点评:My recent wedding anniversary celebration at Hellaby Hall was, in many respects, a masterclass in the art of hospitality, particularly given the eleventh-hour nature of its arrangement. The initial booking, made at 10:30 at night on a Friday night, was for a Saturday stay, but as Saturday was unavailable, it was then arranged for a Sunday day and overnight stay, presenting a considerable challenge. Yet, the professionalism and unwavering dedication of the receptionist, Rosie, were nothing short of exemplary. Despite multiple calls made one after another, a testament to the complexities of securing such an experience on short notice, Rosie remained remarkably informative and accommodating. Her ability to swiftly arrange thoughtful touches like petals, chocolate, and prosecco in the room for our arrival speaks volumes of her commitment to guest satisfaction.
Architectural Pedigree and Historical Resilience
Hellaby Hall itself is a fascinating study in architectural evolution and historical resilience. Completed in 1692, it stands as a distinguished example of Jacobean design, a period that saw a captivating fusion of traditional English forms with burgeoning classical influences. One immediately discerns the subtle yet distinct "Dutch impression" in its facade , a stylistic echo likely brought by its original builder, Ralph Fretwell, whose fortune was amassed through connections to the Barbados sugar plantations. The Hall's entrance, with its "open segmental entablature on Tuscan Pilasters" and gables adorned with "big, fleshy volutes" , speaks to the era's desire for grandeur. Constructed from local "coursed magnesium limestone" for three sides and the more refined "Roche Ashlar" for its prominent front elevation , it showcases a deliberate choice of materials to convey status. Furthermore, its unique placement on a hill necessitated an "extra storey" at the front, a clever architectural solution that enhances its imposing presence.
The Hall's history is as rich and layered as its architecture. Ralph Fretwell, a Quaker, faced significant persecution for his beliefs, including his removal as Chief Justice in Barbados. His return to Hellaby to build this grand home, completed in 1692, suggests a desire for a sanctuary after such adversity. The Hall's journey through various owners, its period as a humble farmhouse, and the regrettable removal of original features like its staircase and oak panelling , underscore the fluctuating fortunes of such estates. Most notably, its survival after a devastating fire in July 1980 and subsequent meticulous restoration under the guidance of English Heritage is a testament to its enduring significance and the commitment to preserving this Grade II listed property. It truly is a phoenix from the ashes, now seamlessly blending its historic charm with contemporary luxury.
Arrival, Relaxation, and Culinary Delights
My arrival at Hellaby Hall marked the beginning of a unique sequence of events. Upon stepping onto the grounds, a sense of immediate relaxation took hold. We first indulged in the hot tub, a welcome prelude to our stay, offering a perfect transition into a state of unwinding. This was followed by our pre-booked treatment, a hot stone 50-minute massage, executed with precision and grace. Despite my later realisation that I could have requested more pressure, it was a profoundly relaxing and rewarding treatment, leaving both my wife and I feeling thoroughly refreshed. The Fretwell Spa, with its "zen-like spa garden" and outdoor hot tubs, clearly offers a haven of tranquility.
Only after these initial moments of relaxation did we proceed to the sign-in process, which was efficient, allowing us to quickly settle into our room, where Rosie's thoughtful arrangements of petals, chocolate, and prosecco awaited.
The evening's dinner was, without hyperbole, phenomenal. The chef and kitchen staff are clearly artisans, their passion evident in every dish. The three-course taste sensation was thoroughly enjoyed, a true highlight of the stay. It was from The Carnelly Restaurant, with its large windows overlooking the rear gardens , that the view outside proved utterly tranquil, well-preserved, and indeed, inspiring an urge to paint. The sight of rabbits running around carefree amidst gardens kept to an almost pristine standard was a delightful touch, reinforcing the sense of a peaceful countryside retreat. The thoughtful inclusion of a little masterpiece ice cream with strawberries with 'Happy Anniversary' finely written on the plate with melted chocolate at the end of our meal was a charming and memorable gesture. However, it was during this otherwise impeccable dining experience that a minor, yet for a wine enthusiast, significant, misstep occurred. As someone with a vast knowledge of wine, I found the unavailability of our chosen Shiraz, and the subsequent substitution, rather insulting. The issue isn't merely the absence of a specific bottle; it's the fundamental understanding of how a particular varietal, from a specific region or vintage, contributes to the overall gastronomic experience. A Shiraz, for instance, is chosen for its characteristic notes of dark fruit, pepper, and often a smoky finish, which would have been carefully considered to complement the richness of the meal. When the selected wine is unavailable, and a different, albeit well-intentioned, alternative is offered, it fundamentally alters the intended flavour profile and the nuanced interplay with the food. While I understood the staff member was inexperienced and was trying to be accommodating, a truly discerning establishment would either have the chosen wine, or a sommelier capable of recommending a truly comparable alternative, explaining the rationale. This is not a critique of effort, but of the depth of knowledge required to elevate a dining experience from excellent to truly exceptional.
