Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Oxfordshire, Le Manoir was the network’s third event for April, and suffice it to say, we finished the month on quite a high. This iconic establishment is not just a hotel but an experience unlike any other, and it’s the perfect choice for those board-level/C-suite events.
Our site visit commenced with a full tour of the bedrooms, meeting and event spaces, and the entire grounds of this property—and what a property it is. Mid-tour, we were lucky enough to be joined by Mr Raymond Blanc himself, and we were blown away by his passion for Le Manoir. He took us through his upcoming plans for the property, and you could not help but be in awe of what he has achieved and how Le Manoir will continue to evolve. We fell in love with the grounds and Monsieur Blanc a little, too.
Bedrooms: A Sanctuary of Comfort
The first impression is often the lasting one; at Le Manoir, it’s unforgettable, and your delegates will feel the same. The hotel boasts 32 individually designed rooms and suites, each exuding its charm and character. From lavish furnishings to exquisite décor, every detail has been meticulously curated to ensure unparalleled comfort for guests. With lush gardens and tranquil surroundings, the bedrooms offer a serene retreat after a day of meetings or festivities.
On our tour, we heard how the design of each bedroom is overseen by Raymond Blanc himself, with many of the designs (and re-designs) coming from his travels across the world and inspired by his favourite childhood novel.
Meeting and Event Spaces: Where Elegance Meets Functionality
Whether you’re hosting a corporate conference, a gala dinner, or a lavish wedding, Le Manoir provides an array of versatile spaces to suit every occasion. Each venue exudes sophistication and style, from the opulent La Belle Époque room to the intimate Chef’s Table in the kitchen. The dedicated events team works tirelessly to tailor every detail to your specifications, ensuring a flawless and memorable experience for you and your guests. They took us on a tour. We loved the cooking school; it would make an unforgettable add-on to your event as a team-building activity (details below).
History of the Hotel
Steeped in history, Le Manoir has a rich heritage dating back to the 15th century. Originally a modest farmhouse, it was transformed into the culinary haven it is today by Raymond Blanc. Blanc’s unwavering commitment to Excellence and passion for French gastronomy have earned Le Manoir numerous accolades, including two Michelin stars, for over thirty years. We were lucky enough to hear how Raymond Blanc purchased the property from him directly, and it was quite the story (we won’t spoil it; you need to go and ask him yourself).
The Raymond Blanc Cooking School: A Culinary Masterclass
For those with a penchant for the culinary arts, Le Manoir offers the opportunity to learn from the master at the Raymond Blanc Cooking School. Immerse yourself in French cuisine as you embark on a culinary journey guided by Blanc’s expertise and creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary enthusiast, the hands-on classes and workshops will ignite your passion for cooking.
Le Manoir stands as a testament to the luxury, gastronomy, and unparalleled hospitality that our group experiences. Our site visit concluded with a long lunch; our pictures do not do it justice. It was amazing.
Whether planning a corporate event, a romantic getaway, or a culinary adventure, this iconic establishment promises an experience that transcends expectations. Our members loved it, and our May events will be challenging to top (we will try).
Please reach out for more information so we can connect you directly with our contact. If you want to join Eventprofslive, the network for corporate event managers, reach out to us here.
