THE MONKEY ISLAND ESTATE
Winding our way down English country lanes and through small villages. We were on our way to a place we didn’t know existed until a few weeks ago. We turned the corner and the road opened into a small car park with a reception in the corner and a small bridge over the Thames.
After we had checked in we walked over the bridge and saw the beautiful building sitting on its own private island. The island has over 800 years of history and was once a place where Monks came to fish hence the name Monkey Island. After the great fire of London rubble was dumped from London on the small island, increasing its size and raising it higher from the water line paving the way to a larger building being built.
The grounds are incredibly beautiful and two recently refurbished shepherds hut sit in the grounds. They are perfect for afternoon tea and even enjoying the fire pits on a colder evening. The hotel also has a very unique floating spa which is located in a river boat moored on the banks on the island. The spa has a wide choice of treatments to indulge in.
The rooms of the hotel itself are thoughtfully laid out and refurbished to a very high standard oozing luxury and relaxation. After we had settled in our room we headed to the larger of the two shepherds huts for afternoon tea and to enjoy the peacefulness of the small boats floating by the island.
After spending some time in the hut darkness began to fall, we were treated to a full tour of the estate and shown around the newly refurbished cottages and other beautiful buildings on the island. The entire place is a tranquil escape from the business of central London. We went back to our room to get ready for dinner at the Monkey Island Brasserie. We were served a 5 course of modern British cuisine and our tummies were literally about to explode. We rolled ourselves out of the brasserie and walked around the island before heading off to our room for the evening.
The next morning we woke early to capture some photos on the island before breakfast. The peacefulness and calm sound of the water makes this place extra special.
After a yummy breakfast of fresh juices, fruit and pastries we said goodbye to this incredibly unique British hotel. We can’t wait to come back and experience it in the height of summer when all the beautiful flowers will be in full bloom.
