Sir Christopher Wren's House

Lacrimosa

Location, location, location? 27th August 2008

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Sir Christopher Wren's House is a hotel and spa in Windsor which also comprises Strok's Restaurant and what they describe as a 'Martini & Champagne Terrace'. It's also possible to get a traditional afternoon tea there - including finger sandwiches, scones, little cakes and so on - for the reasonable price of £13.50 (as of August 2008). These may be served either in one of the hotel's lounge areas, or out on terrace overlooking the Thames.

The first reason I wanted to mention this place is its fabulous location - the middle of Windsor, close to the castle, and overlooking both the Thames and the old bridge joining Windsor to Eton. It's a location which allows you to watch the sun gently setting over the river as you sip a cocktail or coffee on the terrace, while the swans, handsome Etonian boys, and tourists all mill about nearby. If you're lucky a decent busker may be on the bridge, within earshot. I've not eaten in the restaurant, but understand it's pretty good if a little pricey. It's also a wonderful looking 17th century building, all red brick and wood panelling - very mellow and traditional English.

The second reason I wanted to mention this place, however, is that it's a hotel that seems inordinately fond of big functions. If you're looking for a venue for a wedding or corporate event, then this is the perfect place for you! Unfortunately the upshot of this is that if you're a local hoping to drop in for afternoon tea with a few friends, or a visitor wanting book a romantic meal for two, one tends to get shoved in a corner well out of the way of their Very Important Function. That and/or the place is virtually empty, save for the group booking. Not good!

Does anyone know if Sir Christopher Wren's House is better place to visit in the winter, in this respect? Have I just been unlucky? As I live within walking distance of this hotel, I'm reluctant to give up on it just as yet.