The majority of inns in the Epicurean Collection are conveniently located near to train stations, making for the perfect escape from the busy London life, especially for those who don’t own cars. Here are three inns which are so close to the station not even a taxi is required – all ideal for a day trip from London, and have rooms available for a longer break.
The Archangel, Frome, Somerset
Train journey: Less than two hours from London Paddington, then a 10 minute walk.
Built on steep hills with cobbled streets, Frome is an historic market town with more listed buildings than any other Somerset town. The Archangel, dating back as far as the Domesday book and being first recorded as an Inn in 1311, is a quirky mix of old and new.
Renaissance paintings of angels (hence the name) have been deployed throughout as wallpaper, and glass and steel, zinc and slate, leather and copper have been used to create a lux-rustic style. The “wow” factor comes in the shape of a restaurant housed on a free-floating glass mezzanine floor overhanging the general bar area.
The majority of the ales on tap are locally sourced, supporting local businesses and engaging clients in the local culture. Or if an ale isn’t your thing, The Archangel has an unrivalled reputation as the place to go to for delicious cocktails. It even offers a cocktail masterclass that will teach you to whip up three of your favourite tipples in a fun, interactive session behind the bar.
The Archangel, 1 King Street, Frome, BA11 1BH, Tel: 01373 456 111, www.archangelfrome.com
The Dundas Arms, Kintbury, Berkshire
Train journey: Around one hour from London, hotel is located directly opposite the station
Perched in the charming town of Kintbury, this 18th century Grade II listed inn is an idyllic place to enjoy a weekend retreat by the river. It naturally is the perfect base for a fly fishing trip, or for the simple joy of strolling along the tow path or taking a boat trip or horse-drawn canal boat ride along the river and canal, which flows past the doorstep. If you hanker for a shot of Victorian history and architecture Highclere Castle is also close by.
The Dundas Arms has eight elegant bedrooms, each lavish bedroom is decorated in a gorgeous country house style featuring luxurious bathrooms. Many of the bedrooms come with their own private terrace overlooking the canal, where you can sit back and enjoy breakfast the next morning or a sundowner in the early evening.
The seasonal menu makes the most of local produce from the surrounding rivers and countryside, you’ll be sure to enjoy a true taste of the British countryside inluding exceptional fish dishes from freshwater catches to oysters, scallops and sea bass.
The Dundas Arms, 53 Station Road, Kintbury, Berkshire, RG17 9UT, Tel: 01488 658 263 www.dundasarms.co.uk
The Mayflower, Lymington, Hampshire
Train journey: Less than two hours from London Waterloo to Lymington Town (not Lymington Pier), then a 15-minute walk.
With views over the historic Lymington harbour, and the New Forest on the doorstep, The Mayflower is the perfect Hampshire base for those craving a relaxing retreat by the sea. This gorgeous Georgian port town is renowned for its sailing and has two marinas. You can charter a yacht and take to the Solent to find your sea legs, or catch a ferry to explore the Isle of Wight. Or if you would rather take on walking, cycling or horse riding adventures you can visit the ancient woodlands and heathlands of the New Forest.
The six nautical themed bedrooms are furnished to the highest standard awash with calming coastal tones. Each room has its unique charms and special touches, from indulgent roll top baths and reinvigoration rainfall showers, to in-room espresso machines and Egyptian cotton sheets.
In the restaurant expect classic dishes and locally sourced ingredients showcasing the country’s freshest fare from their one-rosette restaurant. If the weather’s fine snap up the best seats in the house on the elegant outdoor terrace for al fresco dining or a quiet afternoon pint in the sun.
The Mayflower, King’s Saltern Road, Lymington, Hampshire, SO41 3QD, Tel: 01590 672 160 www.themayflowerlymington.co.uk
