Travels have taken me all over the world, and not once have I not been inspired…

Lucknam Park Hotel

It’s been many years since we stumbled onto Lucknam Park Hotel in Colerne, England. The 1720 Palladian mansion sits in the countryside of rural cottages and grand estates.

Off of the main road (always if possible) I had noticed what looked to be a narrow single lane lined with the most divine trees. We turned around for a closer look, and seeing no visible sign posted we turned into the lane. However, my husband was sure we were trespassing or would be subject to some strong words. Perhaps well deserved, as we too would not be happy with someone intruding on our privacy.

I pushed to go further, as under the canopy of the trees were bulbs pushing their way up by the thousands.

Hopeful, we go just a little further. Replenishing my late afternoon fatigue, I glimpsed the most breathtaking sweep of the historic house and grounds with cars and most encouraging, what looked like people being served within and outside.

The lane circled up to the stunning multi-columned entrance, where upon opening my door I was most graciously asked, “Are you here for afternoon tea?”

Confirming they would be parking our car around to the back (main entrance drive in) bringing it around when called.

We settled in the library for afternoon tea, starting with a lovely glass of champagne. The French doors ajar with a quiet but unassuming refinement, making us feel as if we were home to freshen up.

As if a spell were cast that beautiful afternoon it was the beginning of many stays at this special country house hotel.

Haseley Court

I had known Haseley Court by its numerous photographs, being the home of Nancy Lancaster of Colfax and Fowler fame. She had also owned other noteworthy homes; Ditchley Park, Kelmarsh Hall and a family home, Mirador, in Virginia.

Having been invited to join a private luncheon at Haseley Court with others, it would be an understatement not to say I was excited. To visit the gardens, the house, its interiors and lunch with its present owner, Mrs. Desmond Hayward, was not only beautiful but a brilliant lesson in reality.

Setting the stage was the drive down a secluded country lane, providing glimpses of lush pasture and the bucolic nature of the countryside. Still, having known of the house, I felt unprepared as we rounded a curve as there sitting to ‘the lay of the land’, stood Haseley Court.

A Queen Anne house with two bay wings flanking both sides and a terrace running the full length of the west façade. Broad steps surmounted with Lioness statues brought you straight to the front entrance. The elevation was just perfect to view the magnificent avenue of Limes, which lie across the entry.

After profuse apologies for the weather, we were welcomed into the hall and given a glass of Champagne with a suggestion we relax and enjoy the view while our luncheon was being laid out. As we entered the drawing room, the southern exposure to the garden could not have been more daunting as it sprawled itself in front of us. Brilliant.

A beautiful and remarkable agreement had been struck when Haseley Court had been sold to Lord Hereford, and again to Mr. and Mrs. Desmond Hayward, allowing Nancy Lancaster to live the rest of her life in the adjacent coach house. It was inferred had she known she would be spending these years in what she created out of a series of farm buildings, she would have planned it differently.

It was an amazing afternoon to meet and sit across from our hostess, listen to some select recall of Nancy Lancaster and to the many celebrated guests coming and going.

The house, interiors and garden now all stunningly updated to perfection, nothing could be more impressionable than knowing and experiencing good manners to make all present feel like an old family friend.