An Evening with the Astors

First blog entry for a few weeks now due to holidays, but am now back in the saddle again. This week, its the turn of one of our greatest country houses to come under the spotlight, the former home of the Astor family, Cliveden.

I must admit, Cliveden is a favorite of mine. From the moment you drive through the imposing gates at the entrance you know you are somewhere special. As you drive along the approach road through the woodland estate you have no idea of what awaits you up ahead. Then, suddenly, as the woodland begins to thin out you see a wonderful fountain in the distance and turn a corner to reveal a vision of pure architectural perfection. The mansion, perfectly situated above the Thames is both imposing but welcoming at the same time. The vast array of expensive cars parked in front of the house serve as a reminder that this is truly the high life at its very best. The estate, once home of the famous Astors still takes your breath away no matter how many times you see it.

Nancy Astor used to be known to hold some of the best parties and dinner receptions here during her time. As you enter the house you cannot fail to notice the large portrait of her to the left of the grand fireplace. I like to think that she still watches over the house ensuring that her high standards for entertaining and service are being met.

Having stayed at Cliveden a few times before we thought we would try out their signature restaraunt, Waldos, this time around. Previously we had been unable to get a table at Waldos and usually had dinner in The Terrace Dining Room. The quality and preparation of the food in The Terrace, has always been good, but Waldos really takes it up another level. A starter of langoustines, was followed by a unique take on the standard fillet of beef, whilst desert was a wonderful combination of pear and raspberries. All was prepared and presently perfectly along with an intreaguing array of china and glassware.

On the wine side we started with a couple of glasses of champagne, Laurent Perrier Grand Siecle. This was one of the nicest Champagnes I have had. LIght and crispy with a lovely balance to it. For the food we went with one of my favourites, a bottle of Leuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay 2005. This was a lovely caramel type chardonnay that accompanied the food really well.

On a lovely summers day, there is nothing better than taking a stroll around the gardens and woodland, then retiring to the house for a glass of champagne and dinner. The place is pricey, there's no denying, but for service, quality, warmth and sheer english country house splendour you just can't beat it. Plus, how often do you get to stay somewhere that has featured so prominently in both political and elite society.

If you can, stay for a night. You'll never want to leave.