The Outdoors Edit: Sunshine, Sizzle & Spa Days

Reel Fun: Outdoor Cinema Nights

Let’s kick things off with the classics. Summer isn’t really summer until you’ve watched a film outdoors, wrapped in a blanket, smugly eating snacks you definitely didn’t smuggle in.

This August (and even into early September), our Outdoor Cinema Nights are popping up at Royal Berkshire, Lainston House, Fanhams Hall, and Ansty Hall. With blockbusters and feel-good favourites showing in seriously scenic settings, these evenings are the perfect blend of fresh air and film magic.

Think fairy lights, starry skies, and the kind of movie moments that feel a little more magical under the open air. Whether you’re planning a romantic date night, a family outing, or just fancy a film under the stars with your favourite people, we’ve got your screen time sorted.

Choose your cinematic setting:
🎬 Royal Berkshire
🎬 Lainston House
🎬 Fanhams Hall
🎬 Ansty Hall

Feast Mode: Al Fresco Dining

We’re not saying food tastes better outdoors…but honestly, it kind of does. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail with a view, indulging in mouthwatering menus, or catching golden hour with something cold in hand, our alfresco dining options have summer written all over them.

• Botanica at South Lodge: Mediterranean-inspired dishes bursting with fresh, vibrant flavours, all served with breathtaking views over the rolling countryside. Whether you’re after a leisurely lunch or a dreamy dinner, Botanica offers the perfect blend of relaxed elegance and seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
• The Manor House Terrace & Horsebox: Kick back on the terrace with gorgeous views of the house, gardens, and the Bybrook River. Dig into seasonal, locally sourced dishes from Chef Rob Potter’s kitchen. Feeling thirsty? The quirky horsebox bar’s got you covered with British wines, spritzers, ciders, and non-alcoholic options — perfect for laid-back summer vibes and sundowner sips.
• The Castle Inn Terraces: Whether you’re after a delicious pub meal, a quick snack, or just a refreshing drink, the terraces at The Castle Inn are just the spot. Overlooking the charming Castle Combe village, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the quintessential Cotswold vibes with good company and even better views.
• Pennyhill Park’s Lily Pond Terrace: From 28th July to 7th September, enjoy a Silent Pool Gin takeover with branded glassware, cushions, and three signature cocktails. New menu items inspired by the distillery’s flavours complement the relaxed, botanical setting. And be sure to check out nearby Silent Pool Distillery tours for the perfect local experience.

Garden Goals: Pretty, Peaceful, and Perfectly Planted

Whether you’re hunting for garden inspo, planning a wholesome day out, or just curious how we keep our flowerbeds looking so fabulous, we’ve got two blooming lovely ways to enjoy our grounds this summer…

•  Fanhams Hall Summer Garden Tour & Afternoon Tea:
  Think colourful borders, sunny strolls, and a bit of a nosy around the grounds by Amber, one of our talented gardeners. Then settle in for a traditional afternoon tea true Fanhams style — pinky fingers optional. It's a proper summer day out with zero lawn-mowing required.
• Kitchen Garden Tour at Lainston House: If you’ve ever wanted to see where your supper really begins, this is your moment. Join our expert gardener Stef for a guided stroll through Lainston’s lovingly tended kitchen garden — all herbs, heritage veg, and edible inspiration. Best bit? All proceeds go to charity, so you can feel extra wholesome while eyeing up the tomatoes.

Cooking with Fire: Outdoor Cookery Classes

Swap the kitchen for the great outdoors with Lainston House’s Season Cookery School, where fire, flavour, and fresh air take centre stage. This summer, we’re heading outside to fire up the Big Green Egg barbecues, Gozney ovens, and crackling firepits for a line-up of hands-on classes that are as fun as they are flame-filled. From mastering low-and-slow barbecue techniques to perfecting wood-fired pizza or open-fire feasts, there’s something to tempt every level of cook. Check out our upcoming classes here. 

One to bookmark? Our Fish & Feasting weekend – an unforgettable field-to-fire experience. Start the day by casting your line at the nearby chalk stream, then bring your fresh catch back to Lainston to prep, grill, and gather for a laid-back alfresco feast. With expert guidance, sizzling techniques, and a hearty side of fresh air, it’s part fishing trip, part fire-cooking masterclass… all flavour.