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Editor loves... Barnett Hill, Surrey
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The beautiful four-star Queen Anne-style country house, Barnett Hill, has always been one of my favourite Surrey wedding venues and read on to find out why... Barnett Hill Hotel sits within the Surrey Hills – an area of outstanding natural beauty – on a hilltop location with unparalleled 360-degree views of the hills and beyond. Boasting more than 26 acres of manicured grounds and gardens it’s the perfect backdrop for weddings.
Whenever I've seen images I've swooned over the picture-perfect house and gardens, they're just completely idyllic. Not thinking I could love this venue any more, the multimillion pound refurbishment has taken this venue to a whole new level, elevating its luxury, boutique hotel status to provide a first-class relaxing getaway and wedding destination.
Driving up to the venue is always a pleasure, hidden at the end of a treelined driveway, the house comes in to view, proud yet inviting. The new décor has transformed the entrance in to a light and welcoming reception space, elegantly styled setting the tone for the rest of the property. Greeted by a warm and friendly receptionist we were keen to see our room. From the stairwells to the hallways, each area of the hotel has been loving renovated with high design-led finish, yet the charm and character of the original property is as enchanting as before. Our luxurious twin room – I was treating my mum to a night away – was overlooking the gardens and beyond. A view hard to beat the next day as the sun rose and the morning mist dissipated. Contemporary in style, I adored the colour palettes and furnishings used across the hotel, and the bathroom was spacious boasting an inviting large bath and two sinks with vanity mirrors. The original fireplace was still on show, a nod its history that won't want to be forgotten.
After relaxing in our suite it was hard to drag ourselves away from such comforts but I'm so glad we did; as dinner in The Oak Room Restaurant was divine. Offering award-winning dining – head chef Lee Young was awarded 2 AA Rosettes – the menu was so tempting it was hard to choose only three courses. But alas, we stepped up to the challenge and finally decide upon, Fried Cod Cheeks, salt cod brandade, garlic and saffron aioli and sea vegetables, Pan Fried Sea Bass, potato and crab cake, spiced lentils, almond and basil pesto, finished off with a Duo of Chocolate Mouse, salted caramel, white and dark chocolate and meringue mushrooms. Each mouth fall was as flavoursome as the next, all expertly presented each course left you eager to try the next.
Post-dinner, we were still looking to enjoy our evening so opted for a cheeky tipple in the new 1905 Bar. Again, we swooned over the new décor, and the atmosphere was charming and intimate. Tasting the highly regarded, locally made Silent Pool Gin – my mum's new favourite gin – we were ready for bed. After a wonderful night's sleep, breakfast didn't disappoint, with a choice of cooked options or continental buffet, we were fuelled and ready to go – a shame to check out!
Tyting the knot at at Barnett Hill Hotel...
The Grade II listed mansion house – dating back to 1905 – has been lovingly refurbished in a classic style and offers an array of beautiful suites and open public spaces. Many of Barnett Hill’s original features still remain, including the summer house, tea house and greenhouse.
Couples looking to tie the knot here can wed in the Drawing Room with up to 70 guests. This bespoke wedding ceremony suite features wood panelling and an original fireplace. It also has direct access to the terrace and gardens.
Alternatively, The Oak Room, the largest ceremony suite, also feature wood panelling as well as contemporary chandeliers and can host up to 80 loved ones – it also has direct access outside.
After the all-important vows, receptions take place in the Garden Suite. The largest suite, it’s newly refurbished and features natural daylight with views across the manicured gardens. Neutral in decoration, it has an original feature fireplace complementing the classically style. It’s suitable for up to 80 day guests and up to 120 evening guests.
When choosing this venue, couples can enjoy a wedding breakfast tasting for the happy couple, and benefit from preferential accommodation rates for all guests for the night of the wedding.
01483 893 361 | www.alexanderhotels.co.uk/barnett-hill/
