Classic Cheshire venue becomes a two-restaurant dining destination
IF you live in the Wilmslow area, you've probably been to The Stanneylands at some point in your life. It has long been a go-to choice for family meals and big occasions. And in 2017, its popularity looks set to grow further.
The Stanneylands has now reopened after a dramatic £1.7m re-invention by The Mere Collection, and is fast establishing itself as a vibrant dining destination centred around two new restaurants: The Grill Room and the Tap & Pantry.
This fresh incarnation brings the venue right up-to-date and is already attracting a new generation of customers.
Earlier this year, The Stanneylands closed for four months while the extensive refurbishment took place. The reopening marks a return to form with a luxurious new look that's contemporary in tone while retaining the country house feel.
As well as the new dining venues, the reinvented Stanneylands features three new events spaces, and 52 individually designed guest rooms. There are also three new terraces for al-fresco dining and drinking overlooking the landscaped woodland and lake.
The Grill Room serves classic British food in an elegant setting. The menu is the handiwork of head chef Bob Egginton who spent his early career at The Stanneylands before moving to The Lowry Hotel, The Malmaison, and The Principal (formerly The Palace Hotel). Go there for dishes including Western Isles scallops with black pudding and crispy bacon crumble (£9.50) and Calves liver with smoked bacon and crispy onions (£15.95).
The Tap & Pantry is the destination for much more casual eating and drinking. Expect British comfort food with a focus on local ingredients. Dishes include Barbecued beetroot with Ribblesdale goats cheese (£6.50) and Cheshire lamb hotpot with pickled red cabbage (£15.95).
You're welcome to go just for drinks. The Tap & Pantry serves up mouthwatering cocktails and a selection of craft ales, including their own Outfoxed Craft Ale. G&T fans will appreciate their specialist Franklin & Sons gin trolley, which bar staff wheel over to your table.
A 'Sunday Bottomless Blunch' (a cross between brunch and Sunday lunch) is also available in the Tap & Pantry and lets you enjoy as many Bloody Marys, glasses of prosecco, red, white or rosé wine for £15 per person. Their Afternoon Tea includes indulgent options such as a Pimm's Cream Tea, and extras such as Bolney Estate bubbly.
While the old Stanneylands was becoming a little dated, this fresh incarnation brings the venue right up-to-date and is already attracting a new generation of customers. If you want a country hideaway offering good food and well-crafted drinks, put it on your list of places to go.
