Wotton House Hotel Review: A Historic Escape with Serene Gardens In Surrey
Wotton House Hotel
Located in the heart of Surrey’s rolling hills, Wotton House Hotel offers a serene retreat wrapped in the elegance of an old English estate. As soon as you approach the grand facade of the hotel, it’s clear that this place is steeped in history.
Wotton House boasts a rich past dating back to 1086, first recorded in the Domesday Book as the Manor of Wotton. Initially a Jacobean mansion owned by Earl Harold and valued at £7.50, it covered about 4,000 acres, featuring seven farms and numerous workers. Over the centuries, it changed hands multiple times, including ownership by Sir David Owen, a nephew of King Henry VII. In 1579, George Evelyn acquired the estate and found success in gunpowder manufacturing, leading to a large family with 16 sons and 8 daughters, making Wotton House a lively family home.
The manor also served as the family seat of John Evelyn, the renowned diarist and scholar. His father, Richard, a dapper gentleman known for his role as High Sheriff, employed an impressive staff of 116 servants, all adorned in exquisite green livery featuring satin doublets and hose, embellished with white feathers and silver braid. While Wotton House has changed ownership several times, it remains under the stewardship of the Evelyn family today, now encompassing approximately 4,600 acres.
Today, it stands as an idyllic country house hotel, marrying period charm with modern-day comforts. While Wotton House may need a little TLC in places, it remains an excellent choice for those seeking value for money and a quintessential English experience.
Our first impression was the long, rolling drive lined with stunning trees. As we arrived, we were greeted by sprawling grounds and a warm, friendly welcome from the staff. The gardens at Wotton House are truly a highlight, featuring intricately designed landscapes, historical temples, and Roman-style pillars that add to the estate's grandeur.
Upon entering, the reception area struck a perfect balance between the opulence of a bygone era and modern comforts. The architecture, rich in character, instantly transported us back in time, while the warmth of the staff made us feel right at home.
Once we checked in, we were led to our suite up a grand set of ornate stairs. The bedroom was spacious, featuring a twin-pillar bed that gave it a stately feel. The bed itself was not only a visual centrepiece, but it also promised and delivered a night of deep, restful sleep. The hotel’s attention to detail shone through, from the plush, soft pillows in a range of firmness levels, catering to every sleeper’s preference, to the warm, cosy “UK flag” blanket draped on the Chesterfield sofa, which my mother-in-law humorously quoted from James Bond as “Think of England.”
The suite boasted a large en suite bathroom complete with a free-standing bath that was a perfect spot for a long, relaxing soak. Additionally, there was a generously sized walk-in shower, and the en suite dressing room featured Victorian maritime packing cases for a touch of vintage authenticity. The thoughtful decor throughout the suite was a nod to Wotton House’s heritage. The Victorian stand-up mirror was a beautiful touch, as was the charming old-world map of the area that hung above the bed.
The oak wood floors, softened by V-patterned carpets, added to the overall feeling of warmth and cosiness, while modern amenities such as a big-screen TV that swung out from the wall ensured we didn’t miss out on any creature comforts. As it was a special anniversary the staff had thoughtfully set out a bottle of welcome bubbly and a handwritten note alongside some chocolates, a personal touch that added a sense of occasion. Plus the romantic touch of red rose petals strewn across the bed was a sweet gesture that made us feel all the more pampered.
One of the most endearing qualities of Wotton House is its ability to balance old-world charm with contemporary touches. For instance, the lovely little fridge filled with water in our room and the small but significant gestures like complimentary toiletries were thoughtful touches.
Dining at Wotton House is a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Like many restaurants post-Covid, the menu has been streamlined, but this in no way compromised the quality of the dishes. Each plate was thoughtfully prepared and beautifully executed.
I opted for the succulent mackerel, beautifully paired with compressed melon and aromatic ground chorizo, served on a delightful bed of horseradish crème fraîche. This bold and exciting combination burst with rich flavours that were pleasantly surprising. My companion chose the honey-cured salmon, accompanied by pickled cucumber, creamy lime yoghurt, mint, and a vibrant rocket pesto. It was perfectly cooked and deliciously delicate, providing a lovely contrast to the vibrant notes of my dish. The emphasis on quality over quantity was a wise and commendable choice.
For the main course, I selected the indulgent pork and apricot confit belly, paired with rich black pudding, crispy crackling soil, apricot textures, and a luscious cider jus. Emily opted for the glazed cod loin, featuring poached mullet shellfish mayo, fragrant lemongrass-scented baby leeks, burnt shallot shells, chia, and pumpkin soil. Just writing this is making my mouth water!
Both dishes were beautifully presented and packed with flavour. The simplicity of the menu allowed the freshness and quality of the ingredients to really shine through, making each bite satisfying. The emphasis on high-quality, well-executed dishes was clear.
When it came to dessert the menu featured just three options, but what they offered was delightful. Each dessert was thoughtfully crafted and enjoyable, providing a sweet and satisfying end to our meal.
This was all washed down with an excellent bottle of Angus The Bull Cabernet Sauvignon from Central Victoria, Australia. Bursting with vibrant black fruits and indulgent dark chocolate notes, it offered a beautifully rich body that was both full and velvety.
Wotton House exudes a distinct charm that sets it apart from your average hotel stay. Its historical significance is evident in every corner, from the ornate woodwork to the carefully preserved details that whisper stories of the past. Despite its grandeur, the hotel manages to create a welcoming, intimate atmosphere that doesn’t overwhelm. The hotel's public spaces, such as the library and lounge, invite guests to linger and soak in the surroundings.
In the morning, we enjoyed a delightful stroll through the hotel’s expansive grounds, one of its main attractions. With beautifully manicured gardens, a historic Roman temple, and a charming grotto, there’s a wealth of sights to explore. The gardens create a perfect setting for a leisurely walk, while the tranquillity of the surroundings offers an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The estate's rich historical significance is palpable, and wandering through the grounds allowed us to fully appreciate the property’s heritage.
Additionally, the hotel boasts a range of excellent amenities, including a fully equipped fitness centre and an inviting indoor pool, perfect for guests looking to maintain their active lifestyle during their stay. The serene surroundings create an ideal atmosphere for relaxation, whether you choose to unwind by the poolside or indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment.
The Wotton House Leisure Club further also offers a variety of engaging studio classes, including yoga, pilates, spin, and Tai Chi. Whether your goal is to enhance flexibility, build strength, or simply discover your inner peace, there’s a class for everyone. This combination of fitness and tranquillity makes Wotton House the ideal destination for rejuvenation and well-being.
And last but not least, they’re more than just dog-friendly—they offer a luxurious Pooch Paradise Package!
No need to leave the dog at home, pining for you, bring your four-legged friend along for the perfect getaway in a picturesque countryside retreat. With vast fields and scenic trails, your dog will have plenty of space to roam and enjoy the great outdoors. Upon arrival, your dog will be welcomed with their very own cosy bed, food and water bowls, and a selection of delicious treats. Breakfast is included for both you and your furry companion, and can be enjoyed in our dog-friendly bar area. Relax and unwind, knowing your pet is just as pampered as you are!
Wotton House Hotel, with its unique blend of history, charm, and comfort, offers a memorable escape from the everyday. From the beautifully appointed suite to the rich history of the estate, staying at Wotton House feels like stepping into a living piece of English heritage. Moreover, the staff were consistently friendly and helpful, ensuring that every need was met during our visit. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a quiet retreat, or simply a place with character and history, Wotton House provides an experience that's hard to forget.
