. No such luck - if there were any there, they were keeping a low profile.
In the evening we enjoyed a fantastic meal at Calcot Manor's Conservatory restaurant. I'm particularly fond of desserts and couldn't resist the home-made ice cream. David tried the vanilla and rum pannacotta with caramelised banana. Needless to say, I helped him finish it.
Pampered: Calcot Manor Hotel and Spa has something for all the family
After breakfast the following morning, I had my pre-natal spa treatment. While Lucas and David went to the indoor Playzone, I had a complete body massage.
As my therapist Kate worked methodically on my tired muscles, I became so relaxed that I almost fell asleep. The massage also helps by increasing circulation and skin elasticity, and by reducing water retention. If I'd had more time I would have chosen to extend my pampering session with a manicure and a pedicure but I'd already promised to join the boys for a late-morning bike ride.
My bicycle was carefully checked by staff from the spa but that didn't stop me getting a puncture halfway through our ride, which meant I had to walk the rest of the way. Actually it was not such a hardship - it was a beautiful day.
For lunch you don't need to go far since the Gumstool Inn is attached to the hotel. Otherwise there are several places to eat in nearby Tetbury.
Later that day we took Lucas to the indoor swimming pool and, as a treat before it was time to leave, we enjoyed tea and cake in the spa's courtyard. Lucas was in tears at the thought of leaving his 'special home'.
Watching CBeebies at our house just hasn't been the same since.
Travel facts
Family suites at Calcot Manor (01666 890391, www.calcotmanor.co.uk) start at £315 a night B&B, including high tea and use of pool and Playzone for one child. The Calcot Spa maternity massage costs £63.75.
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