One of England’s most cherished treasures is its grand estates in the countryside. A place where the well-to-do once lived away from the big city in their stately homes surrounded by vast farms, parklands, and well-coiffed gardens. One could imagine their lives like an episode of Bridgerton spending their carefree days festooned in their nattily dressed attire while planning for the next event on the high society calendar or perhaps tomorrow’s afternoon tea.  Throughout England, these castle-like manors are still there, just as grand as they once were, owned by aristocrats, nobles, and the uber-rich. For those of us who may not have the wherewithal to own such a property, there is still a way to experience a taste of the British aristocratic lifestyle with a stay at a manor house such as the Nutfield Priory, in beautiful Surrey countryside.

Located in the picturesque Surrey countryside, Nutfield Priory stands as a testament to the rich architectural and cultural heritage of England. Its stunning Gothic Revival architecture, luxurious accommodations, world-class spa facilities, and fine dining experiences make it an ideal retreat for those seeking both relaxation and a touch of history.  The country manor house offers its guests a refuge from the manic pace of London or an ideal side trip for those from far away visiting the area.  The surrounding grounds provide a picturesque backdrop, with landscaped gardens and gorgeous views over the Surrey Hills, one of England’s protected and preserved Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Nutfield Priory is a part of the Hand Picked collection of country house hotels. The hotel group offers a portfolio of 21 country house hotels and spa resorts, each with a distinguished blend of history, luxury, and modern amenities. The properties are spread across the United Kingdom and the Channel Islands and include countryside retreats, coastal escapes, or island getaways.

Nutfield Priory’s history dates back to the mid-19th century when it was originally a private residence. The priory was commissioned by Thomas Fowler Wood, a wealthy industrialist who sought to create a home that reflected both his status and his love for Gothic architecture. The design of the building was inspired by the Palace of Westminster, a renowned example of Gothic Revival architecture. Nutfield Priory exemplifies this style with its pointed arches, intricate stonework, and large windows.

The exterior of the building is adorned with ornate carvings and detailed masonry including eagles and gargoyles, showcasing the craftsmanship of the period.  The result is a structure that combines the grandeur of a medieval castle with the comfort and sophistication of a Victorian mansion.

One of Nutfield Priory’s most impressive features is its scenic views. The  Victorian mansion is built atop a hill set within 40 acres of parkland with magnificent vistas over the South Downs. The gardens and grounds of Nutfield Priory are another highlight of the property, offering guests the chance to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the Surrey countryside. The beautifully landscaped gardens provide a tranquil setting, with manicured lawns, flower beds, and a variety of trees and shrubs.

Within the estate, guests can enjoy a range of leisure activities, including tennis and walking trails. The trails offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside, providing the perfect opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Inside, Nutfield Priory continues to impress with its elegant and meticulously designed interiors. The high ceilings, detailed woodwork, and grand staircases and walls adorned with rich paintings create an atmosphere of opulence and sophistication. The attention to detail in the design is evident in every room, from the spacious drawing rooms to the cozy lounges as well as the library with tombs of leather-bound books and spaces to read or perhaps enjoy afternoon tea.

The Grand Hall at Nutfield Priory is its most impressive space that exemplifies the grandeur of the property. One of the most striking features of the hall is its magnificent stained-glass windows, which cast colorful, intricate patterns of light across the room, enhancing its medieval atmosphere. These windows are complemented by an impressive organ that stands as a focal point within the hall.

There are 60 bedrooms and suites at Nutfield Priory, ranging from rooms to expansive suites named after the UK’s literary masters including Austen, Orwell, Hardy, and Kipling.  As the hotel has been repurposed from a private home, school, and other purposes, the accommodations are unique in layout and design such as the Byron in the tower which is spread over three floors. Many are situated to take full advantage of the commanding views over the Surrey and Sussex countryside.

The rooms and suites at Nutfield Priory are individually decorated, each with its own unique character and charm. You’ll find many with sleigh or four-poster beds, high-back chairs, and stunning artwork.   The rooms are equipped with modern amenities as well, including flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, and plush bedding.

One indulgent amenity that guests love is the complimentary drinks and snacks that are offered in the suites including a half-bottle of Champagne, Espresso Martini and Cosmopolitan cocktails, chocolate fudge, and shortbread biscuits.

Dining at Nutfield Priory is a culinary experience that combines exquisite cuisine with an elegant setting. The hotel’s fine dining restaurant, The Cloisters, is renowned for its gourmet cuisine and impeccable service. The restaurant is set in a beautiful, vaulted dining room that adds to the sense of occasion.

Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes, from classic British fare to international cuisine, all expertly crafted by the hotel’s talented chefs. The menu features a range of dishes made from locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, each carefully prepared to showcase the flavors and textures of the ingredients. The Cloisters also offers an extensive wine list, featuring wines from around the world, carefully selected to complement the dishes on the menu. The combination of delicious food, fine wine, and elegant surroundings ensures a memorable evening.

The guests will find an impressive wine list at the Nutfield Priory as well. The wine cellar is a result of a thoughtful curation by Hand Picked Hotel’s Head of wine, Louise Gordon.  Louise oversees the wine portfolio across the 21 Hand Picked Hotels, as the business drives its focus on offering guests the highest quality food and drink.  Her vision is to create a wine offering that stands apart for its unique wine offerings that are diverse and sustainable and are only available with a meal at a Hand Picked Hotels property.

One of the highlights of a stay at Nutfield Priory is the world-class spa facilities. The spa facilities include a sauna, steam room,  and a 40’ indoor swimming pool. The spa and workout center is also a members club for local residents with a large, well-equipped gym, fitness classes, weight room, squash court, and a spinning studio as well as a café.

The Elemis spa at Nutfield Priory offers a range of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate the body and mind. Guests can indulge in a variety of massages, from Swedish and deep tissue to hot stone and aromatherapy, each tailored to meet individual needs. Skilled therapists use high-quality products to ensure that each treatment is both effective and enjoyable. In addition to massages, the spa offers facials, body wraps, and other wellness therapies, all designed to promote relaxation and well-being.

There’s nothing like a stay in the country. It allows us to recharge ourselves after being drained down from the hectic pace of city life. When you add to that a stay that offers a taste of aristocratic life, it’s a holiday that most will thoroughly enjoy.   Nutfield Priory, with its intoxicating setting in the beautiful Surrey countryside, noble design, luxurious accommodations, and fine wine and dining experience is a destination that delivers all of that and so much more as well as a stay in the country that will leave you thoroughly rejuvenated.