STAPLEFORD PARK: A BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY HOTEL IN RURAL LEICESTERSHIRE

Last Updated on 17th May 2023 by Bejal

Welcome to one of England’s finest country house hotels, Stapleford Park. Nestled in 500 acres of capability brown gardens and parklands, this Grade 1 listed mansion has an idyllic location. Stapleford Park is steeped in history, oozing understated luxury and a bountiful passion to provide the best that hospitality can offer. 

Classic luxury at Stapleford Park blends seamlessly with modern day from the minute you enter the grandeur of the house. Here, lifelong memories are made from the minute you enter the grounds via the driveway right through to the nature of your visit.. This country house hotel delivers on all aspects, it’s a magical, if not extraordinary place to visit with true class and individuality at its core.

Pad your way through the graceful rooms, full of elegance and charm adopted from the Victorian and Georgian eras, Stapleford Park creates the sense of astonishment you would think synonymous to a National Trust property – it’s memorable and the question on your lips will be, “do I have to leave” ?

Full Disclosure: The stay at Stapleford Park was sponsored as part of a press stay . All opinions and views are our own and together with the photography remain a copyright of be-lavie.

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A Little History About Stapleford Park

The Domesday Book survey identifies that there has been a house on the site of Stapleford park since 1083 however in 1402 Stapleford was handed to Robert Sherard, whose family resided at the property for almost 500 years. One of the oldest rooms in the house is said to be the Old Kitchen which dates back to the 15th century, originating between 1400-1409.

The house suffered a fire, in what’s refereed to as The Old Wing, in 1633 and underwent some restorations with a subsequent extension being added in the later part of the 17th and 18th century. In the 1980’s the house took another transformation whilst in the ownership of the Gretton family, who added the drawing room (where afternoon tea is now served) as well as floors above, which all previously formed the ballroom, before the existence of the hotel. 1988, saw the house being opened as a hotel after American pizza restauranteur and hotelier, Bob Payton bought the estate. Fast forward to 1996,

British investor, Peter de Savary introduced country activities such as falconry, horse-riding and archery, and added a pool to the main house, a spa and a golf course. More recently David Fam and his corporation have invested in the property, relocating the spa and gym to the former stable block to accommodate five treatment rooms, with the golf-course no longer available.

Stapleford seems to have had a long line of A-lister wealthy owners including the ex-wife of the Sultan of Brunei, Mariam Aziz and a link to the Royals charting as far back as Norman times.

The Entrance

Stapleford Park is discretely located off Stapleford Road, 15 minutes drive from the market town of Melton Mowbray with the adjacent farmlands and countryside stippled with white fluffy clouds of sheep. 

Driving up along the long tree lined road passing St Mary Magdalene on the left, the orangery and grand hall to the right, sets the scene for what awaits. As you enter through the arched clock tower and then right into the car park, you catch the first glimpse of the pale buttery Grade 1 stone mansion house. Dressed sequentially with tall Georgian paned windows and a scaled down perfectly manicured maze to the front, you’re met with a touch of symmetrical grandeur as you walk the runway to the reception guarded by pots containing topiary.

Parking is located just outside the main grand entrance with sweeping views of lawns, a lake and an endless horizon of country landscapes.

Reception is particularly inviting with a huge fireplace (roaring fire in the cooler months) and two front of house desks to the right. Take note of the Orient Chinoiserie wallpaper which gives the space a definite ‘Manoir’ feel as well as details such as the wellington boots at the front door available for guests to borrow.

Check-in is a slick affair as one would expect in such an alluring establishment. All the finer details are taken care of conscientiously incluing dinner reservations and special requests. Your luggage is placed in your room should you require assistance.

The Morning & Gilt Rooms

Take a peek into the rooms off the reception where you are introduced to the classic French styling in the form of armoire, treasured antique pieces, precious artefacts and Divano vintage sofas. This bright and airy room has a wooden rocking horse taking pride of place which was kindly donated and now bears the signatures of famous guest who have visited Stapleford park. The room oozes baroque vibes in cream and bronze accents.

Both rooms have the original chandeliers in tact with the second having wood carved panelling and antique portraits.

The Grand Staircase

One of the most striking interior features of Stapleford Park is the grand wooden staircase set amidst red walls with traditionally hung paintings and tapestry work. The black and off white floor tiles allow the dark wooden staircase to take centre stage.

