We checked into Babington House for a three night weekend stay at the end of February. Our booking was super last minute owing to Covid19 travel restrictions halting our plans – swapping Venice for for a staycation at gorgeous, grand Babington is a Georgian rural retreat in the Somerset countryside – 25 minutes or so from Bath.
Because our booking was so last minute and it was a weekend – we had to move room each night which was the only negative – I say negative – it wasn’t really as housekeeping super efficiently arranged everything for us – and we got to see lots of the hotel! and We stayed at first in the Stables and then the Walled Garden and although very different we loved both rooms as much. Rustic luxe with a lived in feel, twinned with cut glass crystal, fresh flowers and coffee table books are the signature style.
The Lowdown
We enjoyed lunch in the bar on arrival whilst waiting for our room to be ready – which was delicious and hearty – try the anti pasti board -and then in the evening dined in the elegant restaurant on the Saturday evening which again was fabulous – local and seasonal.
The bar scene in the evening was busy and lively and we drank many drinks at the bar chatting to the talented bar men – make sure you try the Casa Picantè – lethal but tasty. The bar menu in the evening offers great Pizza – twinned with the refreshing Lady A Rosé – the perfect combination.
Breakfast is also taken in the Orangery which is a lovely, slow start to the day. You can choose from individual dishes or if you are hungry (or greedy like me!) you can select the full experience – from homemade granola, cinnamon rolls, fruit salads and much more – it’s also a really great price and we were so full we didn’t then eat until Afternoon tea!
Talking of which Afternoon Tea and cake is served each day in the Deli bar at 4pm which is a lovely addition to your day. The cake selection is just wonderful – seasonal slices and fresh scones – and indulgent.
I whiled away some hours in the Cowshed spa enjoying a pedicure and reflexology – which I totally recommend – what a relaxing space – sipping ginger tea and letting the worries of the world pass you buy.
We borrowed bikes and wellies and explored the pretty, peaceful grounds and took tea in the library, idly thumbing books and magazines until it was time to go and get changed for dinner.
The pool area is fabulous – we swam in both the indoor and outdoor (even when it was snowing! It was so refreshing) and quiet. Would love to experience it again on a warm sunny day.
The helpful valet service on check in and check out is a welcome addition.
A totally wonderful experience that we will repeat as soon as we can!
Please note – there is a no photograph policy – I snook a few around and about and obviously you can take as many as you like in your room – but in the social spaces, bar, dining, drinking etc – it’s totally frowned upon.
Babington House, Charity Lane, Frome BA11 3RW
