REVIEW: The Spread Eagle in Midhurst
As soon as you set foot into the Spread Eagle, you’re thrust over 500 years back in time. The original rooms are still as they were, and the beautiful building has not lost any of its character. I was invited to stay at the Spread Eagle in Midhurst for a night, and to experience all of their incredible amenities and facilities.
From the moment we entered the building, we knew this was something very special. Each of the thirty-nine bedrooms harbours a small piece of history, with charm and character in every corner. Located in the Sussex market town of Midhurst, the Spread Eagle is filled with history, warmth and uniqueness. We stayed in the Queen’s Suite, which has a stunning carved four-poster bed, separate sitting room and luxurious bathroom.
It’s also home to the oldest surviving wig closet, and is where Queen Elizabeth the first herself once used to change her wigs and wave to the people of Midhurst out of the very room we stayed in. The four-poster bed was the majestic centrepiece of the bedroom, surrounded by timeless classical pieces such as armchairs, a dresser table and ornate lamps.
The bathroom is decked out with a sumptuous claw bath, that provides an incredibly relaxing evening with the provided TempleSpa goodies! If you’re feeling peckish, home-made cookies and tea and Nespresso coffee pods are available in the room for use whenever tickles your fancy.
We visited the award-winning spa, where we tried out the ‘Soul Retreat’ treatment, which included a foot massage and exfoliation, upper body massage and face mask. Needless to say, we were very relaxed by the end of it. We then hopped into the heated pool, and enjoyed watching the sun stream in through the decorative wooden panels that surround the pool.
The Spread Eagle Hotel and Spa also has a state of the art gym, conservatory, a lounge bar with crackling fire logs and absolutely delicious food. We dined at their in-house restaurant, and were blown away by the fresh produce, tasty food and wonderful service. They even had a map of where they source their local produce. If you visit, I’d definitely recommend the sea bass and the pear crumble – make sure to get the matching desert wine as it will change your life.
After a sleep fit for a queen(s), we woke up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated and like we were on the set of princess diares. The bed is not only extremely decadent, but also redefines comfort. We headed downstairs to the restaurant where breakfast was served, and immediately were met with fresh coffee, juices and tea. On the table was a beautiful spread of continental breakfast, including a pina colada salad, watermelon and feta and fresh baked apples with crumble.
There was also a hot breakfast option, and we both opted for fresh scrambled eggs and smoked salmon, and finished with sharing the waffles. The food was so delicious, we were absolutely stuffed by the time we finished.
I’ve been fortunate to stay at a lot of beautiful places over the last two years, but I don’t think anything will ever top the Spread Eagle in Midhurst. The combination of the incredible history, attentive and kind staff, luxurious facilities and stunning interiors (and exterior) created a very special home away from home.
If you’re looking for a romantic weekend away or want to explore more of beautiful England, then go ahead and book a night or two at the Spread Eagle… in the Queen suite if you can nab it! You can see prices here, and I’d recommend going for the all inclusive package including dinner, breakfast and a spa voucher!
** Though the experience was a press trip, all words and opinions are my own.**