The Relais Henley (formerly The Red Lion Hotel) will be opening its doors to its first customers on 22nd July following a complete renovation and restoration of this iconic 16th century coaching inn nestled by Henley Bridge.

This stylish new waterside retreat has undergone sensitive renovation that preserves the hotel’s important history, woven into the fabric of life in Henley-on-Thames. There are forty individually designed guestrooms which have taken inspiration from Henley’s rowing tradition and the natural beauty of the Chiltern Hills.

The Relais Henley is the vision of international hotelier, Grace Leo who was drawn to its idyllic riverside setting and the bustling atmosphere of the market town. “Henley-on-Thames is a pedigree town which most people only know for Henley Royal Regatta and yet, there is always something going on; the town has a rare combination of things that attract people to live here as well as to visit.

When the opportunity to purchase The Red Lion arose, I could immediately see the opportunity to transform the heritage property into an elegant riverside retreat – one that would become a retreat from the city as well as become a stylish and convivial meeting place for the genteel residents of Henley.”

The Relais Henley says that no two rooms are the same, giving the overall feeling of staying in the familiar home of a cherished friend, elevated by international hotel service. The rooms offer a choice of views over the river, the courtyard, or over the town centre. Bold stripes, inspired by traditional rowing club blazers, run through the rich wool carpets and ‘armoires’ with botanical illustrations pay homage to the surrounding countryside. An eclectic selection of bespoke furnishings, designed by English craftsman, invite guests to feel completely at ease.  

The Clipper Restaurant is the new Henley outpost of Mosimann’s London, featuring signature dishes from the Belgravia restaurant and using a selection of the best locally grown produce. The restaurant will be open all day serving leisurely breakfasts, traditional afternoon tea, romantic, candle-lit dinners as well as alfresco dining in the courtyard. The Deli offers gourmet ‘grab and go’ sandwiches, pastries and coffees as well as picnics for excursions on the river. The Quarterdeck Bar, is in the oldest part of the hotel where original beams frame the views of Hart Street and vintage photographs of Henley Royal Regatta provide a nostalgic backdrop to the club-like atmosphere.

The Palm Court is a more dramatic setting, with high ceilings and planter fans, over-sized mirrors, and a mosaic of Persian and Chinese rugs, reminiscent of the romantic images of the silk route. Designed as a dedicated space for co-working and evening rendezvous with friends and colleagues; a new membership concept will be introduced from September.

The rich history of the Grade II listed landmark building is written into the ancient timber and stone, originally built to house the craftsmen who build the parish church of St Mary the Virgin. The hotel has played host to royalty and nobility throughout history, including King Charles 1st whose Royal Coat of Arms is preserved over the fireplace in the room he stayed in. The First Duke of Marlborough stayed whilst on his way to Blenheim Palace; Grace Kelly visited during the Henley Royal Regatta in 1947 and the poet, William Shenstone, carved a poem into a pane of glass with a diamond in 1750.

Courtyard Rooms start from £300 per room per night, including breakfast – available from mid-July. www.therelaishenley.com