A Morning of Contrasts
Breakfast the next morning was, once again, a culinary triumph – the best of any hotel I have visited to date.
Regrettably, the serene ambiance of breakfast was momentarily disrupted by the presence of an obscenely rude couple. Their blatant disregard for basic decorum – entering the restaurant without a booking, immediately helping themselves to plates, and shouting their room number when questioned – was quite frankly, appalling. Their subsequent attempt to depart without settling their bill, requiring staff to contact reception to ensure payment, was a further display of their complete lack of consideration. While I was personally aggrieved by their attitude, rudeness towards staff, and a complete disregard for the rules, the Hellaby Hall staff were fantastic, calm, and remained professional throughout, despite their clear annoyance. A genuine pat on the back is due to all concerned for handling such an unpleasant situation with such composure.
The Enduring Appeal of Hellaby Hall
In conclusion, Hellaby Hall in Rotherham is, without doubt, a must-visit destination for those who appreciate a blend of profound history, striking architecture, and refined hospitality. Its historical setting, grand building, exquisite food, and generally good service – which I anticipate will only improve as the newer staff members gain experience – stand out. The unwavering professionalism no matter the situation, as demonstrated by the team, and the quality of the treatment to calm the nerves and distress you from life's many challenges, solidify its appeal. Once again, a special commendation to Rosie for transforming what could have been a stressful anniversary (given my forgetfulness!) into a truly stressless occasion, a testament to the dedicated team at Hellaby Hall.
翻译:我最近在赫拉比庄园举办的结婚纪念日庆祝活动,在很多方面都堪称款待艺术的大师级典范,尤其考虑到它安排得如此仓促。最初的预订是在周五晚上10:30进行的,原本是周六入住,但由于周六无法预订,后来被安排到周日入住,这对我而言是一个不小的挑战。然而,接待员罗西的专业精神和不懈的奉献精神堪称典范。尽管我接连打了好几个电话,这足以证明在短时间内预订这样一场体验的复杂性,但罗西仍然非常乐于助人,并且非常乐于助人。她能够迅速地为我们准备花瓣、巧克力和普罗塞克起泡酒等贴心小物,充分体现了她对宾客满意度的重视。
建筑谱系与历史韧性
