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The Wheatsheaf - Combe Hay

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Tranquil, countryside restaurant-with-rooms

Driving up to The Wheatsheaf, you’d think that it’s tranquil, rural location could never offer the luxurious chic many weekending Urbanites have come to expect. A gorgeous old farmhouse sitting in rolling, green gardens with the very pretty, but very sleepy village of Combe Hay as its closest metropolis, it’s rustic at its best. But step inside and the stylish, contemporary interiors positively scream luxury. That’s not to say that the character has been whitewashed as thoroughly as The Wheatsheaf’s exterior - far from it. Period features mix in perfectly with the house’s up-to-date makeover, making for a country retreat a la mode.

The restaurant at The Wheatsheaf is as classy as you would expect. Stylish, clean-cut and unfussy, its menus concentrate on the best and freshest ingredients, rather than pretentious combinations. Modern takes on British classics, plus a lovingly-compiled wine list make for a very special evening meal or a treaty lunch. The restaurant’s gorgeous terrace is perfect for al-fresco dining in the summer, with The Wheatsheaf’s stunning gardens as the dream-like backdrop.

The bedrooms here are no less stylish or luxurious, with airy, neutral colour schemes and views over the gardens. Huge beds, dressed with the best Egyptian linen, down duvets and pillows and throws and cushions for extra comfort, are the definite star of the show, with the rest of the room taking a back seat, with simple, minimalist decor. The bathrooms are heavenly, with plunging rainwater showers, modern tiling, fluffy towels and White Company toiletries. You’ll never be so keen to be clean!

Where is it?

The little Somerset village of Combe Hay could easily be in the middle of nowhere, if it wasn’t just 4 miles from the centre of Bath. A cluster of cottages, a church and some stunning Georgian mansions, it’s off the beaten track to say the least. The bubbling Cam Brook flows through a pretty weir in the village, and often proves to be the fastest-moving thing in the vicinity. Still officially within the boundaries of the beautiful Cotswolds, although right on its southern edges, this is prime walking, cycling and picnicking territory. A disused railway around nearby Bellflower Hill makes for a fab, pre-lunch wander. For more walks, things to see and places to eat in this huge Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, read The Weekenders Guide to The Cotswolds.

You could easily spend a whole weekend chilling out at The Wheatsheaf and pottering about the countryside, but you would be foolish, and frankly a bit odd, if you didn’t venture the 4 miles into the city of Bath itself. For what to see and where to eat once you get there, read The Weekenders Guide to Bath.

For a slightly quieter alternative, seven miles east of Combe Hay is the picturesque medieval market town of Bradford on Avon, with its famous 13th-century bridge across the Avon, stunning Georgian architecture and weavers’ cottages. It’s a ‘mini Bath’ and a lovely place to while away a day if you fancy somewhere different. For a great day’s adventure, pack a picnic, hire a bike or a canoe from The Lock Inn (www.thelockinn.co.uk Tel: 01225 868068), on the Kennet & Avon Canal, and cycle, or paddle the ten miles along the canal to the heart of ‘proper Bath’.

Where can I eat?

The Wheatsheaf is a no-brainer of an eating option. Not only is the food fantastic, and probably the best for miles, but there’s nothing better than enjoying an amazing meal and a bottle (or two) of vino, safe in the knowledge that your bed is within staggering distance. 

If you are looking for an alternative, however, the obvious place to go is Bath itself. You can easily arrange taxis from Combe Hay right into the centre (Bath Taxis are just one firm amongst many Tel: 01225 447777). For the best places to eat in town, read The Weekenders Guide to Bath.

If city centre dining doesn’t appeal, the very pretty Wheelwright Arms in Monkton Combe (www.wheelwrightsarms.co.uk Tel: 01225 722287), 3 miles from Combe Hay, is buzzy, vibrant and as popular as you would expect for a quintessential country inn just a few miles from a city centre. Way-above-average pub grub, made to order with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients makes for a perfect, chilled-out evening meal, particularly when accompanied by the big and very explorable wine list. For a fine-dining option, drive the 7 miles to wonderful Woolley Grange (www.woolleygrangehotel.co.uk Tel: 01225 864705) on the outskirts of Bradford on Avon. Famous as the luxury destination for stressed-out parents, this super-plush, super-friendly family hotel also happens to have a fantastic fine-dining restaurant. Traditional British dishes are given a contemporary twist by head chef Rob Scott, and the puddings are to die for.

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A classy countryside retreat, with luxurious and comfy bedrooms, a fab restaurant and beautiful surroundings - all within easy reach of Bath.