If you are looking for a luxurious and relaxing escape in the heart of the Cotswolds, Dormy House is the ultimate destination. From the moment we arrived, the experience was seamless and welcoming, with Vicky greeting us at check-in and even offering a lift to The Fish for our first night’s dinner, a thoughtful touch that set the tone for our stay.
Staying at Dormey House
Our room at Dormy House was beautifully decorated, striking a balance between cottage charm and cosy comfort. The balcony provided a lovely spot to enjoy the crisp Cotswolds air, while the bathroom was a dream with a free-standing bath perfect for long soaks, a separate shower, and a generous array of Temple Spa products that made every moment feel indulgent.
Every room comes with thoughtful touches, including air conditioning, free WiFi, a flatscreen TV, a coffee machine, luxury bathrobes and slippers, a personal safe, and even a pair of Muck Boot wellies to borrow if you fancy exploring the countryside. Full access to the House Spa was also included, making it easy to slip into total relaxation. The only downside? The bed felt a little small for two, perhaps a queen or small double, making it a tight fit for Adam, who is 6’2, and me, but otherwise, the room was flawless.
After settling in, we hopped into the shuttle service to The Fish, run by the same team behind Dormy House, for our first dinner. The Fish is a cosy, contemporary spot where the flavours are bold, inventive, and thoroughly satisfying. Highlights included a cheese soufflé that was both indulgently cheesy and surprisingly filling, and cod cheeks in a spicy, sweet chilli sauce that were cooked to perfection, succulent and packed with flavour.
Food and beverage at Dormy House
Back at Dormy House, dining at The Back Garden restaurant was another highlight of the trip. The restaurant exudes understated elegance with attentive staff who make you feel at home. We were guided through the wine selection by Rebeca, a Grand Canary-trained sommelier with experience at Chewton Glen, and Max, a local from Broadway. The wine pairing was impeccable, Bacchus for Sussex from Thorrington Mill, perfectly complemented our meal.
The food itself was nothing short of extraordinary. We started with an onion tart that was delicate, sweet, and smoky, followed by a venison terrine with a butter-like texture, served with crunchy bread, a perfect example of homely English fare elevated to fine dining standards. The main courses were indulgent yet refined, braised beef skirt with red wine sauce and chunky celeriac mash melted in the mouth, while the duck with cider and crab apple sauce, accompanied by salsify and charred onion, was cooked perfectly rare, its sweetness cutting through the rich, fatty meat. Roast potatoes deserved their own accolade; they were soft inside and perfectly crisp outside.
Desserts were spectacular, a fig soufflé with pistachio goo that was almost addictive, and a sticky toffee Braeburn apple pudding with clotted cream ice cream that made Adam very happy indeed. The food here is beautiful British cooking at its finest, hearty, comforting, and inspiring you to fall back in love with classic flavours.
After dinner, we enjoyed cocktails at the bar at Dormy House. Our bartender served a brilliant Aviation, which I would confidently rate a solid nine out of ten. It was expertly balanced, smooth, and just the right level of floral and citrus notes, a perfect way to round off the evening.
Exploring from Dormy House
While the hotel itself is a haven, the surrounding area is worth exploring. We wandered through the charming town of Broadway, visited the local Daylesford Farm Shop, and even made a detour to Bicester Village on our way up to Dormy House. The options for outings are endless, whether you are seeking boutique shopping, scenic walks, or exploring historic Cotswolds villages. For those who prefer a quieter day in, Dormy House’s intimate spa offers everything from soothing massages to rejuvenating treatments, providing the perfect counterbalance to an active day out.
Mornings at Dormy House were just as delightful as the evenings. Breakfast, served by the warm and chatty Carolyn and Hannah, was a relaxed, friendly affair with everything you could wish for to start the day. Freshly brewed coffee, a range of hot and cold options, and attentive service made each morning feel like a treat.
Dormy House strikes a perfect balance between indulgence and homely charm, making it an ideal destination for a weekend escape. Whether you are a couple seeking a romantic getaway or friends planning a cosy retreat, it is a base from which to explore the Cotswolds or even a convenient stop-off before heading further north to continue your UK adventures. With its luxurious rooms, outstanding food, welcoming staff, and beautiful surroundings, Dormy House delivers a staycation that feels both indulgent and effortlessly relaxing.
If you are planning a short break filled with comfort, incredible British cuisine, and a touch of pampering, Dormy House is the place to go. Every detail, from the thoughtfully curated rooms to the exquisite food and wine, is designed to make you feel at home while treating you to something special.
Dormy House
Willersey Hill
Broadway
WR12 7LF,
United Kingdom
