When the warm days of summer roll in and it’s not quite time to jet off abroad, few things compare to a countryside getaway. While we often turn to cosy cottages and village inns in autumn and winter, summer in the British countryside offers its own kind of magic—lazy riverside walks, outdoor dining under blue skies, and tranquil moments that feel far removed from the rush of everyday life.
Tucked along the banks of the Thames in Berkshire, the village of Sonning is one such escape. Described as “the most fairy-like little nook on the whole river” by Jerome K. Jerome in Three Men in a Boat, Sonning remains a charming town, just an hour from London, nestled east of Reading and brushing the edge of Oxfordshire.
At the heart of Sonning’s charm is The Great House Sonning, Coppa Club, perched right at the foot of the 18th-century Sonning Bridge. Once an Elizabethan coaching inn, the property has now been transformed into a modern-day riverside retreat—effortlessly blending heritage with Coppa Club’s signature brand of laid-back luxury.
Mornings begin with a hearty skillet breakfast before drifting into a daytime medley of European-inspired comfort food. The selection spans stone-baked sourdough pizzas, fresh pasta dishes, and seasonal small plates ideal for sharing. Sundays are for roasts and The Great House does not disappoint, with a lovely selection of Porchetta, Roast Sirloin and Roast Lamb, served with all the trimmings.
The glass-fronted terrace overlooks the gentle flow of the river and sits just beyond the rolling lawn, dotted with the iconic Coppa Club igloos, which glow as twilight falls. Whether you’re lounging in the sun or dining beneath the stars, it’s a setting that invites you to linger.
The hotel itself has 49 rooms, spread across several historic buildings, each lovingly restored with a contemporary rustic elegance. Inside, you’ll find duck-egg blue-panelled walls, exposed brickwork, and whimsical artwork. Each character-filled room is also fitted with charming retro touches, such as vintage-style radios, colourful rotary dial phones, and Smeg mini-fridges stocked with cold milk and bottled water.
The bathrooms are generously sized, many with sleek walk-in rain showers and some featuring beautiful freestanding tubs, ideal for a long soak after riverside strolls.
There’s space to breathe here, both indoors and out. Wander the gardens, settle in with a book by the river, or simply sip something cold while the world slows down around you. The Great House Sonning welcomes everyone; whether it’s just for a bite or a relaxing stay, it’s perfect for all occasions and party sizes. Even four-legged guests are welcome, with dog-friendly rooms fully decked with bowls, blankets, and treats, so your pup can enjoy the riverside escape just as much as you do.
Whether you’re visiting in the summer sunshine or you wait to wrap up warm in winter, The Great House in Sonning is a destination that effortlessly suits every season. It’s close enough for a quick weekend escape without hassle, yet far enough to feel like you’ve truly gotten away.
coppaclub.co.uk/thegreathousesonning
Thames St, Sonning, Reading RG4 6UT
01189692277
