Sunday in the Cotswolds

Sunday, dawn.  More packing, walked Bruno at length mainly because I could not find a trash bin within sight.  Helped Summie move into her house/dorm, and spent the rest of the morning at Welcome Week activities.  Best part of being an early bird is that no one else is quite awake and about, so I had the opportunity to admire art, shoot uninterrupted pictures.  The Montpellier Chapter is growing on me. I really, really like its art collection, and the sensitivity of decor and design of all shared spaces.

Painting titled Dog, Lamp and Bird Diptych, Manali Shroff

By late morning, Summie had fortified herself with a new group of friends.  So we decided to skip the afternoon field-trip,and retreated back instead for food and more vino blanc.

The Montpellier Chapter, Bayshill Road, Cheltenham

The Montpellier Chapter

We made it out to the Cotswolds today.  

My Best Travel Buddy Ever!

We've found dog-friendly accommodation on Bayshill Road.

The Montpellier Chapter turned out to be a terrific surprise for us.  Contrary to some feedback read on Tripadvisor, the check-in process was warm and efficient.  I liked the way the common areas have been furnished and aside from the dining room, Bruno is welcomed everywhere else.  So we enjoyed an early dinner on the terrace, off a beautifully decorated bar-library area.

Bruno waiting for dinner patiently.

                                 

View of the terrace/conservatory from the street, with the chandelier/sculpture designed by Isabel Hamm

Reception to the left, with (round) sculpture titled Font 1 by Alison Crowther   

 Best of all, there is an incredibly well-curated contemporary art collection in the hotel!  Art is displayed casually, encouraging thought and conversation.

Foreground:  The Offering(sculpture) by Irene Gunston  Background:  Soldier Set(paintings) by Emily Lockren

I'm not crazy about all the design elements within our present room, but I appreciate very much the privacy offered, Ren bath products, and the eloquence of space expressed.

Extremely quiet and private.  Bliss!  No one else on this floor.  

(I'm just not crazy about built-in furniture... that wall of mirrors to the left needs to go...)

But the patio is great, and leaving cushions out on seats a nice touch.

Bruno agrees :)  The Montpellier Chapter, Bayshill Road