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ranchandcoast.com 102 JULY 2025 RANCH & COAST MAGAZINE Over the years, I forgot about Cliveden (but not the Beatles, of course) until recently, when I was looking for interesting places to stay in the UK. I was reminded that in 1893 the house was purchased by William Waldorf Astor, the richest man in America, who gave it to his son and daughter-in-law as a wedding gift. Lady Nancy Astor entertained graciously and, before long, Cliveden became the epicenter of England's politics and power. Not coincidentally, Lady Astor was the first woman to take a seat in Parliament. e Astors donated the house to the National Trust in 1942, but Cliveden remained their home for many years. From 1969 to 1983, Cliveden was leased to Stanford University as an overseas campus. When I learned that it became a luxury hotel in 1985, I lost little time in making a reservation. Cliveden House is less than 45 minutes west of London and 20 minutes from Heathrow Airport. e hotel has 48 spacious rooms and suites, some with hot tubs, each named after a prominent guest or figure from Cliveden's past. ese include Winston Churchill, the Prince of Wales, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Charlie Chaplin, and George Bernard Shaw. Mrs. Astor was also acquainted with Joseph P. Kennedy, father of John F. Kennedy. Cliveden's authenticity is remarkable. Large portraits of historic figures in gilded frames dominate the décor and furnishings are all true to the period. Cliveden cuisine is as outstanding as the décor. Head Chef Christopher Hannon creates menus with a focus on locally sourced fresh produce. Meals, including three- course à la carte and seven-course tasting menus, are offered in the elegant dining room, which was originally the drawing room of the house. It enjoys a stunning south-facing view over the National Trust garden. Lunch and dinner are also served in the informal Astor Grill in the charming old stable block that detour destinations PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADAMS/HANSEN PHOTOS