Hotel review: a culinary gem, The Relais Henley

PA Life’s Events Manager Clair Seeley had the pleasure of visiting The Relais Henley in Henley-on-Thames. This stunning 4* hotel and culinary retreat is surrounded by Oxfordshire countryside, yet just an hour from central London…

What was our experience like?

On arrival we were pleasantly greeted by their staff who checked us in and personally took our luggage to our room.

Our bedroom was spacious and oozed sophistication, keeping to its nostalgic grade II listed building. We loved the historic elements of the hotel reflected in the architecture. The Relais Henley dates back to the 16th century with a rich heritage which can still be seen in the beautifully restored features that tell stories of bygone eras. The room was well equipped with a ‘fit for a King’ kind of beam poster bed, carpeted floors, a personal desk and even a fireplace. While the hotel does feature a handful of rooms with four poster beds that provide a more historical feel, many also boast river views with a cosy ambience and convivial atmosphere that has been cleverly created by blending a rowing club spirit with botanicals from the English countryside.

The marble bathroom was luxurious, providing heated floors and adjustable air conditioning. Each room has thoughtful touches, really making the experience personal. For example, high-quality robes & slippers, a personal greeting card. All these touches at The Relais Henley go the extra mile to make you feel special.

For the interior of the Quaterdeck Bar, think rich Moroccan tones, cosy nooks and effortlessly elegant spaces. Whether you’re hosting a private dinner with flair, or simply craving a quiet corner for a glass of something wonderful, there’s a space for it here and it’s likely lit by soft lanterns.

Naturally, no escape overlooking the Thames would be complete without a bar worth lingering in. Furnished with polished wood, plush leather, and a wine list that calls you. Fine wines, rare spirits, and cocktails that go down a treat.

To top it off, there’s also a charming café that looks like it was plucked from the pages of a botanical fairy tale. The part tea garden, part deli serves homemade cakes that should come with a warning as they are so good!  They also host barista classes and food workshops, which are worth trying out.

Restaurant Dominic Chapman

Then, there’s the showstopper. The Restaurant Dominic Chapman, named after the Michelin-starred chef himself. We were delighted to see the chef doing a casual lap of the dining room, engaging with his guests. Something so intimate, and a fabulous touch.

The restaurant makes a bold first impression. A literal boat hangs from the ceiling, like a nautical chandelier. A quirky centrepiece that entices you to the restaurant.

We started with a warm, earthy Roasted Wild Garlic and Feta Soup, served with homemade bread still steaming from the oven. The Cornish squid came golden and tender with a paprika-spiked garlic mayo.

Mains were a love letter to local sourcing. The Hereford Ribeye arrived perfectly seared, reclining atop a bed of creamy spinach like it knew it belonged there, paired with a punchy peppercorn sauce. The Monkfish was delicate and satisfying, paired with bok choy. All oozing together with lemongrass and ginger sauce that sang with heat, and crispy glass noodles. The delicious dish went perfectly with a sparkling Aperol Spritz and fresh Mojito.

Events space at The Relais Henley

The Relais Henley offers versatile meeting rooms that can be customised to suit your requirements. Whether you prefer a boardroom or cabaret arrangement for a maximum of 40 people, or a theatre-style setup for up to 64 participants, their meeting and dining spaces provide flexibility for whatever you need. All very well equipped with modern amenities and window views of the River Thames.

The Relais Henley banqueting options offers great intimate spaces for private dinners as well as meetings and events. Their recent refurbishment of the new dome offers additional outdoor space for private drinks and canape evenings. This is a standout in the summer season. Should a group like to enjoy more activities in the area alongside their corporate meetings, there are boating opportunities along the Thames. You can stop at the Fairmile vineyard, 7-minutes away, for a special wine tasting. You can also book a Bremont Watches tour or stop to enjoy Henley gin! So, lots of lovely things to do to take your team out of the office for a couple of days work & play.

What to do in Henley

Perfectly positioned in the heart of Henley-on-Thames, The Relais Henley offers a unique blend of corporate sophistication and relaxed riverside charm. Whether you’re planning a team away day, client entertainment, or a multi-day retreat, the hotel provides flexible event spaces for private dinners, strategy sessions, and meetings. Groups can make the most of the location with private boat hire directly from the hotel’s mooring, wine tastings at nearby vineyards, or exclusive tours and tastings at the Henley Distillery – home of Henley Gin. For something more active, why not take to the water for a rowing experience in the iconic home of British rowing? With elegant accommodation, inspiring surroundings, and seamless service, The Relais Henley is the ideal destination for productive, and memorable, business escapes.

The new Henley Hideaway

The Henley Hideaway is the latest addition to The Relais Henley – a refined riverside, hidden-gem of a space designed to elevate private and corporate events alike. This elegant, all-weather courtyard space is ideal for hosting networking drinks, breakout sessions, breakfasts, or evening receptions with canapés or sit down dining. Accommodating up to 60 guests at round tables or 80 at trestle tables, it offers year-round comfort with integrated lighting and heating – ensuring a welcoming atmosphere whatever the season. With views over the Thames and a contemporary, flexible layout, The Henley Hideaway provides a standout setting to connect, collaborate, and unwind in style.

If you are looking to stay at this gorgeous culinary retreat in the Henley countryside, The Relais Henley is the perfect spot for you. We would love to share with you our promotional code ‘PALIFE’, when enquiring, for money off your upcoming booking.

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