It would be fair to say that B&Bs have not had the best press in recent years. Most people will at some point have experienced the shabby décor, lack of charm and the awkwardness of impersonal hosts. Unless, you do your research the options for a stress free short break are pretty thin with a choice of pokey B&B or the characterless dormitories of Travelodge, Premier Inn, et al.
Fortunately, Wolsey Lodges offer something very different: Traditional hospitality is the corner stone of this collection of private homes offering luxury B&B short breaks.
Founded more than 30 years ago, the group is made up of a collection of around 130 privately owned properties around the country. Ranging from quaint cottages to elegant townhouses and country piles to, what can only be described as, near stately homes – everything here is set up for a perfect break. All are exquisitely furnished and finished – with many houses set in beautifully managed grounds. This is the crème de la crème of B&B-ing.
The Wolsey name is a reference to Henry VIII’s Lord Chancellor, Cardinal Wolsey, who toured Britain in the 16th century enjoying all the perks and hospitality of the nation’s finest houses. Indeed, this level of hospitality and care is at the core of what Wolsey Lodges aims to provide their guests.
The personal touches are what set Wolsey Lodges apart from the competition, as a guest you are not just staying in a hotel; you are invited into someone’s home, including dinner with your hosts.
Locations
Wolsey Lodges properties can be found all around the UK and each is individual, reflecting the personalities of the hosts. Visit the website Wolseylodges.com to see the lodges close to the area you wish to visit. Easy to navigate maps will help you to select your lodge and plan your journey whether you intend staying at one lodge or several. Once you’ve made your choice send an email or the booking form from your brochure and the owners will be in touch to confirm all the details of your stay.
Wolsey Lodges do not accept casual stays, you must place a confirmed reservation to enjoy a stay at one of these properties.
Costs
Each lodge determines its own pricing structure and details are available on the website and in the brochure. All rooms have en suite or private facilities. Prices are per person, per night, based on shared occupancy of a double or twin-bedded room and always include a generous breakfast. An extra charge is usually made for a double room used as a single. All prices are inclusive of VAT where applicable.
There are Special Offers available for those seeking a last minute break.
50connect choice – Brook House, Isle of Wight
Brook House is a real discovery; a beautifully restored Georgian property set in three acres of grounds and surrounded by National Trust land. This is the only member of the Wosley Lodges group situated on the Isle of Wight. It is a little treasure and offers a fantastic break whatever time of year you book.
Westbrook (sleeps 6) and Northbrook (4) sit, one above the other, in the courtyard to Brook House. The Old Coach House (8 + 2) stands nearby, overlooking its own cobbled courtyard.
The Isle of Wight is a stunningly beautiful place to visit, very different from the mainland but familiar at the same time. I thought the romance of the place was found in it unique scenery, the fact that of every bend of the road you are likely to discover a picture postcard scene. The island has absolutely stunning, with it landscape, it’s quirky and traditional pubs, where you can taste sumptuous and delicious food, or by high street boutiques and handcraft shops.
Visiting Brook House …
I think I am supposed to talk about what a prospective tourist can find or should expect, but my advice has to be – go with no preconceptions and you will will fall in love with the place.
The main building, which was the manor of Brook village, is situated down a private lane surrounded by a mature, beautiful gardens, secluded behind a belt of trees a short distance from the sea.
The owners of Brook House, Belinda and Geoff Walters have restored this once decaying Georgian property, which was split up in different apartment, and left to the will of the weather but also its occupiers.
Over a very lovely homemade dinner our hosts shared their story of how they acquired and restored the property that they now call home. The long journey they undertook to bring Brook House to its former glory, is filled with love, and the result is both homely and stately. It’s gratifying to see that private owners have worked so hard to restore and conserve a bit of British history, bringing out the beauty and romance of the past.
In summary
If you are looking for a romantic break away, family holiday, birthday celebrations, anniversary surprise, or just a base for visiting the beautiful Isle of Wight – then Brook House can cater for all those needs to a very high standard.
It offered truly outstanding accomodation in the main building, and our hosts made us feel completely at home – in their home. Brook House also offers the option of self catering breaks in its four cottages. where you can go and set camp with your family and friends, and the finished standard and quality is as high as Brook House.
For more information about short breaks around the UK visit Wolsey Lodges
About the Author / Gareth Hargreaves
Gareth looks after all editorial content on 50connect. He is the Swiss Army knife of content ideas and production.
