A family escapade across Britain's landscapes demanded nothing more than cozy, chic knit sets that could seamlessly transition from sheep-lined pastures to London's glittering streets.
First Stop: The Newt, Somerset
Alice's Wonderland exists and can be found at The Newt in Somerset. The bucolic countryside to the west of the Cotswolds is dotted with sheep pastures, picturesque villages with rambling brooks running through them and stately manor homes. Just a few miles from the Castle Cary train station lies this magical property where we spent a few festive days.
The resort spans thousands of acres and they provide "buggies" - a more elegant word for golf carts - to explore the vast property dotted with apple orchards, sheep meadows, kitchen and flower gardens and even a magical grotto with a smoke spewing wyvern hidden in the crystal-ceiling cave.
Afternoons were spent at the exquisite spa, watching the kids swim in the indoor pool from our hot tub perch, roaming the gardens and retreating to the croquet room to listen to records and enjoy cream tea.
Day to Night Knits
Hauser & Wirth
A short drive from The Newt is the countryside campus of Hauser & Wirth where a marvelous Phyllida Barlow exhibition is taking place. The gallery is situated on a former farmstead with outdoor installations, a Roth Bar and a charming farm shop selling fresh vegetables, their house bottled negronis and beautiful souvenirs like boxed truffles and tote bags.
There is a charming walking path through community gardens and farms that connects the property to the stately village of Bruton. The gallery's presence has influenced the retail and restaurants in the community and there are some lovely shops and dining options. We had a delicious pizza and orange wine lunch At The Chapel, which as you probably guessed is housed in a 17th century chapel that has been updated in a contemporary style.
Most days I wore the same knit set from breakfast to dinner as we packed so much into our day. I layered a thin COS wool sweater under this Julissa Shell and paired with navy tights and Gianvito Rossi suede lace-up boots (on sale!). I was comfortable and warm for walks in the village yet felt pulled together for an elegant dinner back at the hotel.
After several days of stuffing ourselves with farm-to-table fare, we took the train to London to witness the first magical days of the holiday season unfold in one of the most festive cities in the world. Home House is a members only club that offers a few beautifully appointed rooms and access to their bars and dining options in their expansive Georgian Townhouse. It's conveniently located in the posh Marylebone neighborhood which is a perfect location for walking to the park and shopping.
It was bitter cold but uncommonly sunny and after mornings of museums and tourist traps, we cuddled up in cozy booths at old favorites like Chiltern Fire House and The Audley pub whose ceiling coincidentally was painted by Phyllida Barlow. The Ellery Cardigan was a constant companion as I could layer it over a dress or pair as a top with my favorite Alfie Pant.
