History, Luxury, and Natural Beauty

Interview with Mr. Cedric Horgnies, the Hotel Manager of Monkey Island Estate,
who shares the quintessential English experience to us

Located approximately an hour’s drive from central London, nestled along the River Thames in Bray, Monkey Island Estate is the epitome of luxury and tranquility. At first glance, it may not seem like an obvious destination for Chinese tourists, but the estate’s rich history, exquisite architecture, and serene environment align well with the understated and nature-appreciating aesthetics of discerning Chinese travelers, making it a dream destination for those seeking a unique and luxurious British vacation experience.

The story of Monkey Island dates back centuries, originating with the monks of the nearby Merton Abbey who settled in the area in 1197. The name “Monks Eyot” reflects its connection to the monks and the fishponds they constructed. Over the years, the island has transformed into a popular riverside retreat, hosting distinguished guests such as King Edward VII, World War I poet Siegfried Sassoon, the author H.G. Wells, and Rebecca West.

The architectural beauty of Monkey Island Estate captivates Chinese tourists who appreciate exquisite craftsmanship and design. The estate is under the ownership of the powerful YTL Hotels Group from Malaysia, known for its meticulous restoration and preservation of these protected buildings in collaboration with the award-winning Champalimaud Design, seamlessly integrating them into the picturesque village of Bray-on-Thames.

Guests at Monkey Island Estate can engage in activities that showcase English countryside living. From choosing eggs from the chicken coop for breakfast to enjoying afternoon tea in the authentic Victorian Tea House or savoring a blend of local British ingredients with international flavors paired with carefully selected wines, the estate offers a refined experience harmonizing with nature.

The Grade I-listed Wedgewood Suite provides stunning views of the estate and the Thames. Comprising a master bedroom, separate sitting area, dressing room, and en-suite bathroom, this suite is beloved by guests. Additionally, there are six exquisite private residences, particularly suitable for families and groups of friends traveling together.

Among them, the Long White House, a magnificent 10th-century building, features four large bedrooms, a breathtaking fully equipped kitchen, a spacious living room, and an indoor swimming pool. This residence has preserved its original historical features through the nearby beautiful Iven Gate while providing a homely warmth and comfort.

Lavender Cottage, situated in the central area of Bray, is an early 18th-century white double-fronted residence that accommodates six people. With a spacious and charming garden, it is perfect for guests who enjoy outdoor dining and barbecues.

Sundial Cottage, a three-bedroom residence, was once the private home of Sylvia Anderson, a co-creator of the Thunderbirds TV program. It features a comfortable living room and a distinctive private cinema with Bang & Olufsen sound systems and a film library.

Dating back to 1700, Brav House exudes the charm of bygone eras. With six cozy bedrooms, it uniquely blends the allure of the 1970s with the modern sensibilities of the 21st century.

Manor House, a grand 10th-century building, offers a luxurious vacation experience with Bang & Olufsen sound systems and meticulously chosen decor that exudes historical charm.

The smallest residence, Dormer Cottage, with 500 years of history, showcases wooden beams and an open fireplace with a wood-burning stove, making it an ideal retreat for the autumn and winter seasons, filled with intimacy and coziness.

“Monkey Island Estate promises a quintessential English experience, blending history, luxury, and natural beauty to create an unforgettable holiday destination for Chinese travelers,” said Mr. Cedric Horgnies, the Hotel Manager of Monkey Island Estate. SpaChina interviewed him.

Monkey Island Estate has a rich historical background. Please tell our readers some stories about this unique resort.

Monkey Island boasts a captivating and mysterious history. The origin of its unique name is a subject of debate, with some historians linking it to the Church’s early ownership. In 1197, monks from Merton Priory settled nearby, constructing fishponds close to the island known as Monks Eyot – a possible origin for its modern name.

Fast forward to 1723, and the 3rd Duke of Marlborough purchased the land to establish an unparalleled angling retreat. He enlisted Palladian architect Robert Morris to design two structures: a two-story Fishing Temple and an octagonal Fishing Pavilion for sleeping and entertaining. The ground-floor Monkey Room in the Pavilion, adorned with 17th-century monkey-themed frescoes by French specialist Andie de Clermont, and The Temple’s interior, decorated with shells, mermaids, dolphins, and Neptune in high-relief plasterwork by Thomas Roberts of Oxford, showcase the architectural and artistic grandeur.

