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18 January 2023Weaving its spell
Surrender to sweet slumber surrounded by timber beams, original features and the very best in contemporary creature comforts
G Before my arrival at The Swan at Lavenham, I had researched the historic hotel and its surroundings on a variety of websites. Therefore, because the medieval market town had featured in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1, a somewhat popular story about a teenaged wizard, I couldn’t help but have Freddie Mercury’s dulcet tones running through my head singing the Queen hit, It’s a Kind of Magic.
The Swan at Lavenham, about 20 miles south of Bury St Edmunds as the crow flies, is best described as a magical retreat in the heart of the town. Located in Suffolk, the town of Lavenham was the heart of the wool industry in the 14th century. Paying homage to its wool and weaving history is Weavers’ House Spa, part of The Swan at Lavenham. The saying ‘bigger is not always better’ certainly applies to this secluded sanctuary. Spa director Alex Hurt’s expert knowledge and passion for the wellbeing industry is evident in Weavers’ House Spa.
She has carefully sourced a mix of independent and well-known brands as well as local products creating a spa experience and treatment menu dedicated to health and comfort, in a haven of tranquillity. In addition to the six treatment rooms, there is a sauna and steam room and an outdoor jacuzzi.
Immersing yourself in the jacuzzi inhaling the crisp, clean air, as twilight falls is soothing to both the mind and soul. The spa’s mantra is that your wellness journey should start with an ‘invisible hug’ and it shows.
The Swan at Lavenham, about 20 miles south of Bury St Edmonds as the crow flies, is best described as a magical retreat
Rooms in The Swan at Lavenham are cosily decorated and have just the right amount of modernity to complement the 15th century building. Mirroring Weavers’ House Spa, there are Temple Spa amenities in the rooms, as well as a range of herbal teas, coffee, and complimentary water, both still and sparkling. Given the current times, there is a letter from the head-housekeeper in the room reassuring guests of fastidious standards of cleanliness.
There are 45 rooms on offer and they are all individual in size, character, and style. The newest room addition is The Lavenham Priory Suite, which isn’t under the hotel’s immediate roof but located just a short stroll from The Swan at Lavenham, via Water Street, and is perfect for those seeking that extra soupçon of privacy. A decadent four-poster bed, large en-suite bathroom and cosy living room with fireplace coupled with a secluded courtyard complete this simply stunning and cosy suite.
Rooms in The Swan at Lavenham are cosily decorated and have just the right amount of modernity
You can see that The Swan at Lavenham is dedicated to supporting local and independent producers and suppliers. The Airman’s Bar, named in honour of the US airmen that used to meet up here during the war, has a variety of internationally recognised drinks brands, however, all bar one of the gins on offer are from the UK (including five from Suffolk), the rogue non-local being from Spain.
Beers and ciders are from local suppliers, Adnams, a Suffolk-based brewery and St Peter’s in Norfolk. There is also a small number of English wines on their wine list, including sparkling wine.
The Gallery Restaurant has an elegant and relaxed atmosphere. It is not stuffy or pretentious. The menu is succinct and is written in a manner that describes each dish perfectly without being fussy. However, a pet peeve of mine was on display: it does irritate the pedant in me somewhat to see a menu celebrating ‘vine-ripened tomatoes’ – most tomatoes are ripened on the vine!
There is a selection of dishes, comprising everything and anything a carnivore, pescatarian or vegetarian might want and a choice of daily specials, one of which was Beef Wellington.
The Airman’s Bar is named in honour of the US airmen that used to meet up here during the war
I asked if I could have a slice from the centre, if possible and when it arrived, it was everything I had been hoping for. Quiveringly pink in the middle, surrounded by melt in the mouth pastry – utterly divine! The beef was exceptionally tender and was cooked to perfection.
Instead of a sweet pudding, I opted for the cheeseboard which featured a mixture of sharp, smooth, creamy, and hard cheeses. The staff are knowledgeable when it comes to the menu, as well as the wines available by the bottle and the glass. Their delivery is not formal nor is it informal, but it is efficient, engaging, and friendly … what more could you ask for?
Breakfast features a selection of locally sourced items and, like dinner the previous evening, was presented beautifully. There is a choice which includes the traditional full English to kippers, to avocado toast as well as fresh fruit, toast and preserves.
The Swan at Lavenham is in a historically stunning building, with narrow corridors and beautiful beams. The contemporary soft furnishings that fuse elegantly with the traditional features create an air of magical serenity that runs throughout. If you are seeking an escape, that is a break from normality, which exudes individuality and is refreshingly non-cookie-cutter and an advocate of supporting local and independent brands and suppliers, The Swan at Lavenham truly is a kind of magic.
Words: Li Boatwright
- The Swan at Lavenham
- Rooms at The Swan at Lavenham start from £150 per room on a bed and breakfast basis, based on two people sharing
- Tel: +44 (0)1787 247 477
- To book a stay and table to dine in the Gallery restaurant at the Swan at Lavenham Hotel and Spa call 01787 247477 or visit the website