Macdonald Compleat Angler (see review from 2009 here), which overlooks the River Thames in Marlow, Buckinghamshire has invested a substantial amount in a refurbishment programme, which sees the hotel enter a new chapter in its long history. Interior public areas have been transformed into a stylish blend of contemporary design, whilst maintaining the original features of the hotel. The centrepiece of the upgrade is the opening of the new Riverside Restaurant, which has stunning views of Marlow weir and the Thames, as well as the redesigned Walton Bar and reception area.
The hotel has worked working closely with the interior designers, THR3 Design, to ensure the new furnishings complement the style and elegance of the hotel and its idyllic riverside location.
One side of the newly-named Walton Bar now features a more contemporary design with a polished dark oak wood floor, while the other half has a more classic feel softened with carpets; there is some fixed seating plus comfortable tub-style and high backed chairs in shades which compliment the scheme. The walls feature the original oak panelling and a selection of prints illustrating reproductions of the original artwork plates from the book The Compleat Angler.
The Riverside Restaurant has been designed to retain a fine dining aesthetic while still serving as a functional breakfast space for hotel guests. In the newly re-roofed conservatory area the design flows through to complete the feel of this unique hotel located on the banks of the Thames, with the addition of a temperature controlled wine display area where guests can view and select their own wine to accompany their meals.
Furnishings have been specially selected from a range of high-end fabric houses including Zoffany. Also bespoke cabinet items have been designed and tailor made to complement the feel of the restaurants, with the addition of Chelsom pendants lighting to ensure that the overall finish is to the highest possible specification.
The hotel’s two executive boardrooms have also received a significant upgrade including the installation of a new, state-of-the-art interactive SMARTboard in the Balmoral meeting room, which also has a private outdoor decked area.
Rated one of the top hotels in England with four coveted AA red stars, Macdonald Compleat Angler is also part of The Macdonald Hotels’ Signature Collection.
Dating back to the 17th century, the hotel takes its name from Isaak Walton’s world-famous book on angling. Most of the 64 rooms and suites have lovely river views while others are within sight and sound of cascading water over Marlow Weir.
Conveniently close to the M4 and M40, Macdonald Compleat Angler is perfectly placed, close to Windsor and Henley for executive board meetings and walking by the river. The hotel was also part of a £1million group-wide investment by Macdonald Hotels to offer free, unlimited WiFi powered by The Cloud.
Macdonald Hotels & Resorts recently celebrated being named AA Hotel Group of the Year 2013/14.
