On the Road to Keswick Hall in Keswick, Virginia
The renovation featured Laura Ashley fabrics and wall coverings to decorate the property, along with many of his own personal furnishings and antiques from his other homes. You do have the sense that you are visiting friends or relatives during your stay. In fact, you get so comfortable that you do not want to leave! Beamer was ready to stay too (they are pet friendly property).
We stayed in what was once Sir Bernard Ashley’s room when he visited Keswick Hall
The architecture and the views from our room made me feel like I was in Provence or Tuscany
Beamer was content
Orient-Express purchased the hotel from Sir Bernard Ashley in 1999 (for $13.5 million) and has made a few changes to the property including the addition of a new pool and Fossett’s restaurant (an interview with their Executive Chef is coming later this week). However, the property has remained very much the same and has held to Sir Ashley’s vision of vacationing in a country estate. The fabrics and antiques remain today.
The outdoor dining area at Fossett’s Bar
Your dog can enjoy a cocktail with you outdoors
Why didn’t I bring a bathing suit?
By the way, Patricia did share with us the story of an unsolved murder that took place on the property in the 1970’s. The golf pro was murdered one evening while leaving the property with his wife. They went to get into separate cars and suddenly the husband was shot and killed, as the wife recounted the story to police. However, the wife was not injured and no one ever found the perpetrator? I bet I could have solved that mystery. 😉
Thank you so much to Patricia for taking the time to meet with us and share the story of Keswick Hall. If you are interested in learning more about the history of the property, you can visit the website StoryofKeswick.com.
Beamer and I are working on solving the murder. We will get back to you shortly!
Enjoy your week!
Disclosure – Keswick Hall comped two of the nights during our stay.
Interesting history on a magnificent property! Although Keswick Hall is much larger and more elaborate, it reminds me of Clark House at Hayden Lake, Idaho – that house has a rather interesting history too! Looking forward to the chef interview and reading about the food and wine 😉
Oh, my gosh, Gwen! You had me at “murder mystery”!!! I am going to see my dear friend and blogging buddy Anne in VA, in two weeks. I am seriously considering going over to visit this lovely property!
Love Beamer!!!
Breathtaking views Gwen. Really enjoyed the history and beautiful architecture. Laura Ashley designs are fabulous, so comfy! Perfect for Keswick Hall if you ask me.
How incredibly beautiful! And to think, it’s an easy day trip for me. I think you sold me on the place. Now I just need to find someone to go with me.
what can I say it is gorgeous!!! love the scenery.
I want to live there too!
What a beautiful post about a fabulous place! Your photos are incredible! Did you get to meet Matthias Smith, the GM, while you were there? He’s a truly special person and makes a wonderful place even better (if possible).
Hi Amy,
We never had the opportunity to meet Mathias. We were so busy and out much of the time we were at Keswick Hall. I heard that he is delightful and I am sorry we missed him. I guess we will have to return so that we have the opportunity. 🙂
Gwen
this is just stunning!
Beamer there looks like a prince on th ebed for asec there:). I live in VA and never been. Looks so gorgeous the infinity pool and all. Great trip!!
I’ll bet you my dog Britta could solve that murder mystery, too.
The grounds of Keswick Hall are GORGEOUS. I love staying in places that feel more like a home… less like a resort.
We don’t have that many beautiful properties here on the west coast. (Another reason to visit you?)
[K]
Stately and elegant, yet decidedly comfortable. Beautiful grounds and Beamer looks quite at home! Your photos are always stunning – thanks for sharing another beautiful reason to visit the South.