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Donnington Grove Hotel & Golf Club

★★★·87.0/ 10Excellent
·Country house
Review
Official

The Donnington Grove Estate is set in a delightful and secluded position on the outskirts of Newbury and is overlooked by the historic Donnington Castle. The present house, where the hotel is located, was built by James Pettit Andrews between 1763 and 1772 to designs by John Chute. This style is now known as Strawberry Hill Gothic, after the house created for Horace Walpole in Twickenham. The land purchased by Andrews at the time was not extensive and during his ownership, Donnington Grove could more properly be described as a house with grounds rather than a country estate. The estate, which comprises of 550 acres, was a mixture of parkland, farmland and woodland, with the River Lambourn running through it. These variations in the landscape provided an ideal setting for a championship golf course. Dave Thomas, one of Britain’s foremost golf architects was assigned the task of creating a golf course that was in keeping with the listed landscape gardens and lake to the south of the house. The construction of the course started in November 1991 and on the 12 June 1993 the Donnington Grove Country Club opened. If golf does not suit everyone there are also beautiful walks, fishing and gardens to enjoy.

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Nearby & transit

DiningSights
1
Goat On The Roof
Modern Cuisine · Bib
££
A former bank is now this bright and airy restaurant where plenty of natural light floods in through the large windows. There's an understated elegance to the décor and the counter is the place to sit if you want to discuss the concise yet quality wine list with the enthusiastic team. The appealingly varied cooking offers sharing plates that draw inspiration from multiple sources but are rooted in the British larder. The fish 'gilda' snack is a prime example, offering plenty of flavour in the harmonious combination of trout, quail egg and smoked haddock.
2.0km
2
The Woodspeen
Modern Cuisine
£££
It might be set within a restored 19th-century farmhouse, but The Woodspeen has a contemporary feel courtesy of its fine terrace and an airy, Scandic-style extension with a vaulted arch ceiling. Menus centre on the seasons and bring together ingredients from the kitchen garden and the surrounding area, in dishes that utilise big, punchy flavours – such as anchovy emulsion and wild garlic salsa with roast lamb rump. Arrive early for a drink in the intimate bar; the ‘25 Yards’ gin is crafted using botanicals from their garden.
1.0km
3
The Vineyard
Modern Cuisine
£££
This restaurant is temporarily closed for refurbishment.Situated within a glamorous hotel of the same name, this smart and stylish restaurant has wine embedded in its bones. Whilst not actually situated on a vineyard, there is one nearby – which provides some local sparkling wines – and the overall list offers a huge selection, including over 70 options by the glass. These serve as the perfect accompaniment to elegantly presented dishes that are elevated by the skilful preparation of the high-quality ingredients. The main restaurant serves an à la carte, while The Tasting Room offers a seasona
1.9km
4
Malverleys
Modern British
£££
Tucked away in what is surely one of England’s prettiest hamlets, dining here is like stumbling upon a hidden slice of paradise. Surrounded by beautifully kept grounds but also their own farm, the restaurant sits inside a gorgeous farmhouse alongside a bakery and shop. Take your seat in the dining room in full view of the open kitchen and feast on the seasonal dishes that make great use of the wood-fired oven. Grilled spatchcock quail with cherries from the estate is a prime example, succulent and full of gamey flavour.
8.8km
5
Wellington Arms
British Contemporary
££
At this smart cream pub they have their own herb and vegetable beds, keep sheep, pigs, chickens and bees, and source the rest of their meats from within 20 miles. Menus feature 6 dishes per course – supplemented by a selection of specials – and cooking is generous and satisfying. Smart, rustic bedrooms come with slate floors, sheepskin rugs and big, comfy beds.
15.0km
6
Bell
Modern Cuisine
££
The Bell is not just a pub but a true village hub. A charming 300-year-old building, it comprises a bar, a restaurant, bedrooms and even a café to make itself useful no matter when you're visiting. The carefully executed cooking ensures the flavours of the high-quality ingredients shine through, be that in lighter dishes such as scallop ceviche with fennel or pub classics like beer-battered haddock and chips. The surrounding 19,000-acre Ramsbury Estate provides not just a picturesque setting but also much of the seasonal produce that powers the menu.
18.6km
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Click a row to locate it · distances are approximate. Data from Overture / Michelin / Wikidata.

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