The Duke cherished his fishing haven for two decades until his passing in 1758, solidifying the island’s distinctive name. Unsubstantiated rumors later fueled the myth that the mentally unstable George III was banished here with a pet monkey.

In the 1980s, after receiving multiple dining awards, the island changed ownership, and the Grade 1 listed properties faced a decline. Fortunately, with YTL Hotels’ expert renovation, the island has been reborn as a luxurious hotel. If the Georgian Duke were alive today, he would undoubtedly be delighted.

The Grade 1 listed Wedgewood Suite offers a timeless experience with stunning views of the estate and the River Thames. It includes a master bedroom with a separate seating area, dressing room, and en-suite bathroom.

The Monkey Room features awe-inspiring 17th-century frescoes inspired by monkeys, adding a historical touch to the Grade I listed room. Guests can relax and immerse themselves in the surrounding decades of history.

The Whisky Snug, a hidden gem accessible via a secret staircase above The Monkey Room, provides an intimate space for private events, offering a splendid conclusion to a grand evening on Monkey Island Estate.

Could you share some unique cultural activities or events that Monkey Island Estate recommends or offers to guests to provide a sense of the local heritage?

Monkey Island has a rich and mysterious history. Its unique name has been a subject of controversy, with some historians linking it to early church ownership. In 1197, monks affiliated with the Merton Monastery settled in the vicinity, constructing fishponds near the islands, naming it Monks Eyot. Over time, the name Monks is said to have transformed into Monkey, giving rise to the current name of Monkey Island, adding an interesting twist to its origin.

In 1723, the third Duke of Marlborough purchased the land to establish a unique fishing retreat. He commissioned the renowned Palladian architect Robert Morris to design two structures: a two-story fishing temple and an octagonal fishing pavilion for relaxation and entertainment. The Monkey Room on the lower level of the temple was completed in 1738, featuring French-style murals with monkeys painted by the French artist Andie de Clermont. The interior of the temple, located 100 yards away, was crafted by Oxford’s Thomas Roberts, adorned with high-relief plaster decorations of shells, mermaids, dolphins, and Neptune.

During the 1980s, the island changed hands, receiving numerous culinary awards but seeing the listed heritage buildings slowly decline. Fortunately, under the ownership of the YTL Hotel Group, the island has been reborn as a luxurious resort. If the founding Duke of Marlborough were alive today, he would surely be delighted.

How many nights do you recommend guests stay? How can they plan unique itineraries and experiences in the surrounding area?

We recommend guests stay for at least two nights. This way, they not only have the opportunity to stroll along the Thames or fish at the Monkey Island estate but also explore and immerse themselves in the Bray area, experiencing local cuisine and the historical and cultural atmosphere.

Due to our proximity to Heathrow Airport, we attract a diverse international clientele, especially families who appreciate our unique private residences. Some of these villas offer outdoor pools in the summer and indoor pools in winter, with exclusive gardens or barbecue areas. Guests can enjoy tranquility and relaxation in the gardens or savor British afternoon tea in the Monkey Room. Our excellent open kitchen serves British pub-style cuisine using high-quality local ingredients, elevating the style of comfort food. The menu undergoes seasonal changes every three months. Additionally, for food enthusiasts, a must-try is the renowned three-Michelin-starred restaurants in the Bray area, such as The Fat Duck or Waterside Inn.

One of the best ways to experience the rich cultural heritage of the area is to visit Windsor Castle, catching a glimpse of royal splendor, or take a stroll through the vineyards in the nearby Marlow region. If you prefer more traditional English activities, consider trying pigeon shooting at E.J. Churchill.

In the summer, one of the must-experience activities in the UK is attending the Royal Ascot horse racing event or the Henley Regatta. Visitors from around the world gather to enjoy these unique historical sporting events, and Monkey Island Hotel is just a stone’s throw away from these venues.

Please tell us more about your well-known Monkey Room bar.

Our Monkey Room bar is famous for its well-preserved 17th-century murals inspired by monkeys, creating a charming and historically intriguing atmosphere. The Whisky Snug is a hidden space accessed through a secret staircase located above the Monkey Room. The restoration of these historic structures presented challenges, but the results are truly satisfying.

The Monkey Room has been at the forefront of the non-alcoholic cocktail trend, offering excellent cocktails crafted by our talented team. This includes premium non-alcoholic gins like Seedlip, as well as selected local British sparkling wines from Marlow and Thames Henley. We also provide personalized cocktail masterclasses, which guests thoroughly enjoy and immerse themselves in.

