The Relais Henley, Henley-on-Thames

Nestled in picturesque Henley-on-Thames, The Relais Henley is a charming boutique hotel with a top-notch restaurant – and its two licensed wedding venues are the icing on the cake. All aboard!

Always dreamed of a night aboard a vintage yacht with mahogany panelling a-plenty? Well you wouldn’t be far off with a stay at The Relais Henley, a gorgeous riverside retreat on the bank of the Thames. Housed in a fully renovated 16th Century coaching inn a short walk from the action of central Henley, The Relais caters for every mood, whether you’re staycationing or a local looking for a chic watering hole.

The Relais Henley has 40 guest rooms, one of which was occupied by King Charles I en route from London to Oxford, and its interiors retain a regal flavour. This characterful spot combines 16th Century charm (hello rustic exposed beams) with plenty of nautical nods to Henley’s rowing tradition and the natural beauty of the nearby Chiltern Hills. The result is cosy and inviting with an air of quiet luxury.

The hotel is also home to a foodie gem, Restaurant Dominic Chapman, which up serves classic British cooking. It’s the first eponymous restaurant from the chef who previously worked with Heston Blumenthal at both The Fat Duck and The Hind’s Head, before winning a Michelin star while head chef at The Royal Oak in Paley Street. The restaurant leads out into the courtyard, which hosts live music and pop-ups during the summer months. If the weather’s not playing ball, head to the Quarterdeck Bar or the Clip Bar for the perfect pre- or post-dinner sip. There’s also  a cosy deli for freshly made fare and The Salon, which is just the spot for a business meeting or memorable celebration.

Which brings us nicely on to weddings. The Relais Henley is perfectly appointed for your big day, with two spaces licensed for ceremonies. The Salon, an elegant space with river views, is perfect for smaller, more intimate ceremonies of up to 60 guests, and The Courtyard can host up to 100 guests (you can put up a marquee here too). For serious style creds, the happy couple can arrive at the venue by boat. Planning an overnighter? Choose between rooms looking out over the courtyard, the river, or the townscape of Henley-on-Thames, each individually designed and stocked with gorgeous natural toiletries, Illy coffee machines, flat-screen TVs and the obligatory fluffy robes and slippers. And it’s no problem if you want to bring your four-legged friend too. The Relais Henley has partnered with dog-friendly travel agent PetsPyjamas (experts in tail-waggingly good holidays), so book the pooch in to one of the hotel’s dog-friendly rooms or enjoy the outside space in the courtyard.

So, say ‘I do’ to elegant weddings, top-notch all-day dining (the afternoon tea is dreamy), and stylish overnight stays. The Relais Henley is a perfect base for exploring the Thames, the charms of Henley, or one of the many events held in the town throughout the year. Take your pick from the Regatta, the Rewind Festival, the Henley Festival, or the Henley Literary Festival for starters – your only problem will be fitting it all in. All aboard!


Need to Know

Address:
The Relais Henley, Hart Street, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2AR

Website:
www.therelaishenley.com

Email:
info@therelaishenley.com

Telephone:
+44 (0) 1491 52 32 88

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