What could be more pleasant than spending an hour on one of the prettiest stretches of The Thames, whilst eating Afternoon Tea and sipping cold champagne?
The Suzy Ann, one of Cliveden’s stunningly restored flotilla’s, offers groups of up to ten people the opportunity to indulge in an hour’s luxury private cruise, slowly meandering along this pretty stretch of water whilst enjoying the delights from the pastry chef that included traditional scones, clotted cream, jam and fresh strawberries, along with a lemon tart, chocolate cake, a white chocolate eclair, and a light sponge cake topped with frosted berries. Alongside the sweet treats were the traditional Afternoon Tea sandwiches, including smoked salmon, egg and cress and coronation chicken, and to accompany these we had a choice of tea or champagne (not a difficult decision for me!).
The day we went four friends and I were celebrating a friend’s 50th birthday, and the staff discreetly took away the bunting and balloon we had taken as a surprise, so that by the time we had been transported in the luxury mini bus down to the river, The Suzy Ann had already been decorated, and the entire experience brought tears to my friend’s eyes, and in return ours! This service is one of the many reasons that Cliveden, and its sister hotel Chewton Glen, are five star properties, as nothing is ever too much trouble, and the staff are polite, efficient and incredibly capable.
Cliveden has a few boats within its flotilla, that can be hired for longer than an hour, and can include picnics as well as Afternoon Tea, and if the weather is on your side, will provide you and your friends or family, with a magical experience that you will never forget. The Captain of the Suzy Ann was full of interesting information about the history of Cliveden and the surrounding areas, and recounted several stories of people’s experiences on the Suzy Ann, including several marriage proposals.
Cliveden House & Spa is set in the heart of the Berkshire countryside, surrounded by 376 acres of magnificent National Trust managed Grade I listed formal gardens and parkland. Cliveden has wonderful panoramic views over the River Thames and is just 20 minutes drive from Heathrow and 40 minutes from central London and Oxford, making this a fabulous day out, as the house is steeped in history and the gardens are stunning.You could even treat yourself to a stay at the hotel so you don’t have to worry about how much champagne you drink during your luxury private cruise!
For further information the Suzy Ann and Cliveden House & Spa, please visit: www.clivedenhouse.co.uk
Cliveden House & Spa, Taplow, Berkshire, SL6 0JF Telephone: 01628 607107