The Library Bar

The intimate and cosy bar is a relaxing space scattered with Chesterfield sofas and armchairs in clusters around large coffee tables and is the perfect place to enjoy a tipple or two. There’s even an open fireplace with yep, a roaring fire which is perfect for warming up, with views are out over the croquet lawn.

The traditional decor comprises of collectibles and books lined bookshelves. There is the occasional Tiffany lamp and a well stocked bar in the corner of the room.

Lunch offerings can be enjoyed in the Library Bar as well as bespoke gin cocktails. Be sure to check out the extensive spirits and wine list.

The Drawing Room

Probably the grandest of the communal spaces, the drawing room is decorated in contrasting hues of berries and pink and definitely give a high society vibe. Not stuffy but welcoming in fact. This room is where the famous afternoon tea is served in the cooler months and faces the side and back of the property.

Elegant vintage gold framed mirrors give the room space, the room features the fireplace and window seat with immaculately lined ensemble of plump cushions, pleated window blinds and pelmets but most strikingly the columns framing the window 

Reception Room

Through the Drawing Room head out onto the reception space which provides restful spaces in the form of chairs and Chesterfield style sofas opposite a feature fireplace. Raise your eyes above to see the arches of the details of the vestibule above as well as the electric and quirky curios but also the taxidermy displays, consolidating the hunting heritage of the house and estate, a past tradition in this part of the country. You’ll also come across some of the original wooden paneling as you walk through the downstairs onroute to the pool.

Rooms, Suites & Cottages

The hotel has a total of 48 rooms located throughout the main and older portion of the house which are accessed via the grand staircase. Each is individually designed from the luxury of the three elegant suites to the state rooms which once belonged to the Lords and Ladies of the house or even the grand rooms which have been named and designed by British names such as Mulberry, Nina Campbell and Wedgwood and featuring four posts beds. The selection does not end there, you can opt for Manor Rooms donning toile de joy and personalised designer touches and the House Rooms draped in luxurious fabrics and wallpapers. There are even pet-friendly rooms for your pooch companions.

If you’re looking for a completely intimate stay, there ’s even the option of the Countryside Pavilion Cottage which has three en-suite bedrooms and can accommodate six people. The cottage is self-contained with a kitchen and veranda area.

The Baker Suite

The Baker Suite is located in the main house and is most definitely the most romantic dreamy room, the house has to offer. Walk into a beautiful lounge area with an open fireplace, golden three piece suite with sofa and armchairs, as well as a table and chairs in the corner and a window with views out over the lawns where you can view one of the most spectacular sunsets.

Walk through the open entrance through to a bedroom, decorated in complementing tones of gold and cream and dark wood, windows seats and another large window with roman blinds and more stunning views.

The bed is most definitely fit for a princess with draping and pelmet accessories as well as a perfect dolls house dressing table to the side. The double bed is dressed with crisp white linens a pelmet canopy  and side lamps at either side of the bed on dark wood tables.

The bedroom leads on through to a spacious bathroom, which is decorated in a traditional dark wood style with a wc, bath and shower as well as his and hers vanity area and mirrors. 

Fluffy white bathrobes and flip flops are provided as are the toiletries by Noble Isle, which smell divine. They’re available in full size and can be purchased at the hotel reception. 

All three rooms of the classic suite are flooded by the natural light, the buttermilk, gold and neutral tones give this room a very elegant feel

Those special memorable touches at Stapleford Park include the discrete champagne on ice and hand-written personal messages in the room 

In room amenities:

• Wifi (throughout the hotel)
• Tea coffee, making facilities
• Nespresso machine
• Fridge
• Slippers and fluffy bathrobes
• Noble Isle full-size toiletries
• Flat screen LED TV’s in lounge and bedroom
• Safe, iron and ironing board.

Dining at Stapleford Park

There are a few options when it comes to wining and dining at Stapleford Park. There is a delicious array of finely crafted foods from breakfast, lunch and bar snack, exquisite afternoon tea options as well as a formal dinner in the two AA rosette awarded restaurant, The Grinlins Gibbons.

The Grinling Gibbons

Stapleford Park’s two AA Rosette restaurant is exceptional from it’s surroundings to it’s service and of course its cuisine.

