Alissa Stroud gets a taste of magnificence at Champneys Eastwell Manor Hotel & Health Spa, a rejuvenating stay nestled in the picturesque Kent countryside
From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this would be a stay to remember. The drive up to the hotel was nothing short of enchanting, as we were greeted by lush, meticulously maintained gardens that seemed to stretch out endlessly.
As we approached the main Manor House, I was immediately struck by its grandeur. The building itself – clad in ivy – was a stunning blend of historical charm and elegance, exuding a sense of timeless beauty.
The architecture, with its intricate details and stately presence, made it feel as though we had stepped back into a bygone era. Yet, it was evident that the property had been thoughtfully updated to offer all the modern comforts you could need.
The Room
Upon entering the Manor House, we were warmly welcomed by the friendly and attentive staff, who made the check-in process smooth and effortless. We were lucky enough to be staying in a suite – Daisy – which was outside of the main manor house and a short amble away through the grounds.
We opened the door to our room in the quaint cottage, and it had clearly been recently renovated – we were in for such a treat. The suite was incredibly spacious, offering a perfect blend of modern design and comfort, yet still being sympathetic to the wider aesthetic of the hotel as well as complementary to the expansive grounds.
The decor was tasteful and sophisticated, with a colour palette that was both soothing and inviting. The king-sized bed was the epitome of luxury, adorned with high-quality linens that promised a restful night’s sleep.
The suite also featured a cosy seating area, complete with a plush sofa, television, tea and coffee making facilitates, and an armchair perfect for curling up on with a good book.
The suite even boasted a beautiful private al fresco terrace complete with a table and lounger beds – and whilst the weather was a little uninspiring when we visited, it would be the perfect spot to soak up the sunshine in secluded privacy.
I love a good hotel bathroom, and this one was up there with the best. It was incredibly spacious, boasting a decadent rolltop bath complete with plenty of luxury toiletries for a truly relaxing soak, as well as a separate waterfall shower that was powerful and invigorating!
We headed to the spa in the afternoon, although unfortunately the indoor pool was closed for maintenance. Other facilities in the spa include a jacuzzi, hydrotherapy pool, sauna and steam room, as well as a relaxation room. I will say, whilst the rest of the hotel was truly top tier, the spa did feel a little tired and like it is in need of some TLC, in order to match the rest of the hotel’s impressive facilities. Please note however, a face lift is set to be unveiled soon – the spa’s refurbishment is estimated for completion in October 2024.
This being said, I absolutely wouldn’t let it deter you from visiting – and I wouldn’t hesitate to visit again either – but I would say go for a relaxing staycation and night away with a partner or friend, vs going expecting a full spa experience.
The Food & Drink
Come evening, we wandered up to the Manor House and stopped into The Lounge Bar – a beautiful space with dark wooden panelling adorning the walls, incredible views over the grounds and plenty of cosy corners to settle in to with a drink in hand. Service was attentive yet relaxed, and it was the perfect stop off before dinner.
Gardenia is the hotel’s restaurant and where we headed for our evening meal. Again, the space was beautiful and oozed old world charm. Gardenia offers farm-to-table dining, showcasing the best locally sourced ingredients. Starters stole the show – my guest had the Rye Bay scallops with sea lettuce and warm tartare sauce and they were delicious.
Big, meaty scallops, cooked to perfection and with that gorgeous tangy tartare sauce. I am always a sucker for burrata – Gardenia’s was beautifully presented and served with pickled heritage tomatoes and Kentish cobnut pesto which were incredibly fresh and singing with flavour.
For mains, I tucked into Romney Marsh Lamb with shoulder croquette, pea and mint puree and pickled rosemary gel. The meat was cooked beautifully, wonderfully pink on the inside and incredibly tender, whilst the croquette was a surprising and tasty treat with.
My guest had a rib eye steak and again said it was cooked to perfection, and melted in the mouth, perfectly accompanied by thick, crisp, beef dripping chips.
We were both incredibly full, but couldn’t resist the deconstructed lemon meringue pie for pudding. Again, the presentation was outstanding – truly a work of art to behold, and it tasted as good as it looked. Soft marshmallow fluff was offset with crisp bites of meringue and zingy lemon curd. It was the perfect end to a delicious meal.
The Wordrobe Verdict
Overall, our stay at Eastwell Manor was wonderful. Every single staff member we encountered couldn’t do enough for us, and each had the most friendly, positive attitude, which goes a long way.
We left feeling thoroughly rejuvenated, relaxed, and at peace. It was the perfect way to spend a weekend and a must visit if you’re looking for a romantic getaway or girls weekend.
Make it happen
Where: Eastwell Park, Ashford TN25 4HR
How: Find out more and make a booking via champneys.com
Words by Alissa Stroud, freelance writer
