Beaverbrook, Surrey, UK
Beaverbrook, Surrey, UK
Reviewed April 2024
Hidden amidst the picturesque Surrey Hills, Beaverbrook, once owned by the esteemed newspaper magnate Lord Beaverbrook, a great friend of Winston Churchill, epitomises refined luxury. Stepping onto the estate, you’re embraced by a harmonious blend of timeless luxury, history and contemporary flair, a testament to Susie Atkinson's visionary designs from Soho House. This exclusive country house hotel and spa extends a warm invitation to couples, friends, families and four-legged friends. It offers many delights within its stunning Coach House spa, choice of restaurants, and magnificent gardens.
The iconic Spitfire emblem captures the ethos of Lord Beaverbrook. As the wartime Minister of Aircraft Production, Beaverbrook famously tripled the production of Spitfires. This monumental achievement enabled Britain to secure a crucial victory in the Battle of Britain, transforming near-defeat into a triumphant success. The emblem symbolises resilience, innovation, and determination—core values that continue to inspire Beaverbrook today.
Lord Beaverbrook created his own private cinema in the main house at Beaverbrook. Here, you can watch a film every day in the lush velvet seats, and there are showings throughout the day, including afternoon sessions for little ones and post-dinner films for date night.
The 29 rooms and suites at Beaverbrook are charming and luxurious and are spread across the main house, coach house, and The Village (home to 21 rooms), which are a short walk or buggy ride from the main house. Expect spacious bathrooms with indulgent roll-top baths, Bamford products, crisp linens and thoughtful attention to detail, including complimentary minibars, sloe gin, Frette bathrobes and turn-down service; every detail ensures an unforgettable stay. If it's a view you're after, opt for a Turret room in the main house, boasting a private terrace that is perfect for soaking in the breathtaking sunset. For privacy, the coach house cottages are ideal; some are dog-friendly and sleep with a family of four.
The Coach House Spa, is a masterpiece conceived by renowned glass artist Brian Clarke. Vibrant stained-glass windows and intricate tilework create a haven of colourful tranquillity, offering sanctuary for rejuvenating treatments complemented by flowing water channels great for the replenishment of negative ions negative ions, believed to produce biochemical reactions that increase levels of the mood chemical serotonin, helping to alleviate depression, relieve stress, and boost energy. Beaverbrook believes in a holistic, natural, and nurturing approach when it comes to wellness, and in addition to the treatment rooms, there’s a steam room, sauna, Jacuzzi and hammam. Light floods in through Brian Clarke’s stained glass, hitting the wide, heated treatment beds, enhancing the experience and healing process.
Meanwhile, the Health Club boasts splendid indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a Deli serving nourishing superfood salads and refreshing juices, and a spacious cutting-edge gym (with Pilates reformers) for those looking to stretch out and keep up with their fitness.
The Meadow Hut is where the Vibrational Sound Bodywork journey begins with a cleansing smudging session using sage and rosemary to purify the body. You’re then immersed in a transformative sound bathing ritual featuring chimes, Tibetan bowls, gongs, and occasionally tuning forks, designed to soothe and rejuvenate both body and mind. Dating back to ancient civilisations, sound and music have been revered not just for their recreational value, but also for their healing properties, offering a profound sense of balance, stress reduction, mood enhancement, and even relief from physical pain. The culmination of this treatment is a bespoke biodynamic full-body massage, expertly tailored to your individual needs using a selection of Coach House essential oils. This holistic approach combines the therapeutic power of music and sound with the nurturing essence of nature, leaving you feeling deeply relaxed and revitalised. You’ll experience the transformative synergy of music, sound, and nature, and emerge from your session feeling renewed and reinvigorated.
Sir Frank’s Bar is where your evening will begin. The creative vision of Sir Frank Lowe shines through in the bar, where the walls boast over 350 paintings by Victorian botanical artist Marianne North, while the Gatsbyesque art-deco bar features topaz-blue velvet stools and plumped-up club chairs. There’s a menu of Japanese-inspired tacos and light bites, along with an extensive selection of drinks served in beautiful glassware. The bar team are friendly, easy on the eye and talented when it comes to cocktails! For discerning foodies, the Japanese Grill, in the main house, affectionately known as the ‘Nobu of Surrey,’ promises an exquisite culinary journey, with a selection of sushi, sashimi, and nigiri complemented by the finest cuts of meat and fish.
For a light lunch, head to The Coach House Deli, which has a lovely terrace overlooking the front of the house, or take a stroll to The Garden House Restaurant, tucked away behind the traditional walled kitchen garden. Here, simple and delicious home-cooked dishes are served in a dining room decorated with country house interiors inspired by the surrounding gardens.
While adults revel in the lavish offerings, children are equally enchanted with the Sharky & George kid's club, extensive woodlands to explore, a whimsical treehouse, and a playground. Impeccable service at Beaverbrook ensures a seamless experience from check-in to room service, where requests are met with warmth, efficiency, impressive historical knowledge and humour.
At Beaverbrook, every moment is filled with gentle sophistication and grace, promising an unforgettable escape amidst the idyllic Surrey countryside.
Rating: 10/10
Why go? Why not? Blissful tranquillity and service in a gorgeous setting. Excellent service, fantastic spa and delicious food. Your own country house pad for the weekend or mid-week break. A romantic hotel and perfect for a birthday or anniversary celebration. The spa is one of the best in the UK. If it’s good enough for Winston Churchill it’s good enough for you!