The restaurant bears the name of Grinling Gibbons, a Dutch sculptor and wood carver, who crafted the restaurants mantelpiece. It was in fact an honour to be seated directly in front of the delicately ethereal artwork itself. The remainder of the room is in keeping with the fireplace with it’s off-white and gold baroque-like features and carvings, upholstered light mint chairs interspersed with dark wood backed strawberry seat cushions and crisp table clothes dressing the tables. Note the large windows with a lighter shade of red window seats and plum cushions.

The room may emulate formal yet the ambiance couldn’t be more different, it’s welcoming, unpretentious and not stuffy in the slightest.

The restaurant has a wonderful choice of a la carte dishes which accommodate dietary requirements to include vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. Other options can be arranged by getting in touch prior to your visit.

Chef Anthony Fitt and his team have created a wonderful menu of seasonal and locally sourced produce, fusing great flavours with modern twist and presented delightfully. Discerning palettes taken care of here!

There is a great range of around six options to choose from the a la carte menu for each course.

Homemade Bread & Butter to Accompany the Meal

Starter

Loin of mutton, turnip, celery and hazelnut and Jerusalem artichoke, watercress puree, nutmeg and lemon (VG). 

Mains

Textures of cauliflower, green chilli, corner, coconut and lime (VG) and venison loin, braised shoulder, Pera, Jerusalem artichoke and whipped Beauvale Blue.

Deserts

Coconut and vanilla panna cotta with clementine and passionfruit (not your traditional looking panda cotta) and Honey and pear tart, honeycomb with pear sorbet

The food was cooked to absolute perfection with portion sizes being spot on. The vegetarian and vegan courses were full of flavour and complemented by the sauces and accompaniments.

Wine

The library bar stocks a fantastically extensive wine list with recommendations to suit the compliment of dishes with insightful recommendations made by the bar staff team. 

We opted for a full-bodied red with great depth, CJ Pask Gimblett Road Cabernet Merlot Malbec, from Hawkes Bay, New Zealand.

Lunch & Lounge Bar Snacks

The Library Bar is the perfect setting to enjoy drinks as well as lunch or bar snacks available form midday to evening. Offerings include delicious sandwiches, quinoa superfood salads, cheeseburgers, truffle macaroni cheese to mention but a few. 

The vegan club sandwich containing hummus, avocado, portabello mushrooms, sun blushed tomatoes and crispy tofu in a warm ciabatta was delicious and came with homemade chips. The non-vegans can opt for the Stapleford Club Sandwich with bacon, smoked chicken, lettuce, tomato and a fried free range egg also served with homemade chunky chips.

Afternoon Tea

Stapleford Park is well known in the surroundings for its wonderful afternoon tea, served in the drawing room beneath the glistening chandeliers, served daily from 13:30-16:00. Guests can choose from the traditional afternoon tea or a gluten free, vegetarian and vegan version. Additionally there’s a children’s afternoon tea. 

Sandwiches, scones, and pastries meticulously places on traditional tea stands and priced competitively in such grand surroundings is a must for anyone wanting the full Stapleford experience.

Of course the bubbles can be added by the glass to include Prosecco, Cuvee Cardet Brut or a choice of Bellinis.

Breakfast

Room rates include breakfast at Stapleford Park. continental offerings include pastries, muffins, toast, cereals. Juices, fruits and nuts are available in the reception room. Cooked breakfast items are prepared to order and include a full English as well as vegetarian and Vegan alternative, porridge, pancakes, grilled kipper, omelettes, toasted sourdough with various toppings of avocado, tomatoes, poached eggs to mention but a few.

Fresh toast, tea and coffee is brought to the table once seated.

Private Dining

At Stapleford Park, if you’re planning on a small intimate, private celebration or even a corporate dinner, there are rooms that can be hired for a lovely sit down experience or buffet in the grandeur of the property. Think of sitting at the centre of the table, ceilings adorned with chandeliers, panelled walls and exceptional private service with a menu crafted to your personal needs. The Harborough Room, The Old Kitchen and The Billiard Room are perfect for private dining occasions.

Children’s Dining

At Stapleford Park, you can be rest assured that the little people in your life are also catered for with specific children’s menus for lunch, bar snack, dinner as well as afternoon tea.

