The Barnsdale

This former hunting lodge has been transformed into a refined yet relaxed destination, discovers Alexandra Henton

- Alexandra Henton

FOR MANY of those who have grown up in or near Rutland, Barnsdale Lodge will long have been a fixture. In my memory it played host to a hunt bash where I was taken with someone particularly unsuitable, but thankfully those murky days (well, they were also quite fun) are long past.

The lodge too has recently thrown off its past. Hector Ross, chief executive of The Signet Collection, added this Rutland venue to his growing hotel portfolio earlier in 2023, joining The Mitre near Hampton Court and The Retreat near Newbury. Rebranded as The Barnsdale, the hotel has completed the first stage of refurbishment: 45 individually designed bedrooms, each named after a fish or bird, with interiors (orchestrated by Ross’ wife Samantha) that boast an easy elegance and have the sort of flooring, fabric and furnishings that you’ll want to take note of. At the time of publication the second phase will be under way: a brand-new spa with swimming pool, treatment rooms and salons followed by a new barn, to be built using reclaimed wood with solar panels on the roof, for weddings and conference guests. The Barnsdale is set to be a hub, a destination and a meeting point. Think Cotswold chic finally making its way to Rutland. It’s an exciting prospect.