赫拉比庄园本身就是一项关于建筑演变和历史韧性的引人入胜的研究。该建筑竣工于1692年,是詹姆士一世时期设计的杰出典范。这一时期见证了传统英式建筑形式与蓬勃发展的古典主义风格的完美融合。其外观一眼便能辨别出一种微妙而独特的“荷兰印象”,这种风格很可能源自其最初的建造者拉尔夫·弗雷特韦尔,他的财富源于与巴巴多斯甘蔗种植园的联系。大厅的入口采用“托斯卡纳壁柱上的开放式弧形柱顶”和饰有“巨大丰满的涡卷”的山墙,体现了那个时代对宏伟壮丽的追求。大厅三面采用当地的“层状镁石灰岩”,正面则采用更为精致的“罗氏方石”,其精心的材料选择彰显了其地位。此外,由于其独特的山丘位置,正面需要“额外的楼层”,这一巧妙的建筑方案增强了其气势恢宏的气势。
这座庄园的历史与其建筑一样丰富多彩,层次丰富。贵格会教徒拉尔夫·弗雷特韦尔因其信仰而遭受严重迫害,包括被免去巴巴多斯首席大法官的职务。他回到赫拉比建造了这座宏伟的庄园,并于1692年竣工,体现了在经历如此逆境后寻求庇护的渴望。庄园经历了数位主人的更迭,曾是一座简陋的农舍,以及令人遗憾地拆除了楼梯和橡木镶板等原有建筑,这些都凸显了这类庄园的命运起伏。最值得一提的是,它在1980年7月一场毁灭性的大火后幸存下来,随后在英国遗产委员会的指导下进行了精心修复,这证明了它经久不衰的意义以及保护这座二级保护建筑的承诺。它如同浴火重生的凤凰,如今完美地融合了其历史魅力与现代奢华。
抵达、放松与美食
抵达Hellaby Hall,开启了一系列独特的体验。踏入酒店,一种放松感便立即袭来。我们首先在热水浴缸中尽情享受,这为我们入住的旅程拉开了序幕,也为我们进入放松身心的状态提供了完美的过渡。接下来,我们进行了预订的50分钟热石按摩,按摩精准优雅。尽管我后来意识到可以要求更大的力度,但这次按摩确实令人彻底放松,让我和妻子都感到神清气爽。Fretwell Spa拥有“禅意水疗花园”和户外热水浴缸,无疑是一个宁静的港湾。
在最初的放松之后,我们才进行登记,登记过程非常高效,让我们快速安顿下来,入住房间。Rosie精心准备的花瓣、巧克力和普罗塞克葡萄酒已经摆放在房间里,恭候您的光临。
毫不夸张地说,当晚的晚餐堪称完美。厨师和厨房工作人员显然是工匠,他们的热情在每一道菜中都体现出来。三道菜的味道令人非常享受,是这次住宿的一大亮点。从卡内利餐厅的大窗户可以俯瞰后花园,外面的景色非常宁静,保存完好,确实激发了绘画的冲动。兔子在几乎保持原始标准的花园中无忧无虑地奔跑的景象令人赏心悦目,增强了宁静的乡村度假之感。用餐结束时,我们贴心地加入了一小份草莓冰淇淋,盘子上用融化的巧克力精心写着“周年快乐”,这是一个迷人而难忘的举动。然而,就是在这次无可挑剔的用餐体验中,发生了一个小失误,但对于一个葡萄酒爱好者来说,这是一个重大的失误。作为一个对葡萄酒有着广泛了解的人,我发现我们选择的设拉子葡萄酒没有供应,以及随后的替换,这相当令人反感。问题不仅仅是没有特定的一瓶酒;它关乎对特定产区或年份的特定品种葡萄酒如何影响整体美食体验的根本理解。例如,选择设拉子葡萄酒,是因为它独特的深色水果、胡椒以及通常带有烟熏味的余味,这些香气是经过精心考量的,旨在与菜肴的丰盛口感相得益彰。当所选葡萄酒缺货,而餐厅提供另一种(尽管出于好意)的替代葡萄酒时,这会从根本上改变预期的风味特征以及与食物的微妙互动。虽然我理解这位工作人员经验不足,只是想尽力满足您的需求,但真正有眼光的餐厅会提供所选葡萄酒,或者安排一位能够推荐真正可比替代品的侍酒师,并解释其背后的原因。这并不是对努力的批评,而是对将用餐体验从卓越提升到真正卓越所需的知识深度的批判。
充满反差的早晨
第二天早上的早餐,再次成为一场烹饪盛宴——是我迄今为止住过的所有酒店中最好的。
遗憾的是,宁静的早餐氛围被一对粗鲁无礼的夫妇的出现暂时打破。他们公然无视基本的礼仪——未经预订就进入餐厅,立即自行取餐,并在被询问时大声喊出房间号——坦白地说,这令人震惊。随后,他们试图不结账就离开,要求工作人员联系前台确认付款,这进一步表明他们完全缺乏体谅。虽然我个人对他们的态度、对员工的粗鲁以及完全无视规则感到愤慨,但Hellaby Hall的员工非常出色、冷静,尽管明显感到恼火,但始终保持着专业精神。所有相关人员都能如此沉着地处理这种不愉快的情况,值得我们由衷地称赞。
赫拉比庄园的持久魅力
总而言之,对于那些欣赏深厚历史底蕴、气势恢宏的建筑风格和精致待客之道的人来说,位于罗瑟勒姆的赫拉比庄园无疑是一个不容错过的目的地。它的历史氛围、宏伟的建筑、精致的美食以及总体而言优质的服务——我相信随着新员工经验的积累,服务质量还会进一步提升——都令人叹为观止。无论何种情况,团队成员始终秉持着坚定的专业精神,而优质的护理服务能够舒缓紧张的情绪,缓解生活中的种种挑战,这些都进一步巩固了它的魅力。再次特别表扬罗西,她将原本可能令人紧张的周年纪念日(考虑到我的健忘!)变成了一个真正轻松的场合,这充分证明了赫拉比庄园团队的敬业精神。