Gardens at Stapleford Park

The gardens at the property are endless and pristinely manicured. There are lawns to the side of the house where you’ll find a giant sized chess set as well as other lawn games such as croquet and boules. The back of the house you will find a well placed small patio area where on a summers day you can enjoy a drink or afternoon tea with those endless lawn and green filled horizon. 

Walk through to the walled garden which includes a putting green, orchard, chef’s garden as well as a herb garden. Just before the Pavilion there is also a pretty romantic rose garden opposite one of the tennis courts.

Walking through the gardens, note the smell of the planet and shrubbery even in the winter months, with the warmer months the garden comes alive with a new perspective. Wonder around and marvel at the work of the groundsmen and gardeners as well as the intricate design of the area.

Wellness Facilities at Stapleford Park

At the end of the walled garden walk a little further down towards the main road and you’ll come to the old Stable yard which now houses The stable yard Spa with five treatment rooms and the fully equipped gym. 

The stable block dates back to 1899 and has a touch of Baroque revival about it and is said to have been modelled on such blocks at Buckingham Palace.

The spa treatment menu is extensive and can be enjoyed in groups, as a couple or individually with discreet relaxation areas post treatments. Think bespoke spa prescriptions such as aromatherapy facials,, mud wraps, body wraps and infusions as well as pedicures and manicures to mention a few.

The fully equipped fitness gym is also located along one side of the stable block and has all the necessary equipment for those who like to workout.

The pool is located in the main house and is open to all guests staying at the hotel. The heated pool also has a number of loungers to relax in as well as a sauna, steam room and a jacuzzi.

The Church of St Mary Magdalene

Just a couple of minutes stroll toward the entrance of the property is the charming Church of Mary St. Magdalene, which was built in 1783 for the Earl of Harborough. They currently undertake blessings here. 

Experiences at Stapleford Park

The 500 acres of stunning countryside encapsulating the estate makes for a place to experience many outdoor pursuits:

• Bike Hire – take advantage of the complimentary bike are self service allowing you to take a gentle cycle through the parklands.
• Walks – feel free to borrow a pair of wellies and take a stroll in the surrounding countryside.
• Picnics – Arrange to have a picnic on the lawns – available May-august, weather permitting.
• Lawn games – perfect for all the family, partake in a game of chess, croquet or boules.

• Shooting – During the 18th century, hunting was popular around Stapleford Park and currently you can take part in pigeon clay shooting with an experienced team of staff. No prior experience is necessary.
• Archery – learn how to use the bow and arrow with your personal archery tutor.
• Falconery – The onsite Stapleford School of Archery, run by Pete Sibson introduces you to the Lanner Falcon, a European eagle.

Sustainability at Stapleford Park

With it’s countryside location and relaxing getaway ethics, it’s easy to imagine the hotel checks off a fair amount of points on the sustainability policy list. Here are a few to note:

• Full size toiletries in room to avoid wastage. 
• Nobel isle toiletries are vegan and cruelty free, in recyclable packaging, created using natural ingredients made in Chester, England and support British Charities as well as donating 10% of hand sanitiser sales to the NHS.

• Electric car charging points in front of the property.
• Cooked to order breakfast to reduce food waste.
• Locally sourced fresh produce to serve in restaurant as well as confirmation of dining reservations at check-in.
• Option to decline linen and towel change if staying more than a night.
• Hire of bicycles.
• Activities that can be done on-site such as outdoor pursuits and games.

Stapleford Park: Reasons to Visit 

• Romantic breaks – spend some quality time relaxing with your loved one in the stunning surroundings. Stay the night, indulge in afternoon tea, have a spa treatment, enjoy dinner and walk in the memorable grounds.
• Ladies and gentlemen weekend away – why not spend a few days with the ladies or gentlemen and hire out the Pavilion self contained cottage. Enjoy afternoon teas, pampering treatments and sip on cocktails on the terrace or the cosy fire at The Library Bar.
• Family reunion – Bring the family, children are welcome of course, stay in the shared cottage or in the main house and enjoy the outdoor pursuits, games and find the time discovering the hotel and its amenities as well as the surrounding areas.
• Weddings – It won’t come as a surprise that Stapleford park is perfection for weddings. The dreamy grounds, the orangery, romantic photography – it’s total English country wedding vibes through and through. Choose the setting and package that suits you, your budget and your party, make it a day to remember for yourself and your guests. The house can also be hired out for exclusive use. The Orangery and Grand Hall are perfect for accommodating 200 guests and for smaller affairs there are a number of smaller rooms to chose from. More information about weddings at Stapleford Park.

