Sarah-Louise and Christopher make a “great escape” at home. Join them as they journey to Hampshire, UK for a stay at Heckfield Place.
“When I go out into the countryside and see the sun and the green and everything flowering, I say to myself, yes indeed, all that belongs to me.”
– Henri Rousseau
It’s easy to get caught up in a busy city life; racing across a sprawling metropolis, darting from meeting to meeting, a hive of activity, interaction and distractions. It’s not often we stop time and escape for a short but much needed break. The beautiful thing is you can travel far and wide, but sometimes nothing beats exploring your homeland: home really is where the heart is.
— Christopher at Heckfield Place
Heckfield Place
Heckfield Place Restaurant Marle
Just an hour away from South West London, join us as we unwind in a destination of staggering natural beauty: Heckfield Place in the Great British countryside.
Surrounded by 400 acres of grounds, the Georgian House underwent a 10-year renovation commissioned by owner Gerald Chan, in collaboration with interior designer Ben Thompson. The result is a truly exquisite building that sits harmoniously amongst the immaculate grounds.
As we made our way through the grand entrance hall, there was an immediate sense of warmth. We felt instantly at home. Once we had the chance to delve a little deeper into the property, we couldn't help but be stunned by the attention to detail, classic interior finishes and eclectic art that grace the walls — all from Chan’s private collection. Persian rugs line the spacious hallways and the original fireplaces, and charming floral designs by the inimitable Kitten Grayson, add a special touch.
The beautiful thing is you can travel far and wide, but sometimes nothing beats exploring your homeland: home really is where the heart is.
iwc.everything.shoppable.seewatch
— Christopher wears the IWC Ingenieur Chronograph (IW380801)
The back of the house commands far-reaching views across acres of woodland, gardens, lakes, and a biodynamic farm. Beautiful wild flowers sway in the gentle breeze, and the calm sound of the elegant water features provide a calming backdrop.
We drop our bags and head straight to the summer house for lunch. The head chef Skye Gyngell, of Petersham Nurseries fame, set the tone of Heckfield immediately, serving a delicious menu of high quality fresh local produce. The farm-to-table style with accompanying wines make for the perfect afternoon’s indulgence, followed by a cosy Negroni in the bar.
— Sarah-Louise wears the IWC Da Vinci Automatic 36
The Ingenieur Chronograph with white dial is a timepiece that settles into its natural surroundings effortlessly; a flawless combination of casual and sophisticate style, it is the perfect adornment to a relaxing country break. And the chic stainless steel Da Vinci Automatic 36 is an elegant addition to a weekend wardrobe, perfect for mornings exploring the grounds, to dinner and everything in between.
It’s time to set our “out of office” replies and unwind.
Want to know where we’ll head to next? Follow the @IWCjournal to find out. #AdventureswithIWC
Sarah-Louise Marks and Christopher Phelps run the popular travel blog “The Adventures of Us”. The London-based couple are sharing their breathtaking escapes on The Journal in a special travel series.
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