A weekend by the water: the Crew guide

19 July 2021

From Henley-on-Thames to Salcombe, take a trip to our favourite spots.

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Ah how we love weekend breaks away. The excitement, the thrill of the packing, the abandonment of all jobs and chores and responsibilities. Nothing quite beats escaping daily life than a visit to our favourite place: by the water. From Henley-on-Thames, where we’re Official Clothing Partners of Henley Royal Regatta, to Salcombe, journey with us on the perfect itinerary for a weekend away – where the only thing you actually need to do is relax.

Henley-on-Thames

Stay

Situated just moments from the centre, and nestled right by the river, a 300-year-old brewery has been transformed into one of Hotel du Vin’s beautiful outposts. Combining industrial touches from the building’s heritage with monsoon showers, luxurious toiletries and Nespresso coffee machines, the rooms are a delight – each named after a wine. For the best view in the house, book Comtes de Champagne which has a balcony with a roll top bath (and outdoor heating) overlooking the Regatta finish line. Enjoy after-dinner drinks (try one of the 600 varieties from the wine cellar) in the courtyard lit with twinkly festoon lights or the Champagne bar.

For a real gastronomic experience, book a stay at Crockers. A grade II listed building on the town’s market square, this is a restaurant with rooms. And what a restaurant. Book a tasting menu at one of the two chef’s tables – 10 courses of exquisite dining, either modern British or pan-Asian, cooked by two of the country’s best chefs. Afterwards retire to the super king-sized beds, fluffy robes and Noble Isle toiletries in one of the divine seven guestrooms.

Eat

For lunch or excellent ethically-sourced coffee, head to Spoon. Find homemade tray bakes and vegan treats crafted by owner ‘Mama Spoon’ herself, fresh sourdough from local baker Tom and sublime brunch dishes.

Filled with character, gastropub The Little Angel sits ever so close to the rowing club. With a beautiful, light-filled dining room and a sun-kissed terrace, the pub serves classics with a modern twist. Think roasts with buttered savoy cabbage and bubbling cauliflower cheese, or ancient grain risotto with confit lemon and wild mushrooms.

Do

Walks along the towpath are a must. Head to Marsh Lock, Temple Island and Hambleden Lock. Hire a rowing boat or canoe and paddle down the river like the best. Alternatively, book a leisurely cruise through Hobbs of Henley that takes in the Royal Regatta course. Upstream from Henley Bridge, relax at Henley’s Mill & Marsh Meadows.

In town don’t miss the farmers’ market on the second Saturday and fifth Sunday of the month. You’ll discover locally produced foodie treats galore. Plus, the excellent River & Rowing Museum is worth a visit. Find the very first Boat Race vessel and the chance to join Ratty, Toad, Mole and Badger in The Wind in the Willows experience – the river in this much-loved book was inspired by the Thames at Henley.

Salcombe

Stay

The idyllic fishing town has a strong place in our hearts. The Crew story began in Salcombe. One of the best places to stay? Salcombe Harbour Hotel & Spa overlooking the yacht-dotted estuary. The decked terrace above the sparkling waters is stunning to say the least. The hotel has a real coastal-inspired charm – think muted tones and marine-striped details. All rooms have a balcony and complimentary gin and sherry. There’s a glorious spa and a heated pool with Breton-striped daybeds and gauzy white curtains.

Alternatively, perched on the South West Coastal Path is Gara Rock. Windswept coastal walks, breathtaking views… this is the kind of place where you can’t help but unwind. Glistening indoor and outdoor pools, a spa that uses vegan skincare products handmade in Totnes and a curved-glass restaurant with sunset views add even more reasons to visit. Don’t miss the ‘Garavan’ – a retro campervan parked on the cliff edge for sustenance after your walking adventures.

Eat

The Winking Prawn is a Salcombe favourite, nay institution. The beach café has been delighting punters for over 20 years, serving up seaside lunches and garden BBQs from the shabby chic interior and delightful beach-front tables.

Dine on the terrace at dickandwills. Known for their fish and chips made with the freshest local catches, also try their chargrilled West Country steak burger and creamy king prawn Rendang curry. When available, there’s also Salcombe lobster on the menu. Unmissable.

Make sure your evening includes drinks at Salcombe Gin’s waterside distillery bar. From trying experimental gins before they’re released to the signature Salcombe & tonic, sample exceptional cocktails crafted by the team’s mixologists – on the balcony or cosy sofas by the copper still.

Do

Hiking to Bolt Head should be on the itinerary for incredible panoramas. Try crabbing or hire a boat from Whitestrand Boat Hire and head to Mill Bay or Smalls Cove. They also run mackerel fishing aboard the skippered Woodpecker. Or take a trip on the South Sands Ferry to the beautiful sandy beach.

Make sure you visit Fore Street for all the cute shops. Watch ice cream being made at Salcombe Dairy, in the traditional way using milk from a local farm, and for views and quirky exhibits, visit Overbeck’s House and Gardens, nestled high over the town. But more importantly, take in the mellow soundtrack of lullabying waves and the vista of bobbing fisherman boats. Ten minutes in Salcombe and you’ll feel ten times better. It’s our favourite place.