Our own beehives produce delicious honey, known as Monkey Island Estate Honey, not only used in our kitchen but also incorporated by our mixologist team in crafting cocktails. During the spring and summer seasons, our kitchen team utilizes our herb garden and smokehouse to produce our own Monkey Island Smoked Salmon, adding a delightful touch to our offerings.

How does Monkey Island Estate provide spa services and health options within the guests’ stay experience?

The Floating Spa is my strong recommendation. Guests can indulge in services at The Floating Spa, a specially designed barge located along the Thames. It’s the first water-based spa center to use all-natural products from premium brands like Sun Haeckes and Moss. Remember to make a reservation in advance, as the rooms are limited. It’s absolutely worth experiencing the seamless flow of body treatments and trying the immersive floating experience.

Our signature massage is the ISLES MOSS Floating Massage. Warm lighting and natural scents create a relaxing ambiance, and the unique mattress and body positioning allow therapists to massage muscles and tendons accurately from various optimal angles. The treatment is fluid, graceful, skillful, and rhythmically increases in intensity. The products incorporate natural essential oils like arnica, ginger, and rosemary, promoting deep relaxation and relieving pain, making it ideal for those with deep muscle tension and stubborn tightness. The entire spa experience feels like floating on a warm cloud, leaving a lasting impression.

Our Floating Spa uses two highly natural, unique, and effective product lines.

ISUN focuses on vitality and anti-aging skincare, using wild-harvested, organic, and natural ingredients. Crafted with green hand production, the products utilize the Pure Energy technique with cold processing and active plant formulas to heal and harmonize the mind and body, bringing a deep anti-aging radiance to the skin.

Another product line that I personally love is MOSS of the ISLES. We believe in the close connection between our bodies and the land and tides. MOSS of the ISLES aims to harness the most potent, nourishing elements of nature and create powerful formulas that transform, heal, and rejuvenate the skin. Using unique locally sourced ingredients like moss, peat, rosemary, yarrow, poppy seeds, and marigold, the brand strives to provide optimal results with the simplest ingredient formulas.

In addition to the spa, outdoor activities and walking are excellent health options. The air here is pure, with high levels of negative ions. Guests can stroll to nearby Bray Lake or run along the river, exploring the surrounding environment, including Windsor Castle.

We also collaborate with an outdoor adventure team, offering Dragonfly boat trips. Advance reservations are required, and trips take place every Friday and Saturday, exploring the river and savoring champagne, with a maximum of 12 people. In good weather during the spring and summer, more fun outdoor activities and experiences are also available.

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important for travelers. How does Monkey Island Estate address this aspect?

Yes, sustainability is a crucial focus for us. We have installed a heat pump system that utilizes river water to heat or cool our bedrooms, eliminating the need for gas on the island.

Our menu is carefully designed to simplify while ensuring an ample selection, keeping ingredients fresh and minimizing waste to reduce our carbon footprint. We use locally produced honey from the island, Windsor and Eton beer exclusively for our fish and chips, herbs from our garden in the spring and summer seasons, and source ingredients locally in the UK. Guests highly appreciate and support these initiatives.

Additionally, ongoing sustainability efforts include the installation of six electric vehicle charging points this year for guests driving electric cars.

How do you address the constantly changing needs and expectations of guests?

Ultimately, guests visit us to experience the rich historical heritage of Monkey Island Estate. Few hotels can proudly claim to be located on an island with an 800-year history, and the hotel itself has a history of 300 years.

The unique location of Monkey Island Estate along the Thames is more than just a hotel. As an estate, it offers more space and natural landscapes, serving as a heavenly getaway close to Heathrow and London. Our concierge team can arrange personalized itineraries, such as shopping at Bicester Village, ensuring seating at the Royal Ascot, arranging an English afternoon tea on the Dragonfly boat, or a helicopter tour of London from Marlow, and experiencing a carriage ride at Ascot. Everything is tailored to create lasting memories for our guests.

We collaborate with Windsor Castle for guided tours, Harrow & Hope for vineyard tours, Windsor and Eton Brewery for beer tasting events, and E.J. Churchill for professional clay pigeon shooting experiences. Additionally, we can provide tickets to the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, which are highly sought after.

Customizing unique experiences for individuals or groups is a service our team excels at. This ensures that our guests, whether couples enjoying a nature-filled weekend, families gathering for a vacation, or corporate groups choosing us for midweek team-building and conferences, leave satisfied.