Of course, the whole point of the Continental GT Speed Convertible is the ability to lower her soft-top roof. Mechanical mastery in motion, the operation is complete in seconds – perfect for unpredictable British weather when you might need to raise it up again just as quickly. On sunny days, there is nothing quite like driving along British country roads in a Bentley GT; breeze in your hair, smile on your face. It’s the ultimate driving experience.
If you’re a Bentley owner, you’ll know the drooling admiration the beautiful GT Speed attracts – from all ages and genders. At several of the hotels we stayed at there was a look of genuine surprise from front of house when they saw two ladies emerging from what is generally considered a ‘gentleman’s’ car, but also admiration and a definite vibe of ‘wish that was me’. And there’s the rub. When you’ve dropped this much cash for a car, secure parking is essential. Thankfully I had chosen hotels with very effective security.
On the subject of parking, the GT Speed makes it easy, thanks to its six sensors in the front bumper and four in the rear. You’ll get a camera view from the infotainment centre and if you press the PDC button a visual park distance graphic appears showing clear zones around the front and rear. Select ‘parking bay mode’ and the display will show guidelines to help you measure your way in. Very useful.
Our next stopover was the Manor hotel at Weston-on-the-Green near Oxford, a beautiful manor house with a history dating back 900 years. Both Elizabeth I and Henry VIII have stayed here and the delightful grounds are a joy to walk around. We enjoyed a great dinner at the local pub, The Black Sheep and also ate at the hotel’s own restaurant.
The following day, it was a westwards motor to Bibury Court Hotel near Cirencester – a stunning Jacobean manor house – and 17th-century Barnsley House Hotel and Spa. The latter is the perfect Cotswold hideaway and formerly the home of renowned gardener Rosemary Verey.
The Bentley tackled the country roads with aplomb – rain was no problem – the windscreen auto sensors work brilliantly. Only a couple times at slow speed did I feel handling could have been better. I’d say this thoroughbred is happier at higher speeds but at no time did I feel out of control. And if the worse were to happen then driver and front seat passenger are protected by front and side airbags. Drivers also have knee airbags for extra protection. The rear seats are fairly snug – perfect for small adults and children, but with legroom at 31.7 inches it’s a tight fit for a long-legged six-footer.
Our last hotel stop was an overnight stay at Raymond Blanc’s divine Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, just outside the village of Great Milton. This world-renowned Michelin-starred hotel and restaurant thoroughly deserves its legendary status. Reserve the sensual Lace Suite and savour the gustatory smorgasbord of the five- or seven-course tasting menu.
Such a luxurious destination was a fitting end to a thrilling driving weekend in the Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible – an experience that will stay in my heart and mind forever. I’ve driven many supercars but nothing comes close to the sheer excitement, enjoyment and pleasure I had driving the GT Speed around Oxfordshire. I miss her already
Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible – figures at a glance:
Price: Basic model is £185,200
Full option cost: £223,795
Engine:
6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12
Performance:
0 – 60mph: 4.1 secs
0 – 100mph: 9.7 sec
Top speed: 203 mph
Max power: 633 bhp / 472 kW / 642 PS @5900rpm
Max torque: 840 Nm/ 620 lb.ft @2000rpm
CO2 g/km: 347
Fuel economy :
Fuel tank capacity: 90 litres (20 UK gallons)
Combined fuel economy: 19.0 mpg
Urban: 12.7 mpg
Boot volume: 260 litres
Paint: 17 standard colours and a further 90+ optional bespoke upon request. The hood comes in 3 standard colours and 5 optional.
Hide colours: 17 standard. Plus a bespoke colour split as seen on the gorgeous Bentley by Blake
For more information on the Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible, visit www.bentleymotors.com.
Accommodation:
Champneys
www.champneys.com
The Manor Country House Hotel
www.themanorweston.com
Barnsley House Hotel and Spa
www.barnsleyhouse.com
Bibury Court Hotel
www.biburycourt.com
Belmond Manoir aux Quat’Saisons
www.belmond.com/le-manoir-aux-quat-saisons-oxfordshire
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