I recently entered a competition in the Travel Trade press to suggest a new ‘Experience’ for guests at adult only Warner Hotels in the UK. To my surprise I was asked to go to the beautiful Holme Lacy in Hereford to take part in a cupcake decorating experience, which they are now hoping to roll out to the other hotels.

We were allowed to take a guest, and as my lovely mum was over from Republic of Ireland, I decided to take her with me. Two other travel agents were also invited – one took her mum and another took her husband. The latter said that at first her husband wasn’t really looking forward to decorating cakes with a group of ladies, but I think he thoroughly enjoyed it in the end!

We had a lovely drink on arrival in the atmospheric terrace lounge, which is complete with high ceiling, before taking a tour of the house and grounds. This stunning country house was just ‘up my street’, and as the sun was out the garden tour was even more enticing. Surrounded by lovely hills and countryside, the whole property is a delightful retreat for couples and adults wanting to escape the hurley burley of busy lives.

We enjoyed a nice lunch on the terrace overlooking the lake, before heading off to commence with the cake decorating experience.

Travel Agents are not generally renowned for their culinary skills (well at least not this one!) but we all had a lot of fun trying to make some interesting creations with butter icing, colourings, royal icing and silver balls! As you can see from the pictures we didn’t take it TOO seriously!

Warner Leisure Hotels offer a variety of experiences for their guests and fantastic entertainment as well. They are ideal for a peaceful weekend with like-minded adults, and offer a chance to relax and enjoy each others company. I strongly suggest you put your phones on silent to get the most out of your break.

The hotel was so lovely that I have booked a long weekend at Holme Lacy House for myself and my husband in October, and we are looking forward to seeing the autumn colours of this beautiful country hotel and the surrounding countryside.

Barbara Charlton – Travel Counsellor & Columnist for Selling Long Haul Magazine