February 26, 2016

Two day business trip to Basingstoke

I am quite fortunate that my job sometimes requires me to travel. I enjoy this as then I can often combine business with the pleasure of seeing new places and meeting new people.



I was in for a true treat as I was to go to Basingstoke from 23-24 Feb for business and the hotel suggested was Tylney Hall. I have stayed at many different hotels in Basingstoke over the years, however this time was special as Tylney Hall is a true historic gem situated in the countryside of Rotherwick, just outside of Basingstoke. It is just as beautiful as the pictures show.












History:
The hotel has a long and interesting history going back as far as the 1700's. The mansion was used as a hospital during World War I, a business headquarter for Lord Rotherwicks famous shipping line,  Clan Line Steamers Ltd, and between 1948-1985 Tylney Hall was used as a school. It re-opened on October 1st, 1985 as an hotel and Restaurant after extensive refurbishment.
For more history click here

Restaurant:
While I was here visited the Oak Room which served the breakfast buffet. Great selection of hot and cold food, toast freshly made by the staff as well as fresh coffee/tea served at the table by the pot.


I also had the pleasure of a private group dinner in one of the private dining rooms. The meal was truly a michelin star worthy and was perfectly made out local & seasonal produce.

Activities
At Tylney Hall you won't be bored as the hotel has plenty leisure activities for you. I didn't have time to use the pool but the hotel boasts of having both indoor and outdoor pools, a gym, tennis court, golf course, croquet lawn, snooker room, and mountain bikes for hire. Besides they will even arrange clay pigeon shooting or hot air ballooning if that's what you're into.


Rooms
I had booked a Deluxe Room which is a bit expensive but for the hotel standard I would say it is worth it. The room was tastefully decorated, not too modern but still contemporary in classy way. The room has a bath and a view to gardens on one side, a small river on the other. The bed was a queen size and slept like a baby in it. The room had a Nespresso machine as well as flatscreen TV with all relevant channels.






From a business perspective the hotel is ideal for external meetings and dining. The mansion and grounds would impress anyone. The staff are quick at checkin/out as well as courteous and friendly.
If I had one regret it would be that I could only stay here for a single night. The stay here was really pleasant and it will not be the last time, as I plan to return in the future. Maybe with the family.