Chateau La Briance

03/09/2024

We mentioned sometime ago that we intended to enjoy this beautiful country we now call home. So, in just over a week - we welcome the last guests in the Chateau’s current capacity as a Chambre D’hote. The business has simply outgrown us, becoming far busier than we could ever imagine, (they say be careful what you wish for 😃). So the Chateau is officially for sale! What an absolute privilege it has been living in this incredible building; Château La Briance, in the pretty village of Saint Hilaire Bonneval whose Mayor Christian Latouille, along with his beautiful wife Annie, have become the best of friends to us since our arrival here in France.
We have been so lucky, meeting the most incredible people, those from the world of sport, entertainment, captains of industry and banking along with politicians - even an ex-Prime Minister of the U.K. 🇬🇧
But, those of you we call friends will remain our favourite guests of course 💞
Whoever takes this incredible Chateau and its history forward will wonder in its beauty. Like her one metre exterior walls, she is strong yet simply breathtaking. Our time spent living here will be unforgettable, and we are always aware of how lucky we are.
…So what next🤔?
Well retirement is a word that somewhat scares me, but those people close to us will know that when one door closes…😉
For now, we intend to travel - both near and far, and Helen is looking forward to later mornings, riding her bike and going back to Yoga! 🧘🏼‍♀️
For me, Speedway still plays a daily role, and I know of lots of vineyards in the area that we are moving to, in the Dordogne, that desperately need visiting!🍷
And finally, Chris and Emma Whiteley - our silent partners in this venture. Words cannot describe how much we thank you for your trust in this journey.
Those trips out 6 years ago to visit the Chateau, not really having a clue what plans I had in mind for her - but never once being anything but supportive. You are truly wonderful people 💞.
So for now, it’s “Au Revoir“ rather than goodbye.
We thank you all for the incredible support, making this business profitable almost from the first day. What a journey.
Thank You 🙏
Matt and Helen x

20/06/2024

It’s now an incredible 252 days since we last posted an update - I think it’s fair to say we don’t saturate our social media presence 😂.
Much has happened, with over 1000 rooms being booked in 2023 and the Chateau continues to prosper.
We made the decision that 2024 would be our last year of running the business side of the Chateau, and we may have more news on that front in the next 4-6 weeks.
Whilst we love our time here at La Briance, we are also excited to be able to spend more time visiting this wonderful country, and taking our foot “off the gas“.
Until then, we look forward to welcoming back our guests - many of whom have visited us several times during our summers here, and we are excited to catch up with those of you planning a short getaway. It seems summer has finally arrived! 🏰

01/03/2024

20/08/2023

Another blissful weekend at the Chateau! There’s so much to do - including doing absolutely nothing by the pool! Dining in the immediate area is stunning, the choice is yours, sightseeing, walking, picnicking & the historic ruins of 12th century Chalucet castle… wish you were here!

17/08/2023

Idyllic French R&R at Chateau La Briance. Seven acres, eight bedrooms & 100% top end luxury. Fly from multiple regional UK & European airports or jump on the ferry. The chateau is just 30-mins from Limoges & most importantly you can enjoy fantastic weather, wine & your hosts are just magical!

05/08/2023

Every bedroom has its own character, view, en-suite & amenities 🛁

Each with space, privacy & classic Chateau styling.

30/07/2023

Your hosts Matt & Helen invite you into their home, enjoy their hospitality, cooking & company during your stay 🫶🏼

You will leave feeling as if Chateau la Briance is your second home!

27/07/2023

This 18th Century building has been meticulously restored to the highest standard, both buildings & interior styling never fail to impress, the work and hospitality detailed in keeping with spirit of the stunning Chateau! 🏰

23/07/2023

The 7-acre Chateau gardens look wonderful in all seasons, but the colour at this ,me of year is breath-taking, differing themes in various areas, and some natural growth for our local wildlife! 🌺

06/07/2023

⭐️ Saint-Hilaire est à l'honneur !