Other Noteworthy Things to Know

Dogs are welcome so please do consult with the team prior to your stay so your pooch companion is also accommodated with whatever they need for a perfect stay. Just make sure they are well behaved and on their leads in public areas.

Please do let the team know if your visit forms the basis of a special celebration, their discretion is valuable and the special extras are truly memorable.

Access for guests with disabilities – There are ramps throughout the hotel, and a lift to access to the first and second floors. The Eleanor room has a walk-in shower, while the Wedgewood room has wider doors and handrails in the bathroom. 

Places to Visit Near Stapleford Park

Melton Mowbray

Visit the market town of Melton Mowbray, famed for it’s pork pies, stilton cheese and livestock market twice a week. Wonder the markets, quaint shops and tearooms. To learn about the history of the town, head to the Carnegie Museum, where admission is free.

Related Article: Things to do in Melton Mowbray

Twinlakes Theme Park

Head to Twinlakes Theme park with indoor and outdoor activities and rides. Particlularly a must if you have children.

Further information, through their website, Twinlakes Park Website.

Spend The Day In Leicester

The city of Leicester is only a 50 minute drive away and makes for a great day out with attractions such as The Space Centre and King Richard III visitor centre. There are also some great sporting draws such as Rugby at the Leicester Tigers, Football at King Power Stadium. Cricket at Grace Road and basketball at The Morningside Arena.

Related Article: The Ultimate Local’s Guide to Leicester

Great Central Railway, Loughborough

If you love railways, a visit to the Great Central Railway is a must. You can step abroad a classic steam engine as well as other trains and enjoy a journey through the Leicestershire countryside. It transports you through a bygone era and is kept alive by volunteers. You can even book in an afternoon on the train which takes you through a number of stations right up to Swithland reservoir. A wonderful way to see the Leicestershire countryside and feel apart of history and one of very few such train lines in the country.

Related Article: Afternoon Tea on The Great Central Railway

How to get to Stapleford Park

Stapleford Park is a 15 minutes drive from the centre of Melton Mowbray. Find the best train routes and prices through Trainline. The nearest big train station is Grantham, with routes from London Kings Cross taking just over an hour. Should you require it, the hotel can arrange a taxi transfer.

Additionally you can hire a car through Europcar. London to Stapleford Park is Around a two hour journey through the Google Maps route planner.

The closest Airports are East Midlands, Birmingham and Luton. Travelling from abroad, no problem, find the best flights on Skyscanner.

The hotel also has a Helipad which requires prior warning to arrange for your arrival.

The Best Time to Visit Stapleford Park

There really is no wrong time to visit. The hotel is open all year round. The cooler months brings a different perspective to the gardens, the house is cosy with open fires and a little quieter with special rates. The summer season is a little busier with weddings and guests as well as school holiday fun. More outdoor time with the longer days allows time to admire the gardens and take day trips. The changing of the seasons such as spring and autumn are particularly beautiful with the outdoor foliage turning a multitude of colours against the never-ending view of the surrounding parklands.

Stapleford Park Stay Round-up

Truly one of the grandest country estates in England, Stapleford Park is special. It’s individuality, style, hospitality and dining offerings is truly majestic. Although there are 48 rooms, the hotel retains a small boutique hotel feel and the staff and service is uniquely attentive and personalised at all times. 

The foresight of the team is such that you literally don’t have to worry about a thing during your stay. Stapleford Park is a place where time stands still. Relaxation and wellbeing is a priority and an institution where lifelong memories are made. 

Although your first impressions of Stapleford Park may be that of a opulent Manor House full of aires and graces, you will realise very quickly that nothing here is pretentious – its’ unstuffy, welcoming, accommodating putting your requirements centre stage. The Sanctuary of Stapleford Park, is one you will find hard to leave.

The Details

• Location: Stapleford Park Hotel. Stapleford Road, Stapleford, Melton Mowbray. Leicestershire. LE14 2EF. Tel. 01572 787000
• Website & Bookings: Stapleford Park
• Price Range: Double Rims from £190 midweek and from £250 at weekends. Breakfast is included. 

À bientôt

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