On a recent visit to Langdon Hall, Cambridge, I was very impressed by the standards they set. Our room was ready upon arrival at 2:00 PM. And what a stately room it was; spacious and magnificently furnished. I was delighted to see a fireplace and there was lots of wood available in and outside the room. The bathroom had a deep tub and they provided bath salts. We definitely took advantage of both fireplace and bathtub during our stay!

But what was truly impressive was the fact that someone remembered me mentioning that it was my husband’s birthday. Waiting for us was a sweet package of apple muffins, beautifully packaged with a red ribbon and a card wishing him Happy Birthday. It’s the little things that count.

We took a walk around the grounds which were spectacular. Then we came back and awaiting our dinner which was served in our room. The sommelier advised us about the wine, which turned out to be very memorable! The food was outstanding especially the cheese platter I had for dessert which included local honey.

I had reserved a garden tour the next morning and I feel that this was the highlight of the stay. It even surpassed the lobster scrambled eggs, served with fresh croissants, a berry bowl and fresh OJ. So what was so special about the tour? It was led by the head gardener and he was so passionate about what he did. We toured the garden, learned a lot and by the end of the tour, I was inspired to grow herbs and veggies in my backyard. This is a major shift for me as I was really not that interested in gardening and left most of those chores to my husband. But I was inspired and over the next few weeks, I went to the garden centre, bought mint, Thai basil, cilantro, chives, regular basil and thyme. I love that I am able to go out to the garden and pick some herbs to add flavour to my dishes! I also bought lilies and hydrangeas which I planted. I am really enjoying my garden this year, and it is thanks to the tranquil setting of Langdon Hall and their dedicated staff, that I have found a new passion!

Langdon Hall is part of Relais et Chateaux, and this designation puts them in good company amongst the most coveted properties around the world. I feel very lucky to have Langdon Hall in close proximity so my home so that I can go visit often. Next time, I will make use of their fabulous spa, which I have tried in the past.