As far as weekends go, this weekend was a pretty good one. Arriving at the magical Alexander House was exciting enough but sharing the weekend with my best friend and our mum's made it extra special. Set within 120 acres of dreamy parkland, this retreat is the ultimate staycation. Located in West Sussex, the journey was under an hour drive from London on a Saturday morning. Far enough to feel like a country escape, yet not quite so far you dread the return journey back home (no Sunday anxiety). Dating back to the 17th century, Alexander House is a country-house-turned hotel with a stylish interior with traditional elements such as the roaring antique fireplace at reception contrasted to the newer extensions.
Welcome to Alexander House
Checking in for the weekend (Dress - & Other Stories)
As soon as you step on the grounds you slip into full on relaxation mode. The winding driveway overlooks the Sussex green hills and 14 acres of National Trust woodland that Alexander House backs on to. We all live busy lives with full on schedules and visiting this country house hotel automatically makes you want to switch off and leave the world you left behind at the gates. The hotel has an adult, unpretentious atmosphere with the Utopia Spa strictly for over 18's only, perfect for a chic girls weekend or romantic getaway.
Terrace @ Alexander House
I have a bit of a thing for antique tiles (Shoes - Celine)
To kick things off, as we had a birthday to celebrate, champagne and presents were in order (as if we needed an excuse). The grounds of Alexander House are manicured to perfection in true English countryside style and with the weather putting on a show we dined alfresco. There are several restaurants to chose from - AG's restaurant (fine dining - offers a 9 course tasting menu for £85 or £125 with wines), Reflections (casual) with open air courtyard, 1608 Champagne Bar, Lounge & Terrace as well as numerous private dining rooms.
The perfect table to pitch up for the afternoon
Cheers me dears!
Taking full advantage of the sunshine we happily positioned ourselves on the terrace and enjoyed lunch from the Lounge menu whilst soaking in the rays. I opted for the salad of ruby beetroot & Sussex slip coat goats cheese with crispy pine nuts and wild roquette (yes, it tasted just as good as it looks).
Beetroot and goats cheese salad al fresco
After a glass (or two), it was time to check in to our gorgeous room. We stayed in the attic rooms on the third floor of the main house cosy with rich velvet textures and a large freestanding bath we made ourselves very much home. Followed by a tour of the hotel and a visit to the Utopia Spa....
Alexander House is famous for its spa, and the main reason people visit to relax in the luxury surroundings of the Sussex countryside. The Grecian-themed spa earns Alexander House its 5* rating; indoor pool with Tuscan columns, zen garden with outdoor Scandi-style hot tub, sauna and steam rooms, gym, hair & nail salon for pampering, outdoor tennis courts and over 25 treatment rooms. We changed straight into our swimmers and robes and headed straight to the zen garden....
Followed by a dip in the hydrotherapy pool and a good seeing to in the spa. I am a sucker for a massage so the 40minute neck, back & head massage was fabulous and revitalising. The argan oil used for the massages is by organic British brand Ila, an ancient Sanscrit word for 'Mother Earth'. After the treatment, we stretched out in the spa's relaxation room with a strict silence policy, sipping on a lemon and ginger tea. A beautifully decorated pastel green room with sloped lounge beds, blankets and light streaming through the windows. The Utopia spa is an underground cocoon of calm that you will leave feeling revived and rejuvenated.
Grecian-themed pool with Tuscan arches
Relaxation room in the Utopia Spa
Loosened up, scrubbed and smoothed we gathered for sundowners and dinner at Reflections restaurant It was a warm, balmy evening and our table was perfectly positioned next to the doors backing on to the courtyard. We drank cosmopolitans and enjoyed a delicious three course supper, followed by complimentary truffles and bubbles.
Catch of the day - sea bream with chorizo, squid and grilled peppers
Complimentary handmade white & milk chocolate truffles
After supper we retired to our rooms, slipping into our pj's and had the best night sleep after a blissful day (what is it about hotel beds).
When morning came, a lay in was very much in order...
Followed by a long walk around the grounds and bountiful gardens.
Returning for a dip in the outdoor zen garden hot tub and planning our attack on the breakfast buffet.
Breakfast is complimentary with the room rate, with a buffet of fruit, yogurt, bircher muesli, freshly made croissants & pastries (smelling divine!). Tea, coffee, eggs, full english and vegetarian breakfast can all be ordered and served to your table.
It was the most blissful break in the Sussex countryside and just what the doctor ordered for some very much needed R&R.
Upon checking out, we felt ready to immerse ourself back into the real world after a full body recharge.
Alexander House is one spa break we will remember long after the post-spa glow has faded.
Stay at Alexander House from £185 per person for overnight stay, full use of the spa and hotel facilities, choice of 40 minute spa treatment, £35 per person credit to spend on dinner and full works breakfast. Check the offer out here.
L.P. x