Nous avons eu la joie d'accueillir Monsieur le Maire de la ville de Commune de Saint Hilaire Bonneval , village natal d'Adrien Uijttewaal, accompagné de Matt et Helen Ford du Chateau La Briance briance, chambres d'hôtes du magnifique château du XVIIIème siècle au cœur de la région Limousine. Nous avons passé un excellent moment à leurs côtés! 🥰

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⭐️ Saint-Hilaire in the spotlight!

We were delighted to welcome the Mayor of Saint-Hilaire-Bonneval, Adrien Uijttewaal's home village, accompanied by Matt and Helen Ford from , bed and breakfast in a magnificent 18th-century château in the heart of the Limousin region. We had a great time with them! 🥰

14/06/2023

The Chateau is filling up nicely for the Summer holiday period 🌅

We expect this to be on a level with last year, where we ran at near capacity for July and August.

We will be looking for 1-2 fun loving helpers to assist with the day to day tasks of running a Chateau, whilst enjoying France and it’s lovely weather, food and wine 🍷

If you enjoy Cooking and feel up to helping with changeover days, assisting with bedrooms and ironing- please send us a private email to
[email protected] 🏰

Accommodation within the Chateau, Food, travel expenses are part of the package- full details will be explained if you have the opportunity to join us this Summer.

French speaking is an advantage but not essential.

What better way to spend the Summer 🇫🇷

Matt and Helen

12/06/2023

Daniel writes and sings his own material, all of which can be found on the Château’s jukebox situated next to the bar. 🎶

Come back soon Daniel !!

12/06/2023

What a great time we’ve had, with friends visiting from Tampa - Florida.

Some 8 years ago this month, the incredibly talented Daniel B Marshall sang at our wedding on the beach in St Pete’s Florida. 🎸

Daniel, along with his wife Leslie and two children, visited the Chateau and whilst here, entertained our guests and even our Mayor, Christian.

I love live music, but having our friend sing a set whilst sat on our terrace here at Chateau La Briance is really something special, and will live with us forever. 🏰

Daniel writes and sings his own material, all of which can be found on the Château’s jukebox situated next to the bar.

Other than persuading Siouxsie or The Cult to play a private gig in the grounds, it really doesn’t get any better for us. 🎉

Thank you to Jonathan Warden for sourcing a guitar for Daniel during his week here with us, what a great sound. 🎶

Come back soon Daniel !!

29/05/2023

Our guests have been enjoying the seclusion and calmness of the Oriental Garden. 💐

Occasionally it’s nice to escape the sunshine, and like “Astbury“ our eldest cat- sit and relax in the shade. 🐈

How peaceful listening to the birds, crickets and the gentle waterfall whilst sipping a G&T 🍹.

We hope to see you soon 🏰

26/05/2023

The temperature is rising here in France, and we bask in near 30 degree sunshine this week at Chateau La Briance 🌞

June - August will see many guests returning, along with new clients experiencing the Chateau and this lovely part of France 🇫🇷 for the first time.

We welcomed the Château’s official tree surgeon, the highly talented Jonathan Warden back for his 4th visit to take care of those needing maintenance within the grounds.

We love working with Jonathan, as his planning and accuracy is outstanding.
Our concern was a 30 metre tall tree standing just 20 metres from the Chateau 🏰 with a very large hole in the bottom.

Further investigation showed the tree to be in dire condition, and all types on termites and grubs had taken residence.

What an incredible job he did, felling the tree on exactly the spot he marked she would come down.
It’s no wonder this guy has such a great reputation🌳

Now time for a cocktail at the Chateau bar, or better still with family and friends sitting on the terrace enjoying the sunset 🌅

We look forward to hearing from you shortly. Contact [email protected]

Cheers 🥂
Matt and Helen

28/04/2023

We’ve never actually shown the Owners Suite at the Chateau 🏰

We sleep in one of the Chateau’s large turrets named after the French Astrologer - Nostradamus.

