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Country Weekends

  • June 28, 2016
  • By Carly Neave

I’ve just arrived back in Dubai with a slight pang of longing to be back in bright green fields and fresh aired weather. After 3 weeks of pub lunches and dog walks in the UK, and beach-filled Mallorca, ‘home’ seems to be a little blurry. Nevertheless, a few days and everything will be back in the swing of things. (Side note: I watched ‘Room’ last night on the plane … heart-breakingly inspirational movie that really does shed a light on why we shouldn’t sweat about the small stuff).

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Whilst I settle back into Dubai life, I’m reminiscing about my incredible weekend celebrating my Nan’s 80th birthday at Foxhills on the weekend. A beautiful country manor with so much character and class, as well as a head chef who certainly knows his way around the kitchen. From the location, to the food, to the service – I would recommend it to anyone who’s looking for a weakend break!

The rooms are stunning; all uniquely decorated but they keep consistency. The junior suites look out over the grounds, the restaurants and one of the tennis courts. Just a few minutes walk away are several more courts which were ‘graced’ with our presence the following morning. I was a little rusty to say the least!

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So quaint.

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After rain (and a little hail) poured down in the morning, the sun broke through upon our arrival.

What else to do but have a celebratory glass of champagne.

Here’s hoping we don’t get this June weather for the wedding!

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An Elemis spa bus parked up ready to serve anyone with facials, mani and pedis!

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With a blanket to hand, and afternoon tea on the go…

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I’m not a big golfer but I’m told this is one of the best courses around. Good for some people watching too if you’re on my side of the table!

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Afternoon tea and champagne finished later than expected (our family gatherings always tend to) so it was pretty much straight into dinner … and well, more champagne. She’s only 80 once after all!

And isn’t she a pretty picture – named June – best Grandmother in the world.

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Mother and godmother aren’t too far behind either!

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Seaweed crisps – any day!

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Safe to say this is my dream room with so much light, character and space. If I was having a very intimate wedding, this would be a perfect setting for the reception dinner.

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Confit salmon with wasabi, asparagus and radish.

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Venison tartare placed under finely sliced sheets of salt baked beetroot, served with chocolate, carrots and pear.

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My starter of Arlington white egg yolk ravioli, served with artichoke, monk’s beard and parmesan.

Exceptional!

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Main course of maple glazed duck, parsnip, apple and feta.

And a side of the most delectable potato dauphinoise.

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My sister’s course was unfortunately a tad over cooked so whilst she was waiting, they brought a stunningly presented palate cleanser. This happened all throughout the weekend (not the overcooked food but the exceptional service) and it really made a huge difference.

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And that smile made the evening!

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After tennis, a morning swim and sauna the following day, we sat down for a farewell lunch.

It was roast lunches all round and of course, a selection of starters and desserts.

The smoked salmon with citrus brown shrimp vinaigrette was beautiful.

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The “Golden cross goat’s cheese salad” wasn’t so much a salad, but a cheese lover’s dream. A little heavy for a starter but if you ask for extra salad leaves, it pairs really well.

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The crumble however was perfection down to a tee. It wasn’t on the set menu we were organically shown, instead I spied it across the room on another table and ordered it immediately. Fruity, rich crumble scattered with fresh berries and freeze dried blackberries – all served with a creamy vanilla ice-cream.

This is why I love balance, people!

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A wonderful weekend in an exceptional venue. Now to stop missing and start enjoying my other beautiful home – Dubai!

Have you ever been to Foxhills or a similar country manor? Let me know your best weekend breaks!

LLG x

 

By Carly Neave, June 28, 2016 Hello and welcome! I'm Carly, originally from London but currently enjoying a little adventure in Dubai. A travel and wellness blogger exploring the world one step at a time. Think fabulous food at undiscovered gems, unique destinations, skin care obsessions and so much more. This is my life, I hope you enjoy the ride!
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3 Comments
  • Nicola Mayall
    June 29, 2016

    Makes me homesick, Carly! The food looks amazing! And your Grandmother is never 80!!

  • Foxhills Club & Resort
    June 29, 2016

    Hi Carly,

    Thanks for your post – we’re glad you had a good break, and especially glad your grandmother’s celebrations went well. Great pictures of a wonderful family occasion! Hope you had a safe flight back to Dubai and we hope to see you again soon.

    Kind regards,
    The Team at Foxhills Club & Resort

Carly Neave

Hello and welcome! I'm Carly, originally from London but currently enjoying a little adventure in Dubai. A travel and wellness blogger exploring the world one step at a time. Think fabulous food at undiscovered gems, unique destinations, skin care obsessions and so much more. This is my life, I hope you enjoy the ride!

About Me
Hi, I'm Carly!
A travel and wellness blogger exploring the world one step at a time. Think fabulous food at undiscovered gems, unique destinations, skin care obsessions and so much more. This is my life, I hope you enjoy the ride!
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