When my group of friends said they wanted to meet in early 2024, I was the first in the WhatsApp group to say YES. That was the easy part. The challenge was finding a place that fit everyone's busy schedules and requirements.
Far-flung, exotic destinations are quickly ruled out (too long, too expensive), then become Euro escapes (shorter in length, but still too expensive) for a dozen-plus bargain-hunting middle-aged people with no time. until a group in the United Kingdom finally reached an agreement. But here? And what should we do?
We needed a place that could easily accommodate at least a dozen guests, was easily accessible, fairly luxurious, and private (you could be as loud or emotional as you wanted). I knew something. And, and this was the important part, to maintain health and fitness so you go home feeling relaxed and rested, rather than feeling like you worked hard for 48 hours at a festival.
An online search led us to the White House through Kate & Tom's, a six-bedroom Georgian mansion set on 52 acres in Essex Park near Halstead. We booked her one night getaway in February and were hoping it would live up to our countless expectations.
White House? Looks like the president…
Trust me, Joe Biden would happily stay here. It's truly huge and the photos on the website can't do it justice in terms of its size and beauty.
The charismatic owner, Antoine Dixon-Bello, came outside to greet us and give us a quick tour. During that time, we collected stories from his life. The father-of-two started out on an annual income of £15,000 and is now a multi-millionaire property and media entrepreneur. He was in his 40s and we a) wondered what he had been doing all his life and b) he wanted to invest in (any) real estate soon.
He laughed and left, leaving us with the keys to what is arguably one of the best private country houses to rent in the Southeast, complete with east and west wings, lighted tennis court and stables. Left behind. What could go wrong?
So spilling the beans, what's going on inside?
can't believe it.From the moment we walked in the (very large) front door, things moved a little bit salt burn (Excluding murder/drugs/plots). We lived in a world where grand pianos, chandeliers, full-sized snooker tables, manicured lawns, and ballrooms (yes, actual ballrooms) were commonplace.
And we immediately felt at home. Everyone excitedly chose their room, checked out the kitchen, and at first got lost and ran around. By the time I discovered my “spare” bedroom/library downstairs, I had forgotten how to get back to the hallowed kitchen. Luckily, a laugh brought me safely back to my snack.
When it comes to decor, forget your Essex stereotypes. This palatial pad has been exquisitely and sympathetically restored in keeping with its history (originally known as Greenstead Hall, dating back to 1875), so that it resembles an ancient building. It looks like this. House & Garden TOWIE has a blue-panelled dining room with a polished oak table that seats 14, and a surprisingly cozy lounge (or should I say drawing room?) with detailed coving. Please think about it.
The bedroom is also luxurious. I slept at Versailles, which was nothing short of luxurious, with a huge bed and heavy curtains that blocked out the light brilliantly while I lay there on a rare Sunday. My private bathroom was painted a sexy dark blue and had a separate bathtub, as well as a private rooftop terrace.
That's luxury, but what exactly is this a spa weekend?
Okay, this is the best. From the kitchen, follow the hallway and you'll arrive at *drumroll* a heated indoor pool, sauna, hot tub, and fully equipped gym (treadmills, rowing machines, weights, yoga mats, medicine balls, etc.). My jaw drops. You read that right: The White House has its own wellbeing center, and it's bigger and better than any spa area we've ever seen in a hotel.
Without hesitation, I changed into my swimsuit and used it. all facility. I thought swimming side by side, sharing gossip in the sauna, or chatting in the hot tub felt much more intimate than spending a boozy night out with friends at a fancy restaurant or club. You can be as loud as you like without using the quiet spa voice.
The highlight of the weekend was a late-night snooker match (probably the longest ever, due to lack of skill) and a midnight dip, but this time I made good use of the plastic cups provided by the pool to enjoy the luxury. We toasted the night. From kids/partners/worries, over a pint (you can't do that) that at Champneys).
But the most magical part was the late night yoga session in the stunning ballroom on Sunday. My friend Joe is a qualified teacher and guided us through a series of gentle stretches and breathing exercises as the sun streamed in through the elegant windows and a wonderful sense of calm settled over us. It's the ideal atmosphere before returning to your busy life. If you don't have a yogi, the owners will happily arrange for an instructor to come to your home (we thought it would make a great yoga retreat – watch this space!).
And what about the food?
The White House is self-catering, but as you would expect in a place this grand, there are plenty of options for doing nothing, including a full catering package with a private chef and butler.
Walking and waiting empty-handed was tempting, so we opted for simple (and cheap) Mediterranean takeout at The Shish in nearby Halstead. Our grand dining table was soon filled with a feast of lamb shish, sea bass (with salad and rice), chicken kofti, falafel, halloumi, and gossip.
Conveniently, the kitchen is wonderfully equipped, including an Aga, more pots and household utensils than you need, so heating and serving everything was no problem.
If you're staying for more than a night, there are plenty of decent local restaurants, including Dedham's Maison Talboos Riverside Restaurant and the Michelin-starred Flitch of Bacon.
anything else?
In fact, there are many. As we walked around the grounds, we came into view of the lake and the wedding barn. Yes, of course you can have your wedding here. With acres of space, the house and grounds will be a spectacular backdrop for your wedding photos.
I would like to rent this place in the summer. That's when you can open the doors and make the most of the large terrace with dining table and barbecue. There also seems to be a croquet lawn. Sigh.
verdict
It felt like no expense was spared on any aspect of the home. Even though the property was built in the 1800s, the finishes were perfect and everything looked fresh and new (some of my companions thought it was new construction!). Whether you're looking for a unique place to celebrate an important anniversary or birthday with family and friends, a summer getaway, or a wedding, you won't be disappointed.
There were 12 people in our party and we comfortably filled the 6 bedrooms (a combination of doubles and twins), but if you needed more space there were beds, sofa beds and even more in the cottage next door. A further 10 beds are available, including 4. The maximum capacity is 22 total. That's excellent.
How can I hire one?
Prices start from £3,000 per night, £250 per person based on 12 people.