In the heart of the Warwickshire countryside, just a short drive from Stratford-upon-Avon, Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa offers a unique blend of tradition, luxury and relaxation. A house steeped in history, where William Shakespeare is said to have written one of his best-loved plays, Billesley Manor welcomes today’s guests with contemporary comforts, elegant rooms, and extensive grounds and leisure facilities.
Disclosure: Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa provided a complimentary visit for myself and my husband in return for coverage on this site.
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Modern Comforts In A Historic House
An Elizabethan house with roots stretching back to the time of the Norman Conquest, Billesley Manor is perfect for anyone who likes a taste of historic grandeur. But it is much more than just a traditional country house; it is also a place where you can enjoy spa facilities, eat and drink in luxurious surroundings, and explore the grounds and gardens.
The hotel has been recently refurbished, adding modern amenities to the original manor house.
History Of Billesley Manor
Billesley Manor is a Grade II* listed building, full of stories from the past. The site itself is mentioned in the Domesday Book, but the house that stands today was built around 1600, and retains many of its original features. A new wing was added in 1905.
A Deserted Medieval Village
The village of Billesley was once a thriving settlement, but virtually the whole population succumbed to the Black Death in the Middle Ages. A few hints of the deserted village can be seen in the mounds and hollows that remain in the grounds of the manor. Across the road remnants of a moat and a bank are also visible.
Close by is the small All Saints Church. The original church fell into disrepair after the population declined, but was later resurrected and rebuilt as the manor church. It is no longer in use but it is maintained by the Churches Conservation Trust and is open to visitors.
The Shakespeare Connection
The local legend is that All Saints Church was the site of William Shakespeare’s marriage to Anne Hathaway in 1582. No records exist to prove or disprove the claim, but Shakespeare’s connection with the manor itself seems more certain. It is said that he wrote his play As You Like It here, working in what is now appropriately named the As You Like It Room.
Of course, Billesley is only 7 km from Stratford-upon-Avon (and 5 km from Anne Hathaway’s Cottage), so there are plenty of opportunities to discover local sites associated with Shakespeare.
Staying At Billesley Manor & Spa
The hotel consists of the original manor house, the 20th century extension and two historic barns. It is set in 11 acres of parkland, including two tennis courts and an ornate topiary garden. The latter was created around 1913, and follows a chessboard theme with hedges shaped into characters from Alice in Wonderland.
Billesley Manor has 71 bedrooms, a restaurant and bar, and a fully equipped spa.
A Choice Of Rooms
The bedrooms are spread between the historic house, the extension, and the luxuriously refurbished barns. Guests can choose from traditional rooms with Tudor features to contemporary spaces with smart modern décor.
My room was in the old manor house. It was spacious and comfortable, and tastefully decorated with Shakespearean-themed artwork. There were chairs, a desk, and a divan to relax on, and a coffee machine alongside bottled water and tea-making facilities. I was pleasantly surprised by the bathroom, which was very large with a free-standing bath and a divan as well as a walk-in shower – and a nice range of Molton Brown toiletries.
Eating And Drinking At Billesley Manor
We had an excellent meal in the restaurant, an atmospheric space with traditional wood panelling and leaded windows. The menu was extensive, with plenty of vegetarian options, and the service was friendly and attentive. I had a main of mushroom and chestnut pithivier, and my husband had Chalk Stream trout: both dishes were delicious and attractively presented. Particular mention must go to my starter of caramelised fig and goat’s cheese, with a lovely contrast between the salty cheese and the crystallised honey.
We were back in the restaurant for the buffet style breakfast, which included hot food, cereals and pastries, as well as a good selection of bread, cheeses and fresh fruit. The hotel also offers lunch and afternoon tea, and drinks and snacks are available in the Great Hall Bar.
Spa And Leisure Facilities
Guests have complimentary access to the leisure suite, with its fully equipped gym and indoor pool, steam room and sauna. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the tennis courts, and yoga classes take place at certain times during the week.
The luxurious Billesley Spa offers a whole range of treatments, from massages to facials to complete spa days.
Making The Most Of Your Stay
There is plenty to do without even leaving the hotel: stroll around the grounds, take a spa treatment and enjoy afternoon tea. But there is also much to explore in the surrounding area, particularly in Stratford-upon-Avon, with its theatres, riverside walks and Shakespearean attractions.
There are a number of National Trust properties nearby, including Charlecote Park, a Victorian house and gardens 18 km away. You could also visit the historic city of Coventry (36 km), or Kenilworth, with its beautiful ruined castle (27 km).
Plan Your Stay At Billesley Manor
- Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa is part of the Marriott Tribute Portfolio.
- There is a wide choice of room types, with prices starting at £139 per night.
- The hotel is best reached by car, with Stratford-upon-Avon around 10 minutes away. There is a large car park.
- Note that rooms in the historic manor may be on upper floors and can only be reached via the stairs. However some ground floor rooms are available: enquire when booking.
- Staying guests enjoy free use of leisure facilities, including the indoor pool, steam room and tennis courts.
- The hotel is well set up for weddings and events as well as individual stays.
