Every now and then, you stumble across a place that completely takes you by surprise – in the best possible way.
For me, that place is Wotton House. Nestled in the stunning Surrey Hills it has the perfect mix of history and modern comfort. The winding drive up to the house is lined with towering trees and immediately sets the tone that you are about to encounter a very English countryside (somewhat fairy-tale) stay.
The elegant red brick house is grand but still feels warm and welcoming and the gardens are an actual dream!
Boasting 13 acres of landscaped gardens, plus a secret garden with a little Italian temple tucked away at the back, you feel as though you have stepped back into the 17th Century.
The Grade II listed Italian garden is stunning and walking around in my New Balance trainers and sportswear, I felt a little guilty that I wasn’t more dressed up and ready to star in my very own period drama. It’s totally romantic and came as no surprise that it is a hugely popular wedding venue.
There is a lot of history behind the estate and its creative agriculture. The late John Evelyn, from the Evelyn family who owned Wotton House for centuries, was the mastermind botanist behind the Italian garden which was the first of its kind in England. The grounds are now also home to Wotton Bees which have proved to be super successful and helps to ensure the hotel adheres to their environmental policy. I made sure I got a jar of honey to bring home with me too!
Starting with afternoon tea before checking in was a highlight. With the sun seeping through the windows as spring has finally arrived, I enjoyed my peppermint tea and glass of bubbles with some delicately made cakes and sandwiches. The scones were pretty darn good! With a hearty serving of clotted cream (I always find most places never give you enough!).
After tea time, checking in was quick with my bags taken up to my suite ahead of me. The hotel itself boasts 127 rooms and suites, I had the pleasure of staying in the Jasmine suite. The interior of the hotel is filled with little touches, cosy armchairs dotted around, fireplaces lit in the evenings and a bar that serves an impressive cocktail. Of course, with so many acres, al fresco drinks and dining are encouraged, so you can swoon over the views from the comfort of a Wotton House Hotel branded deck chair.
Dinner was lovely with fresh, seasonal ingredients, and really friendly staff who actually seem to care. I devoured the new spring dish on the menu of Duo of Lamb but I have to take my hat off to Chef for the incredible starter of Pressed Jerusalem Artichoke with hen yolk and artichoke crisps! Never had an artichoke like it!
The 1877 restaurant not only serves dinner but lunch and breakfast too. Breakfast is just as good and served buffet-style with all the classics. I even kidnapped a few pastries from the brekkie spread and took them to the bright morning room with a cup of tea and sat watching the overnight frost disappear from the grass.
If you fancy burning off all the glorious food, then you can go for a meander on one of the walking trails, (the hotel has little maps printed and ready for all guests to use), or maybe you would fancy bike riding, you can do both with ease. Or If you’re looking for a more relaxing afternoon, a swim in the petite pool or dip in the jacuzzi at the onsite club. Guests can also use the gym which is open early doors, steam room and sauna. In true country house style, there is also a tennis court.
Stays are affordable and comfort levels are high here at Wotton House. It’s great for a change of scenery that feels indulgent but not over the top and the kind of place that makes you forget about emails and deadlines as you listen to the bird song all day. We all need a bit more of that!
Review and Images by Zoe Laing @_zozogram_
Feature image supplied
