The DeSouza Associates team did a site inspection to Lainston House Hotel recently and this is Lida’s blog
Lainston House, an Exclusive Hotel, is a 17th century property near Winchester, Hampshire, set in 63 acres of rather lovely parkland.
Some of us had seen the hotel previously (but a long time ago) whereas others hadn’t. In any case, none of us had seen then fantastic new Cookery School, ‘Season’ born out of their great passion for food and dining.
‘Season’ is a great concept inviting us to embrace our own passion for food and hunger for knowledge – all in a fun and relaxed, yet professional setting, providing an opportunity to learn to cook, either by selecting a class by type, by a particular chef or by date.
Seasons Cookery School at Lainston House Hotel
In terms of meeting facilities, all the meeting rooms at the hotel have natural daylight, many having garden terraces or private entrances and state of the art technology including wi-fi and broadband. The original 17th century Dawley Barn, has been converted into a unique private room. Extremely versatile, it can seat up to 46 in a U shape, 40 boardroom, 80 classroom ,166 theatre style and up to 120 for dinners. Very much part of the main house, it has high ceilings and original features including open fires. The Houghton Suite is located on the ground floor and can accommodate up to 25 for a boardroom meeting, 50 theatre style and dining for 40. It is fully equipped with the latest interactive Smartboard technology, 5.1 surround sound system and up to 100Mbps broadband connection. It also makes the perfect dining environment as all the hi-tech is hidden away in the wall panelling, out of view. The hotel also has a further 6 rooms of varying sizes.
Dawley Barn set up for a meeting
Our dinner in Avenue Restaurant, which has 3 AA rosettes, was lovely, although I was a little disappointed that the John Dory was off the menu! Between us we sampled the crab tortellini, mackerel and the ham hock for starters followed by duck, pork loin and of course the fish (cod instead of the John Dory) and for dessert we tested out the chocolate dessert (as you would expect) and the banana creation which was light and very interesting. To be perfectly honest, we did not need a dessert as we were served a pre-dessert which was delicious and more than adequate. The majority of the vegetables, fruit and herbs served in the restaurant come from the well-stocked kitchen garden which is also a lovely and unique venue for drinks, informal dining and activities. Some pictures of the delicious offerings we consumed are attached.
If you’re looking for a Country House Hotel for your next meeting or event, contact DeSouza Associates today.
Lainston House Hotel is currently featured on our Venue of the Season feature – watch their video here
Lainston House Hotel
