Review of The Petersham, Richmond.

As a child my favourite books were about princesses, and I always dreamed about becoming one.

Well after one nights stay at The Petersham Hotel, in Richmond, I feel one step closer to that dream.

Pulling up to the majestic hotel with my partner Joe believed I had stepped straight into the pages of my childhood books, as the grand building towered above us.

Almost straight away we were met by a porter, who insisted on carrying the majority of our bags inside.

Here the grandeur of the exterior was almost forgotten as we took in the plush carpets, chandelier and winding staircase.

Our room was just as grand, with a large marbled bathroom, large bed and private balcony overlooking the River Thames. And being greeted by a bottle of champagne made the experience even more magical.

 The restaurant at The Petersham is advertised as being one of the finest in London, and that is certainly no exaggeration. With views of the River Thames you can enjoy fine food in stunning surroundings. Headed up by acclaimed chef Alex Bentley, the menu features a variety of British classics, including duck, salmon and pheasant. Mine and Joe’s seared duck was delicious, as were the starters and deserts either side. All were cooked to perfection, with the individual flavours highlighted.

For drinks after dinner the hotel lounge provides the perfect setting. With plush armchairs and sofas I was able to relax with a cocktail from the extensive list. Joe chose a gin and tonic, which he highly enjoyed.

A mark of a good hotel is its staff, and by the service we received I would say The Petersham deserves five stars. Our glasses were barely empty when we were asked if we would like another, and the waiter service in the restaurant was impeccable.

Our stay in Richmond included visits to Kew Gardens and Hampton Court Palace. Both are well worth a visit. Kew Gardens showcases the beauty nature, with plants of all size and variety. Children can enjoy the freedom of the large grounds, while adults learn more about the wildlife.

Hampton Court Palace

Highlights include a visit to King Henry VIII kitchen and a tour around the magestic palace gardens. For those seeking an adventure the maze is well worth a visit. With its tall hedges and winding paths it is easy to lose yourself there. However the sense of achievement when you reach the centre is immense.

I was thoroughly impressed with my stay in Richmond, and enjoyed being treated like a princess for a day.

An overnight stay for two at The Petersham costs £79 per person, and includes a three course dinner, with a full English breakfast the next day.

For more information visit www.petershamhotel.co.uk or call 020 8940 7471.

Tickets to Kew Gardens £13.50 for adults, £13.50 concessions, and free for children.

To find out more visit www.kew.org, or call 020 8332 5655.

Hampton Court Palace tickets are £15.40 for adults, £12.65 concessions, £7.70 for children under 16,  and free for children under five.

For more information visit www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace or call 0844 482 7777