Foxhills: Where Elegance Meets Family Fun in the English Countryside

During our Mazda MX-5 convertible tour through Surrey’s charming country lanes, we spent a magical night at the splendid Foxhills.

Foxhills is an award-winning haven—a luxurious spa, golf hotel, and exclusive country club nestled in the serene Surrey countryside, just a stone’s throw from London. With three exceptional restaurants, a stylish hotel, three beautifully manicured golf courses, an indulgent spa featuring five swimming pools, and an impressive range of family-friendly activities, it’s a place where surprises await at every turn.

What sets Foxhills apart is its enchanting blend of sophistication and family spirit. It feels like a chic resort in the South of France, where adults relax and unwind while children roam freely, giggling and playing in the expansive gardens.

Our adventure began with a picturesque drive through the verdant golf course to the grand entrance. The driveway offers ample parking and leads to a charming, old-world stone façade, adorned with two exquisitely carved stone dogs that lend an air of timeless elegance.

Our room, No. 5, was perfectly positioned next to one of the outdoor pools, which was blissfully heated to a balmy 26°C. After settling in, we strolled around the sprawling estate, soaking in its many delights. From the elegant clubhouse at the 19th hole to the modern Padel and Pickleball courts, the art studio, and the state-of-the-art gymnasium with both indoor and outdoor pools, there’s no shortage of things to admire. A highlight was the woodland trail along the edge of the property, weaving through the pristine golf courses—a tranquil retreat as the evening light softened and the lanterns glowed warmly.

Returning to our generously appointed suite, we freshened up in the expansive bathroom, accompanied by the delightful treat of a chilled welcome bottle of Prosecco. The suite itself was impressively spacious, with a beautifully designed bathroom that featured both a luxurious walk-in shower and a bath. While the bath was slightly on the shorter side, it was a negligible detail in an otherwise impeccable stay. Making the most of the exclusive guest-only pool, I revelled in the convenience of slipping out in my pristine white dressing gown for a quick, invigorating swim before effortlessly retreating back to the comfort of our suite.

The evening unfolded with drinks at the bar, followed by a sumptuous dinner in The Fox Dining Rooms, a two-AA-Rosette restaurant.

The culinary experience was nothing short of exceptional, a true feast for both the palate and the eyes. To begin, the roasted pumpkin soup was a bowl of autumnal perfection, velvety and rich, complemented by sage and onion tortellini that added a herby depth. Toasted pumpkin seeds provided a delightful crunch, making each spoonful a harmonious blend of textures and flavours. Meanwhile, the cured salmon and trout mosaic was a visual masterpiece, with its delicate layers of vibrant fish enhanced by the subtle earthiness of matcha and the briny freshness of sea herbs. The dish was lifted further by a silky pear and anise purée, adding a hint of sweetness and spice.

For the main course, the butternut squash and sage lattice was a work of art, its golden pastry encasing a medley of chargrilled courgette and a leek terrine, all bathed in a fragrant Provençal sauce that evoked the sun-drenched fields of southern France. Equally exquisite was the Barbary duck breast, cooked to tender perfection and paired with a luscious apricot gel that brought a delicate sweetness to the dish. The cavolo nero added a welcome earthy bitterness, while the spätzle—pillowy and comforting—soaked up the bold, aromatic notes of the Szechuan jus.

To finish, dessert was nothing short of sublime. The creamy blueberry baked cheesecake was decadently smooth, perfectly balanced by a refreshing yoghurt sorbet that provided a tangy counterpoint. Equally indulgent was the warm treacle tart, its buttery richness offset by the subtle sweetness of poached pear and the warm spice of cinnamon ice cream—a comforting, nostalgic end to an unforgettable dining experience.

I savoured a bottle of red wine, expertly recommended by the sommelier after carefully considering my tastes. It was nothing short of sumptuous—beautifully full-bodied with a luxurious, silky-smooth texture that effortlessly caressed the palate. Brimming with rich, woodland flavours, it offered layers of dark berries and earthy undertones, all elegantly rounded off with a delicate whisper of caramel, adding a touch of sweetness to its intricate complexity.

All the dishes were an exquisite balance of flavour and portion size—gourmet dining that left us satisfied yet light on our feet, perfectly complementing Foxhills' ethos of health and vitality. And the atmosphere at dinner was delightful, with children laughing and playing in the gardens even as night fell. It was reminiscent of a lively Mediterranean resort, where family and fun take centre stage, defying the gloomy English winter.

The next morning began with a revitalising swim in the neighbouring pool, followed by a hearty breakfast of indulgent eggs benedict with silky smoked salmon. There’s nothing quite like it to prepare you for a long drive ahead.

Despite the grey weather, Foxhills proved its all-weather charm with such a vast array of indoor and outdoor activities. Foxhills easily wins our ‘Best Family Hotel in England’ award. With acres of space to explore, woodland trails, diverse cafes, and an infectious sense of joy, it’s a playground for all ages. The story of its evolution is equally heartwarming—the CEO, who grew up here after his parents bought the property, has lovingly transformed his childhood paradise into a destination for everyone to enjoy. Bravo, indeed.

Foxhills Spa, Golf Hotel, And Exclusive Country Club
https://www.foxhills.co.uk

Mazda MX-5 Homura
https://www.mazda.co.uk/cars/mazda-mx-5/