The Polo Club Hotel, Southam – A Luxurious Country Escape with Roman Grandeur

Introduction

From the very first moment I pulled up to the Polo Club Hotel in Southam, I knew this stay was going to be something special. Sweeping through the imposing iron gates and past vast, open fields where the polo pitch stretched out like a scene from a glossy magazine, the sense of grandeur was undeniable. This wasn’t just another countryside hotel, it was an experience in itself, blending luxury, heritage, and eccentric charm. And, of course, Ada, my beloved dog, was welcomed along for the adventure, which always elevates a trip for me.

Arrival & Check-in Experience

The approach to the hotel set the tone: majestic, elegant, and distinctly different. Despite the vast space, the car park was surprisingly quiet when we arrived, giving us the feeling that we’d stumbled upon a hidden gem. Inside, the atmosphere was just as impressive, with opulent polo art adorning the walls, Roman statues strategically placed to create drama, and a grand sense of luxury throughout.

Check-in was seamless, with warm smiles at reception. Ada was noted straight away, and I happily paid the £25 pet supplement knowing she’d be part of the experience. The staff informed us of the pet-friendly touches awaiting us, and I immediately felt reassured that this wasn’t one of those hotels where “dog-friendly” is just a line on the website, they truly meant it.

Rooms & Comfort

When we upgraded our room (an additional £60 on top of the original £102 rate), I wasn’t prepared for just how stunning it would be. As the door opened, my mouth quite literally dropped. The space felt palatial, with opulent gold detailing throughout, a vast queen-sized bed dressed in crisp, immaculate linens, and a large patio garden complete with elegant chairs.

The décor was strikingly regal, palace-inspired design without veering into kitsch. The garden patio became one of the highlights of our stay, the perfect spot to pop open the bottle of champagne we’d brought with us. Inside, thoughtful touches elevated the luxury experience: a huge flat-screen TV (which we never switched on, preferring the garden views), fluffy robes and slippers, and a well-stocked minibar including half a bottle of wine. To our delight, there were even proper champagne flutes ready and waiting.

Bathroom

The bathroom continued the theme of indulgence. Double Jack-and-Jill sinks added a practical touch, while the shower gave the choice of both rainfall and handheld options, perfect for every mood. The space was polished, marble-heavy, and complete with soft bathrobes. Everything felt fresh, clean, and distinctly high-end, creating a spa-like atmosphere even before the actual spa (set to open in 2026) is built.

Dining & Drinks

Although the Polo Club Hotel doesn’t currently offer an in-house restaurant for evening dining, the reception team recommended the nearby Millstone Inn, a cosy pub within walking distance that also welcomes dogs. We enjoyed a couple of glasses of wine there before returning to make the most of our private garden.

In true “staycation indulgence” style, we ordered Thai takeaway for dinner. Reception happily provided plates and cutlery, which might sound simple, but the way it was handled, no fuss, just gracious hospitality, really mattered. Later, we ventured upstairs to the hotel’s pièce de résistance: Caesar’s Lounge.

This bar was unlike anything I’ve ever seen in the English countryside. Imagine stepping into Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, or a Roman emperor’s private palace: four towering statues in the centre, a sky-painted ceiling, and an atmosphere dripping in grandeur. We ordered Old Fashioneds (my favourite), which were theatrically smoked at the table, a wonderful detail that turned cocktails into a full experience. The drinks were spot-on, and the whole setting felt utterly unique.

Breakfast the next morning was a complete contrast, light, bright, and homely. The menu was à la carte and complimentary, offering everything from Full English classics to avocado on toast and Eggs Benedict. I chose my favourites, perfectly cooked and beautifully presented, and enjoyed chatting with Shirley, our lovely server. She shared stories about her time at the hotel and added that personal warmth that lingers in your memory long after you leave.

Spa, Wellness & Gym

The hotel’s current wellness offering centres around its fully equipped gym. Unlike many countryside properties where “gym” means a treadmill and a couple of dumbbells, here it was genuinely comprehensive: cardio machines, weights, and mats, everything I needed for a proper workout.

Excitingly, the team also shared plans for a dedicated spa, scheduled to open in 2026. Knowing the hotel’s flair for grandeur, I can only imagine how fabulous it will be. It’s reason enough for me to book a return visit.

Hotel Facilities

From the polo pitch to Caesar’s Lounge, the Polo Club Hotel thrives on its unique facilities. The grounds are vast and scenic, perfect for long walks, especially with a four-legged companion. While the hotel doesn’t offer formal gardens or lounges in the traditional sense, the spaces it does have are bold, stylish, and memorable.

Parking was ample and easy, and accessibility was well-considered. For those arriving with furry friends, the facilities extend beyond “just being allowed,” as we discovered.

Pet-Friendliness

For me, pet-friendliness is a major tick-box, and the Polo Club Hotel didn’t just tick it, they exceeded expectations. Ada was greeted like a guest in her own right. Her stay included a branded hotel dog bed (a detail that still makes me smile) and even a complimentary meal, which felt above and beyond. To me, that signals a property that truly embraces pets rather than tolerating them.

One note worth mentioning for pet owners: if you have a small dog and book a downstairs room, be aware that they may be able to slip through the narrow garden wall. Bring a long lead, or request an upstairs room to avoid any mishaps.

The polo grounds themselves also make for wonderful morning strolls with your dog. Ada loved exploring, and I felt relaxed knowing she was welcome at every turn.

Local Area & Surroundings

Southam is a charming part of Warwickshire, and the Polo Club Hotel makes the most of its countryside setting. Between the polo pitch walks, the nearby Millstone Inn pub, and a variety of local takeaways, there’s enough to keep you entertained for a short break without ever needing to venture far. I know the area well as my dad used to live in Warwick, and the surrounding towns of Warwick, Leamington Spa and Stratford-upon-Avon have so much to give. From historic castles and theatres to boutique shops and buzzing cafes, the wider area offers plenty for longer stays.

Service & Hospitality

Service can make or break a stay, and here, it made it. From the receptionist who ensured we had everything we needed for our takeaway, to Shirley at breakfast who shared her love of working at the hotel, every interaction felt genuine. There was a relaxed efficiency, nothing forced, nothing robotic. It felt personal, and that’s rare.

Perks & Unique Touches

What really sets the Polo Club Hotel apart is its sense of theatre. The statues, the art, Caesar’s Lounge, it’s a property that doesn’t shy away from drama, and I adore that. The combination of country luxury with Roman grandeur is unlike anything I’ve seen in the UK.

The small touches also mattered: champagne glasses in the minibar, branded dog amenities, and blackout blinds instead of curtains (a detail I especially appreciated for a restful sleep).

Who It’s Perfect For

• Couples seeking a romantic countryside escape with a twist of glamour.
• Dog owners looking for a property where their pets are genuinely welcome.
• Wellness travellers who like to keep active on holiday.
• Groups of friends who’ll adore the theatrical Caesar’s Lounge for cocktails.
• Business travellers seeking a stylish alternative to generic chain hotels.

Final Verdict

The Polo Club Hotel in Southam is far from your typical countryside stay. It’s bold, luxurious, and just the right amount of eccentric. From the palatial rooms and personalised pet touches, to the outrageous yet fabulous Caesar’s Lounge, it delivers an experience that feels indulgent yet approachable.

For just £187 (including our upgrade and Ada’s supplement), we enjoyed a stay that felt like something far grander. Excellent value, memorable service, and a property that dares to be different, we’ll absolutely be back, especially once the spa opens in 2026. Until then, I’ll be dreaming of those smoked Old Fashioneds under the painted Roman sky.