As well as crafting 15 stylish new bedrooms out of what were seven meeting rooms in the property’s Wessex Old School House, work has included the meticulous restoration of the unique chapel which has been returned to its former glory, providing a striking and highly unusual backdrop to events, from weddings, to celebratory dinners and business meetings.
The main reception area, 220 bedrooms and all communal areas have also received a thorough refurbishment to bring them in line with the recently re-launched De Vere brand.
The new 1705 Restaurant & Bar serves a mix of British and Italian classics using locally sourced ingredients, set against a contemporary backdrop. In summer the adjoining Courtyard will give guests the opportunity to dine alfresco, with a wood-fired pizza oven for more relaxed fayre.
The new bar, with its comfortable sofas and feature lighting, supplements the restaurant and is just the place to begin or end the evening. For a more casual dining experience, the renovated Beaumont Restaurant features British and international classics in a range of seasonal menus served throughout the day.
Interiors throughout De Vere Beaumont Estate have been transformed and are a masterclass in understated luxury, with a distinctly British aesthetic. In bedrooms, tan leather furniture, warm tweeds and a muted heritage colour palette combine with contemporary lighting and sleek bathrooms to create spaces that are restful and calming; perfect for a country retreat.
The 1705 Restaurant & Bar, communal areas and meeting rooms continue the theme, punctuated by a pop of complementary colour through soft furnishings and finished with quirky vignettes showcasing the building’s rich history.
The property’s 45 meeting spaces, including the flagship Hanover Suite, also have been refreshed, with the latest AV technology added to embrace the company’s innovative Smart Space meeting concept.
In March, four brand new luxury bedroom suites will be unveiled in The White House, the historic heart of the hotel, which also houses a selection of high-spec Board Rooms and three characterful lounges; The Larder: a new Burr & Co. coffee lounge; The Parlour: a beautiful dining room where afternoon tea takes centre stage and The Pantry: an executive lounge area.
“We’re delighted with the results of the refurbishment; we firmly believe that we have created a property that caters perfectly for our guests, whatever their reason for visiting,” says Darren McGhee, venue director at De Vere Beaumont Estate.
“The makeover has breathed new life into what is a landmark country estate. Whether it’s a large scale corporate event; a romantic getaway for two; a show-stopping wedding or an evening celebration, the hotel and our expert team will deliver an exemplary experience that is tailored to each guest’s unique requirements.”
Steeped in history, the original house was built for Lord Weymouth and then served as a public school from 1854 – 1967. The building’s rich history is evident throughout, from the stunning original features to quirky decor, which includes art installations comprised of everything from original straw boaters from when the building was a school, to replica typewriters, to oars.
The 44-acre grounds have been enhanced by Principal Hotel Company’s Head of Estates Management, Justin Turner, who has designed the outdoor space to excite guests with beautiful sculptures by local artist Emma Stothard, landscaping and natural ponds which draw on its scenic Georgian history and promote positive mental wellbeing.
A modern, fully equipped gym, a swimming pool and tennis courts are available for guests and for members.