The area is 60+ square metres, with a walk in wardrobe and large shower room.

We chose this room not for its size, but it’s actually the hardest of all the rooms to keep warm in the Winter, so prefer to offer our guests rooms that maintain the heat better in the colder period.

We are well into our first year’s contract with a respected American tour company 🇺🇸

They have exclusively hired the Chateau for 43 occasions, and we are pleased to say that 2024 is going to be further good news for Chateau La Briance.

More on that as soon as contracts are signed.

This Summer will see many friends visiting us from all over the World. Singer Daniel B Marshall arrives in just over a month from Tampa, Darcy Ward- the most incredible talent witnessed on a Speedway bike will be here in August after a long trip from Australia and my great friend Terry Russell brings his large group of friends along for an exclusive Chateau hire at the end of August for his second visit.

We hope to see many more of you visiting this glorious historical part of France 🇫🇷 in the near future.
Contact us on [email protected]

09/04/2023

Happy Easter 🐣

What a fun weekend we’ve had at the Chateau. Fully booked and the opening of The Chateau’s own Tea Room. ☕️ 🍰

You will see a photo attached of our friend Damaris who is looking after the new exciting feature here in Saint Hilaire Bonneval- 87260.

It gives guests the chance to visit the Orangerie, whilst having a well earned cake and something to drink. Tea, Coffee, or perhaps a G &T or Champagne 🍾- what could be better. 🎉

Enjoy your weekend, and we hope to see you soon.

Matt and Helen 🏰

🐣

04/04/2023

It feels like Summer has arrived. ☀️

The Chateau is beginning to bloom, the grass is cut and it’s great to have old and new friends visiting.

Contact us on [email protected] to book your trip.

Matt and Helen 🏰

🇫🇷

01/04/2023

Our Spa and Sauna is up and running, offering guests a little more pampering during their stay.

What a great way to spoil loved ones by sharing a bottle of Champagne 🥂whilst enjoying the relaxing Spa.

We can also arrange for a Private massage if you’re looking to unwind.

One room still available for Easter, or why contact us if you are heading to this beautiful part of France for your summer vacation.

We can’t wait to meet you. 🏰
[email protected]

Room rate from just €160-195 Euros per night to include breakfast.

16/03/2023

15/03/2023

What a week it’s been. 🥂

Finally we welcomed our inaugural American 🇺🇸 tour guests, who were wonderful.

Helen and I have been invited to so many parts of the U.S that finding time to work may be a problem! 😂 If every tour event this year is as much fun, our life will be easy.

We have plenty of availability from March to June, so if you are feeling the urge to travel, and drink great wine 🍷, then why not head along to the Chateau. 🏰

We look forward to catching up soon.

Matt and Helen

04/02/2023

Bookings continue to rush in for February onwards. Valentine’s 💞 is fully booked and of course we start our contract in March for our American guests.

We’ve been busy having merchandise designed and printed whilst having time. In particular we would like to thank Shu Milne for the quite beautiful artwork she had been commissioned to prepare for Chateau La Briance. 🏰

Shu, we are delighted with the finished outcome, and cannot recommend you more highly.

Fabulous work by the talented Shu milne art studio Art Studio. Check her out 👌 🎨

We look forward to catching up with so many guests returning to the Chateau this coming year.

Helen and I take the greatest pleasure in those coming back and enjoying the atmosphere of this wonderful Castle.

See you all soon
Matt and Helen x

20/01/2023

2023 is going to be our busiest year to date. 🥳

We are incredibly proud to announce the signing of easily our largest contract to so far!

A recognised American 🇺🇸 tour agency that specialise in vacations for our friends across the pond, have exclusively booked the Chateau on 45 separate occasions in the coming year, including every room available.

With additional advanced bookings currently over double this time last year, we cannot thank you all enough for the amazing support we have received.

