Looking for a tranquil escape without the stress of travel chaos and flights? Monkey Island Estate is your "ridiculously easy getaway" right on London's doorstep. This luxurious five-star hotel, nestled on the River Thames near the quaint village of Bray, offers an idyllic retreat perfect for romantic breaks, milestone celebrations or even weddings. The history of Monkey Island dates back to 1197 when it was first settled by monks.
READ MORE: The barely known footpath that starts in Croydon and leads you all the way to the seaside It wasn't until the third Duke of Marlborough bought the island in 1723 that it became a renowned fishing retreat. Following the duke's death, the estate evolved into an inn, and in the 1950s, a footbridge finally linked the island to the mainland. The island boasts a rich tapestry of Royal and celebrity visitors, including Edward VII who savoured afternoon tea beneath the walnut trees, and famed singers Clara Butt and Dame Nellie Melba.
Literary greats like H.G. Wells and WW1 poet Siegfried Sassoon have also basked in the island's opulence.
Monkey Island has recently undergone a three-year makeover, reopening in 2019 with bedrooms featuring 'freshly panelled' walls in deep mahogany-coloured oak and ceiling details reminiscent of those in Buckingham Palace . The estate's glossy finish and regal atmosphere are complemented by a fascinating history that transports guests back to medieval times. The grub at Monkey Island Estate is as quintessentially B.
