Here’s a challenge; stick a pin in a map of England taking in everything that makes you think ‘ultimate winter weekender’. What do you need to consider? Well for starters, The Cotswolds, obviously, Great shopping in little local boutiques – of course, glorious country walks – a given. Finally, great food, an elegant room in a traditional cosy English coaching inn and not a million miles away please.
Location, Location, Location
The Angel at Chippenham delivers all this. Chippenham is located just off the M4 at the foot of the Cotswolds. It’s less than two hours from London and just over half an hour from Bristol. Chippenham is an attractive small Regency town, mirroring in many ways its grand, near-neighbour Bath, but offering a far quieter, more affordable and sleepier elegance. John Coles Park in the centre of the town has been described as “the jewel in Chippenham’s crown” with its Victorian band stand, gentle strolls, play grounds and mature trees. Don’t get me wrong though, Chippenham has been awarded Purple Flag status in recognition of its ability to manage its quiet façade with the maintenance of a lively, broad range of evening events and activities.
Ticking Those Boxes
Chippenham is just minutes from the beautiful medieval village of Lacock famed for its filming associations with Pride & Prejudice, Emma, Moll Flaunders and The Harry Potter series. Lacock is also home to possibly the country’s most adorable handmade beauty products shop Quintessentially English. Wiltshire is walking country. Rolling landscapes provide glorious views across the changing seasons; from misty summer morning meet ups by the River Avon to foggy-breathed selfies in mid-winter woollies. Take a browse through the detailed, dedicated website www.wakinginwiltshire.com/chippenham with its huge range of walks around Chippenham, helpfully broken up by levels of access for pushchairs, dog friendly options etc.
Of course, The Angel’s staff at the Angel are as warm and friendly as their surroundings and always on hand with tip tips only a true local can know. The hotel itself dates back more than 400 years and sits right in the heart of the town. Think lunch by the warming fire after a cold morning out crunching the frost and jumping in ice puddles with the kids or afternoon tea and a rummage through your purchases after braving the boutiques of Bath. Dinner at the Angel ranges from elegant modern British cuisine indulgence to a simple snack in the bar, but whatever you decide its all guilt free anyway. This wonderful Inn has one more surprise in store, for all its ancient façade, cosy feel and relaxed atmosphere, it also offers a state of the art indoor pool and fitness centre – Ultimate Winter Weekender boxes well and truly ticked!cptswolds water park