Bittescombe Lodge review, Somerset, Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Homes UK

Bittescombe Lodge is situated on a 400-acre estate

(Image credit: Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Homes)

published 3 February 2023

A fire sits roaring in the intimate entrance hall of Bittescombe Lodge, an invitation into what will become home for at least the next two nights. At once impressive and comforting, it’s an immediate indicator of the warmth that radiates throughout every aspect of the 400-acre estate.

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Part of the Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Homes collection, in partnership with StayOne, there’s a quiet elegance to the décor and a light touch over practical aspects like service and quality, while also tapping into the endearing idiosyncrasies and simplicity of rural Somerset. This is a place of relaxation and decadence that also encourages exploration of the stunning countryside, walking through mud in Hunter wellies and a Barbour jacket.

The main reception area epitomises the ease with which Bittescombe Lodge fuses opulence and homely comfort. It’s a vast space as one might expect from two renovated barns, but a hearty fire and pockets of plush green leather sofas and reading chairs provide cosy places to play board games that are dotted around with the same frequency as Hermès blankets. Or sit with a book and enjoy a drink from the fully-stocked bar.

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There are echoes of a French chalet in the wooden walls and rustic tables which complement the grand spaces by ensuring everything feels luxurious without ostentation. Whispers of the deer park, which sits on the estate, and the local Somerset culture are also felt throughout, with two proud stags mounted on either end of the impressive dining room where breakfast and dinner is served. But these notes were subtle, and we were assured that both stags had lived long, full lives; one in France and the other in Bittescombe’s own deer park.

Only available to rent in its entirety, Bittescombe Lodge feels like home for the length of your stay and there’s genuine warmth at every turn. This is evident in the attentive and personal service, which is where the influence of the Mandarin Oriental brand is most obvious. There is no pretension, and by the time bags are packed and Range Rovers are transferring your party back to the station, everyone will be on a first-name basis.

Tucked away behind a hidden doorway are ten bedrooms, each of which has been named according to its distinct personality. The Heights is particularly impressive with a mezzanine where a standing round top bath sits, overlooking the perfectly made bed below. For eccentric tastes, one room is decorated head to toe with china ducks, or for lovers of bright colours, another has a geometric yellow backboard above the bed, reminiscent of a honeycomb.

The star of the culinary show is the estate’s own produce. Deer, which are humanely culled to prevent overgrazing and starvation, are repurposed at the expert hands of Michelin-starred chef, Richard Picard-Edwards, into delectable dishes like roast loin, sausage and ragu of venison with buttered turnips and chocolate. For non-meat eaters, the seasonal and fresh vegetables from the garden and honey straight from Bittescombe’s own beehive have the same standout effect. Each menu is artfully designed with the current party in mind, taking preferences and allergies into account with faultless attention to detail.

This translates effortlessly into the drinks, which are free flowing and high quality. The fully stocked bar includes a woody Saint Veran, local Somerset gin for a generously poured long drink and any cocktail that comes to mind from the dirtiest of martinis to Bloody Marys. The consideration is just as flawless with non-alcoholic drinks. Whatever the order, the staff will remember and ensure you always have the option of a top up or refill.

Head outside to truly experience everything that Bittescombe Lodge has to offer. Whether a beginner or experienced shooter, safely try clay pigeon shooting with the guidance of experienced locals and staff and then take a walk with the estate manager through the deer park to see Bittescombe’s herds and leave knowing more about deer than you ever thought possible. Horse riding and polo can also be arranged as well as fishing, paddleboarding and kayaking.