Overview
Monkey Island, with its intriguing history dating back 800 years, has been the haunt of monks, monarchs, aristocrats and writers alike. Set across seven acres and surrounded by elegant gardens, Monkey Island is accessed only by footbridge, boat or helicopter, offering a secluded country venue, yet is conveniently located less than an hour’s drive from Central London. The addition of the Private Residences offers those who want to enjoy this historic landmark and the delightful village of Bray even more opportunity to do so, in true comfort, style and privacy.
Location
Near the village of Bray, lies one mile downstream from Maidenhead and is within easy reach of Royal Windsor and London.
Ideal For
Romantic weekends away, groups of friends reuniting, intimate weddings and celebrations, UK Staycations.
Gallery
Style
Designed by award-winning Champalimaud Design, the décor juxtaposes timeless glamour and traditional features with a modern and relaxed countryside style. The island’s Pavilion is home to The River Room, bathed in natural light with stunning views of the River Thames and access to the lawns and private patio. The spacious Marlborough Ballroom boasts a botanical chandelier, art deco mirrored panelling and panoramic river views.
Rooms and Suites
The hotel has 41 luxury bedrooms and suites as well as six Private Residences. The grade one listed Wedgewood Suite at Monkey Island provides the most picturesque views of the estate and the River Thames accessed via mooring or footbridge only and comprising a separate seating area, dressing room and en-suite bathroom.
Food and Drink
The island is renowned for the Monkey Brasserie and Bar. Guests can choose to spend their time sipping cocktails beside a crackling fire, enjoying afternoon tea in the shade of the beautiful gardens or magical Shepherd’s Hideaway, or enjoying classic locally sourced British fare at the hotel restaurant. The surroundings are refined yet intimate and relaxed. All produce is freshly sourced from the gardens and the cuisine celebrates British classics with a modern twist.
Other Facilities
At Monkey Island Estate, guests can look forward to making the most of the fresh outdoors. A stroll around the estate’s seven acres offers beautiful country garden and river views. Guests can discover the herb garden, experimental teahouse, two beehives and even meet the estate’s resident hens, named after iconic female figures that have visited in years gone by.
The hotel is also home to the UK’s only floating spa – a unique spa experience based completely on the water. The bespoke crafted barge comprises three indulgent treatment rooms, an airy and bright wheelhouse reception, and an Elixir Bar, all moored on the banks of the island. The Floating Spa experience is peppered with touch points that celebrate the power of water, taking guests far beyond the traditional spa offering, and on holistic voyages through the history of the island and the River Thames.
Nearby Attractions
The surrounding countryside has a multitude of walks to enjoy, from picturesque Bray to the famous Dorney Lake and Bray Nature Reserve. For those staying at the Residences, idyllic boat trips and electric bikes are also available to hire, ideal for a sunny day out exploring – just pack a picnic, or perhaps try horse riding on offer just 15-minutes away.
Transport Links
Directions By Car: From London: Leave the M4 at junction 8/9, then at the roundabout take the 3rd exit onto the A308(M), signposted Maidenhead (Central).
From The West: Leave the M4 at junction 8/9, then at the roundabout take the 2nd exit onto the A308(M), signposted Maidenhead (Central).
At the next roundabout take the 3rd exit onto the A308, signposted Windsor. Take the left turning which is signposted to Bray Village, B3028 into the Upper Bray Road. As you approach Bray, take the first turning right into Old Mill Lane, opposite The Crown pub. Straight over the crossroads, follow Old Mill Lane, passing over the motorway. At the end of the lane, turn left at the pink house and enter the car park.
By rail: from London Paddington to Maidenhead Station. The train journey takes 40 minutes. Monkey Island Estate is a 10-minute taxi ride from Maidenhead station.
By Boat: Monkey Island Estate lies between Bray Rock and Boulter’s Lock. There are mooring points on the mainstream side along the gardens, as well as a landing stage for smaller boats on the backwater.
By Air: Helicopter landing directly on the island is available with prior notice. White Waltham is the nearest airfield for private planes.
Check Availability
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Contact Details
Website: www.monkeyislandestate.co.uk
Address: Bray-on-Thames, Bray, Maidenhead SL6 2EE, England
