A gorgeous little bolt hole right in the heart of historic Winchester, Hotel du Vin is the perfect cosy sanctuary after a busy day’s festive shopping.
Build in 1715, but lovingly reinvented, this bijou hotel features just 24 individually styled rooms and suites, a super cool bar, large sunny and sheltered terrace, and walled garden, and of course, its highly acclaimed bistro.
For our stay we were treated to the pretty in pastel blue and spacious Renault Suite. Facing the front of the hotel on the 2nd floor, you can just peak the world-famous Cathedral through large windows. There’s a seating area, fireplace, and modern bathroom. It’s all very calming and comfortable. There are a host of other suites and classic rooms too – including some alongside the terrace.
Whilst the rooms and suites are lovely, most people come to Hotel du Vin for excellent food and wine. And it doesn’t disappoint.
For pre-dinner drinks we ventured into Bar 20, a very nicely designed space and room for just enough people for it to be friendly and welcoming, instead of rowdy and impersonal. It’s a great find, and I’d visit again for cosy drinks with a couple of friends.
The main event is of course the restaurant, and an amazing tasting dinner paired with first rate wines was to be savoured. With high expectations and empty tummies, we were eager to enjoy, and the experience was even better than we’d hoped. Our Sommelier for the night was fantastic – super knowledgeable as you’d expect, and really had a passion for discovering lesser-known wines and seemed delighted to share this with us.
Waking up, we were fully prepared to just have fruit and coffee and pass on a hearty breakfast after dining so well the night before – that is until we spotted dishes of the most amazing full English pass by. It was fantastic. One of the best we’ve enjoyed in quite a while.
A super place to stay, drink and dine, whether with family, friends or on a romantic break.
https://www.hotelduvin.com/locations/winchester/
By Lisa Curtiss
