Monkey Island Estate has opened in Bray-on-Thames, England. Part of the YTL Group, the historic estate is set across seven acres on an island with a rich history dating back 800 years. The hotel consists of 41 bedrooms and suites, designed by New York-based Champalimaud Design. Champalimaud have created a ‘contemporary, English country house feel’, with custom furnishings and rooms with views over the Thames. It also features a Floating Spa on a bespoke crafted barge.

The island is thought to get its name from the monks that settled there in the 12th century. Charles Spencer, the 3rd Duke of Malborough, bought the land in 1723 to create an angling retreat, and commissioned two buildings from architect Robert Morris; a Fishing Temple and a two storey Fishing Pavilion. By 1840, the pavilion had become an inn; over the years the estate hosted famous guests including Edward VII, HG Wells, Siegfried Sassoon and Edward Elgar.

The island was bought by YTL Hotels in 2015 after the late YTL founder Yeoh Tiong Lay visited and fell in love with the property.