The South Lodge is a grand event nestled off just a road in the heart of the South Downs that are dramatic. Such a location offers tumbling tamed bracken and unrivaled beauty, views, trees and even a lake — winter inviting walks and lazy summer strolls.
The Hotel, whilst big (it retains 89 bedrooms) was not immediately visible from the street, and it was just once we turned into the estate and had driven via a scenic arch of trees that the 1883 country house came into view.
Inspired, broad and indulgent, it’s the perfect retreat for absolute indulgence, nice wine as well as sweeter meals. The rooms, spacious and not distinctive, but beautiful, supply an night’s sleeping on mattresses.
We remained in the one of those suites. With two desks, 3 piece suite, a king-sized bed and views across the South Downs there is more you could wish for in a countryside retreat. Tasteful décor and thoughtful touches (like this unique flowers vase) really make you feel that extra bit special.
The toilet on its own is a reason to visit. From each hotel I have ever visited the others – threw . Contemporary tiling, a huge shower (that made you feel like you were at a spa,) his n’ hers sinks (goodbye bathroom bickering) plus a beautiful roll-top bathroom made this room amazing. The high ceilings and mood light made it better.
No two rooms in this Hotel will be the same- some two rooms even having their very own open-air hot tubs and boasting four poster beds or two bathrooms.
No facet not considered, there’s nothing spared, when it comes to dining. It is possible to begin your dining experience with a drink the ‘Billiard Bar’ — the main pub. They serve a wide range of cocktails, from classics to the Head Bartender’s special creations. Warm and this is a area a open fire along with gentle classical music plays crackles from the corner.
For dinner you have the choice of either the Camellia Restaurant (which is where we dined), the Cellar, that provides light bites and a selection of over 200 wines, or the Walk, a Michelin Star restaurant which has 4AA Rosettes. The Camellia was an ideal combination for a sumptuous meal, between being too-casual and too pretentious, balancing perfectly. It’s ideal for feeling particular and getting dressed up, but without being too over the top. And the food was delicious. A offering is available and you’ll be missing out in the event that you don’t elect for three, whilst you would be happy with having two courses.
Starters range from duck breast to pigeon to lobster raviolo. All food is cooked into utter perfection, portion sizes on point along with the myriad of flavours provide your palette a true treat. Mains are the winner here. As a self-professed sweet-tooth it is not often I favor the mains but the sumptuous array of choices presented make it a no-brainer. Normally restaurants of such are limited with three or perhaps two and a vegetarian option. The South Lodge presents offerings from Sussex Beef to Venison, Pork or Hogget, using a couple of two vegetarian options and fish choices. I picked the roast beef and not only was the meat tender and flavoursome, but it was hot and it had been apparent why the restaurant receives the raving reviews it does.
Desserts, again, are plentiful in their offering, with a few eccentric options in there such as smoked beetroot and chocolate. For fruit fans, there is plenty to select from- carrot cake apple parfait and rhubarb sour all take a look.
I would nevertheless, have to urge the cheese board. This is not any slab of three crackers with a couple of cheeses. You are brought a tray of crackers as well as an extensive cheese trolley is wheeled around for one to make your choices. Your waiter tastes and will go describing their origin- that is a restaurant where your staffs knowledge and fire shines through.
After dinner, you can return to the pub for a delicate after-dinner tipple (we picked a local malt whisky) and allow all your worries go as the classical music and nice drinks shoot over.
The following day, be certain to wander round the 93 property. Together with 260 varieties of camellias, rhododendrons and azaleas which, when in blossom, present a sea of colour, it is well worth picking on some flowers for the vase in your room and taking in the opinion. Bring a picnic with you and enjoy it and take in the countryside like that. If you’re in to your sports, play a game of croquet, golf or golfing at the Hotel’s sister property, Mannings Heath Golf Club just a brief drive away.
We were hosted in the South Lodge resort by Pride of Britain Hotels for a night and stayed in one of the deluxe suites. A double room for 2 people per night including VAT from #195. Family lodging available. For best available prices call Pride of Britain Hotels on 0800 089 3929 or see their website here.
South Lodge Hotel
Brighton Rd
Horsham
West Sussex
RH13 6PS
Picture From:seeninthecity.co.uk
