Venue Team Blog

On the 23rd November 2007 my colleagues and I were invited by Marriott to visit their 5 star property, Hanbury Manor Golf and Country Club. Upon our arrival to the Hertfordshire based venue we were dwarfed by the sheer size of the grounds (200 acres). Although the original house was built in 1730, the venue was demolished and rebuilt in 1890. In 1990 it was refurbished and transformed into a luxury golf resort, hotel and country club, Hanbury Manor.

On checking in we were greeted by very friendly yet formal staff. The standard of the room was definitely deserved of its 5 star status. It was the smaller touches such as a personal greeting on the T.V freshly made cookies that immediately gave a good impression. My suite consisted of a large bathroom (shower and bath), a lounge area (with a T.V) and the bedroom which also had a T.V (Sky), general facilities and an extensive mini bar.

After leaving our bags in our rooms we met in the cocktail bar for some drinks with two of the Marriott sales managers. We were briefly shown around the hotel visiting meeting rooms, conference rooms and social areas. The interior can only be described as stunning and original. Hanbury Manor also offered an extensive health and beauty spa. I was most impressed by the Roman bath style swimming pool accompanied by a jacuzzi, sauna and steam room along with a variety of beauty treatment. Of course, I can’t forget the 18 hole Jack Nicklaus II PGA Championship Golf Course. It is this world class golf course that gives Hanbury Manor the extra bit of depth needed to outshine its competitors.

Dining

Hanbury Manor offer fine dining in their Zodiac restaurant which has an imaginative a la carte menu with a “modern twist on French cuisine”. It over looks the golf course and lake whilst requiring at least smart/casual dress. Hanbury Manors second eating area Oakes Grill, offers more of an informal evening. This was where we were taken for dinner and I was impressed with the quality of the meat (duck for starter and steak for mains).

After dinner some headed off for a few games of pool in the snooker room whilst the rest of us enjoyed some drinks in one of the many lounge areas. In the morning we enjoyed an excellent breakfast buffet which even offered a joint of gammon. We then made use of the leisure facilities before heading off.

One thing my colleagues and I noted, was that in a good way the hotel didn’t feel 5 star. Although having the high standards that you would expect from a hotel of its calibre, we were able to relax and feel at home which can be hard to do in some 5 star venues. I could easily stay here for a week and not feel homesick, the decor and numerous lounge areas makes accommodation at Hanbury Manor (5 star Marriott) a pleasurable experience.

Martin Middleton

Venue Consultant

Venue Team