Nutfield Priory Hotel & Spa ★★★★

The Surrey Downs paint the perfect picture of quaint England. Rolling hills give way into tiny villages peppered with thatched houses and local farmers’ shops. Amidst it all, the Nutfield Priory Hotel rises up in Victorian splendour, inspired by the Neo-Gothic façade of the Palace of Westminster.

As a keen traveller, I often forget the beauty that can be found on my own doorstep, so it was with great anticipation that I delved into the English charm of the Nutfield Priory. Situated close to the town of Redhill, it is easy to get to, but once I arrived on the huge, 12 acre estate, it felt like I was in the middle of the English countryside, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Built back in 1872, the hotel remains loyal to its historic roots. Its mansion-like exterior is characterised by magnificent stained glass windows, arched doorways, and stonework that is quintessentially English. As I crunched up the gravel pathway to the grand opening, I let my mind wander from my to-do list and basked in the tranquil surroundings, the Surrey countryside unfolding in every direction around me. But despite its grandiose appearance, I couldn’t have received a warmer welcome from the staff, who immediately made me feel at home. Inside, the incredible design continued with high ceilings, wide corridors, and grand paintings lining the walls – exactly how I’d expect an English mansion to look. My room was all muted walls, carved wooden sleigh bed, thick, gemstone curtains, plush furniture, luxurious ornaments, and large, colourful paintings. The windows oozed with light, but the cosy ambiance would have been equally as beautiful in the dreary weather England is so well-known for.

I continued to be surprised throughout the hotel. Its elegant lounge area was lined with heavy, traditional bookshelves, squishy armchairs, and low-slung tables with an ornate fireplace taking centre stage. The Cloisters Restaurant was decorated in the same vein, with a heavy emphasis on traditional English charm. Here, I dined on delicious traditional British dishes (again, something I regularly take for granted) whilst looking out across the incredible Surrey countryside.

The serene atmosphere and the comfortable décor is enough to soothe your soul, but there is also the Members Health Club, which sits just a short walk away across the Nutfield Priory car park. This spa offers a well-equipped programme set inside an elegant building. The gym is the perfect way to start the day, whilst the indoor pool, sauna, and steam rooms, provide the ideal backdrop to unwind against and get to know the locals who regularly use the club. The area surrounding the hotel is filled with fun activities, too, boasting a range of cultural sights and adventurous pursuits, like golf and hikes along the North Downs Way.

Surrey is right on my doorstep, but with the whole world on offer, and yet I’d always overlooked it. I’m so glad I didn’t this time, as the Nutfield Priory Hotel gave me a new-found love of my country. It was a pleasure to delve into the ornate English decor, tuck into delicious British dishes, and marvel at the incredible English countryside, and, if I’m ever feeling jaded by busy city life again, I’ll head back in an instant!