The Greyhound Inn, Letcombe Regis: A cozy couples getaway
Parents looking for a adult-only escape can do no better than this gorgeous award-winning hideaway in Oxfordshire. Here's why...
Nestled in a picture postcard picture English village The Greyhound Inn, in Letcombe Regis, Oxfordshire is the perfect hideaway for frazzled parents looking for a retreat from the daily routine all within 2 and half hours from London. The Greyhound Inn is a gorgeous, old village pub that perfectly blends in with the beautifully-preserved, half-timbered thatched, Georgian and Victorian cottages of Letcombe Regis. With luxurious and cosy bedrooms, delicious home cooked meals, welcoming staff and peaceful surroundings we suggest you put this little gem to to top of your 'reasons to get the grandparents to babysit' lists.
Owned and run by Letcombe Regis locals Martyn Reed and Catriona Galbraith who bought this 18th century village pub in 2015 and have transformed into a luxury gastro-pub with rooms that oozes rustic charm and welcomes families, dogs and muddy boots. Need more convincing of an adult-only* weekend away at The Greyhound? Then here' our 5 reasons to book this charming inn asap.
*And, if you can't bear to leave the children The Greyhound Inn welcomes babies of the human and furry kind (see our family tips for more info).
1. The Rooms
Ask any parents what thy mis most about life before children and the number one answer is always - sleep. If you mange to get a weekend of freedom then you can sleep nowhere more perfect that The Greyhound. With 8 comfortable and individually-decorated guest rooms to choose from each is en-suite and include stylish, country chic finishes and furnishings without the frump. Think muted checks, punchy florals and pops of colour interspersed with Roberts Radio, oversized cushions, upholstered headboards and squishy chairs/sofas just waiting for you to curl up and finally read that book in.
The luxurious Hypnos king-size beds invite you drift off or take a sneaky snooze with crisp white linens, a choice of feather/down or allergenic duvets and pillows and faux fur throws. And, if you can tear yourself away from the bed, the neat but elegant bathrooms have powerful rain showers over baths - and in the Oxford room there's a gorgeous roll-top bath. With welcoming tea trays, wide screen TV and wi-fi (for those who can't disconnect) you actually may never want to leave your room...
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FAMILY TIPS:
Children: Family rooms and suites sleep up to 3 children. (Suites have a separate room/area with its own TV and DVD player). Children under 12 can share a room with parents for a small additional charge and under 3 stay free. Four of the 8 bedrooms have space for a travel cot and you are welcome to borrow one at no extra charge (be sure to request at time of booking).
Dogs: There is two dog-friendly bedrooms for overnight stays (they book up quickly so plan ahead). A dog bed, water bowl, a selection box of treats and a towel for muddy paws can be provided for an extra fee also.
2. The Food
...but we suggest you do leave this comfortable bedrooms! As you really don't want to miss the food on offer at The Greyhound. With an award-winning head chef who uses the very best locally-sourced produce to create stunning seasonal menus, they will tempt you to over indulge in the best possible way. Classic British dishes are given a little modern twist thats sets it apart of the usual 'pub grub'. Sunday roasts are not to be missed, neither is the selection of desserts. Be sure to reserve a table when making a booking as the reputation of this pub means diners come from far and wide to sample some of the home-cooked meals and daily specials. This is all supported by an extensive fine wines, ciders and real ales list too.
FAMILY TIPS:
Children: There is a seperate Children’s menu with a choice of fresh homemade dishes or, they can order a smaller portion from the à la carte menu. Highchairs are also available.
Dogs: Doggy treats and water bowls are available at the bar.
3. The Area
Those looking to take long country walks, disconnect from the stresses of parenthood or to simply enjoy some peace and quiet should look no further than than the pretty village of Letcombe Regis. Near the Greyhound is the Ridgeway (described as Britain's oldest road) with rolling scenery of the North Wessex Downs, St Andrews’ Church with its 13th century tower and a quaint little small village shop and cafe - the perfect pitstop for coffee and cake. If you want to head out further a field the famous National Trusts’ White Horse Hill is six miles away and Oxford is 18 miles away - for a spot of retail therapy.
If staying in is your idea of going out then the Greyhound's rustic bar, outside beer garden or welcoming nooks near two wood-burning stoves are the perfect places to read the newspapers, enjoy a cold drink and unwind.
FAMILY TIP:
Children: The village has a small play park for smaller children and some easy walks to run off some energy. The safe enclosed garden at the back of the pub has plenty of space for little ones to play and they can always raid the games cupboard and drawing supplies for some quiet time.
Dogs: The area lends itself to some stylish Barbour-coats-and-hunter-boots-clad country side dog-walking - don't forget a lead the pavements are far and few between.
4. The Welcome
As we mentioned the owners Martyn Reed and Catriona Galbraith are locals and saw the beauty in this pub when it was run-down and in need of some TLC. Keeping the quintessential English Inn feel is evident within the interior wall, furnishings and garden. But, it's the modern touches that ensures this is one pub you will stay at more than once. Yes, it has a community and locals feel - but, this never make you feel unwelcome or out of place. The pub is separated from the rooms with a private door and stairway which ensure privacy too.
The bathroom is a comforting sight too as they are all stocked with hair and body products by Bramley. These luxurious handmade natural bath and body treats are inspired by the British countryside and are spotted in all the best luxury UK hotels. The full-sized bottles are available for guests to use while staying - so, no need to scrimp on the bath foam here. They also have a selection of Bramley products to purchase and take home. Each room is all set with bottles of mineral water, tea and coffee-making facilities, fresh milk and home-made biscuits.
5. The Breakfast
We felt we had to give a special mention to the morning after. As any B&B worth its salt has to be serving up the best ever 'most important meal of the day'. Choose from a full English (or a veggie option) smoked salmon, eggs benedict and more. There is also a vast selection of cereals, fruit, yogurts, bread, pastries, porridge and juices available too. What's more breakfast lingers onto a leisurely 10am on weekends meaning a lie-in is very much on the cards. Parents rejoice.
And, book into The Greyhound Inn swiftly.