We hope you all have a great weekend 🎉

Matt and Helen 🏰

#2023

27/12/2022

What a truly magical December we have had here at Chateau La Briance.

The Chateau has been packed to it’s historic beams. 🏰

Masked Ball, engagement party, exclusive private events over 4-5 days and festive get togethers, all leading into the wonderful Christmas celebrations over the last few days. 🎅🏻

Guests joined us for Christmas from Mauritius, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Australia along with Brits from Scotland, Wales and England.

What a remarkable Christmas dinner table.

We thank you all for such an enjoyable holiday season. With hundreds of guests passing through our door in December, we finish the month off with a private family booking for the New Year.

Happy New Year to each and everyone. We have further great news for Chateau La Briance coming on our next post with the signing of our largest contract to date.
Enjoy your celebrations 🎉🎉

Matt and Helen x

16/12/2022

Ready to Party 🎈 🎉.

Are you busy this Christmas!? 🧑🏻‍🎄

If not, we have availability for you to join us here at the Chateau due to a guest unfortunately having to postpone their trip.

✈️ Flights are available from Stansted, East Midlands and Manchester flying directly into Limoges with Ryanair.

Contact us for details at [email protected]

We would love to see you .
Matt and Helen

07/12/2022

We’ve had amazing parties to kick off the Festive Season 🎉.

What with Christmas dinner parties, and the Orangery being used by 85 fun loving locals at the weekend, it’s certainly been a great start.

This weekend we have our first Winter Masked Ball🎭 promoted by [email protected]
We are pleased to say the event is sold out, and what a pleasure it is to be working with Damaris.

We still have a few places for our 2 day Christmas getaway, 🎅🏻staying in the Chateau’s large En-suite and including all your food for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Just €595 per room ( 2 people).🏰

Thanks again for following our journey.

Matt and Helen
Chateau La Briance

28/11/2022

🎉 Helen and Matt invite you to join us for the Christmas celebrations.

Unfortunately New Years Eve is fully sold out, but we do have a small amount of availability for Christmas Eve/ Day, staying at the Chateau for a 2 night ( minimum) stay.

🔥 What a relief it is to be open with no restrictions this year. After two years of seeing the Festive Season cruelly taken from us all, we finally get the chance to share the Chateau with its magical lights, fires and favourite Christmas songs filling the halls at this wonderful time of the year.

Included in your stay:
2 Nights Accommodation in a private en-suite, to include breakfast.

24th
* Welcome Drink, Cream Tea mid afternoon.
* Set 3 course Evening Meal.
25th
* Traditional Christmas Dinner mid afternoon .
* Charcuterie and Cheese board, with Mulled Wine served in the evening.
Price €595 per couple/ room.

🎄 So if you are looking for something a little different, or would like to take that special person in your life away to relax, contact us on [email protected]
to book your place. We look forward to celebrating with you.

Matt and Helen

12/11/2022

🎄Christmas will be with us in no time at all!

❄️ We will be celebrating in style here at Chateau La Briance, and have limited availability for a two night stay Christmas Eve/ Day.

🏰 Included in your stay:
2 Nights Accommodation in a private en-suite, to include breakfast.

🗓️ 24th | Welcome Drink, Cream Tea mid afternoon, Set 3 course Evening Meal.
🗓️ 25th | Traditional Christmas Dinner mid afternoon, Charcuterie and Cheese board, with Mulled Wine served in the evening.

Price €595 per couple/ room.

Please contact us on [email protected] to book your place. We look forward to celebrating with you.

13/09/2022

🎥 Wednesday 14th September, Chateau DIY on Channel 4.

📺 Watch our first wedding here at Chateau La Briance. We can’t wait to be reminded of the wonderful 5 day Wedding Party, enjoyed by Family and Friends of Adam and Amy. Tune in and see the drama unfold, including the caterers blowing the electrical circuit!

Who said it would be easy 😂

Matt and Helen 🏰