insideKENT Magazine Issue 42 - September 2015 | Page 102

GETAWAYS SPREAD EAGLE HOTEL AND SPA cont. refined. One of the key components of its success is the kitchen's commitment to using quality, locally sourced ingredients from nearby Sussex suppliers. One course to go, and although content, there's no way I was about to turn down dessert on my special day. And good job I didn't as my dark chocolate mousse turned up with more than the promised poached cherries, cherry sorbet and toasted marzipan – yes, it had a personal birthday message on the plate too! A fabulous touch and the ideal way to end what had been the perfect evening. From lunch, afternoon tea, private dining, and seasonal al fresco dining options, to its huge inglenook fireplace, stained glass windows and copper furnishings, there's no denying the restaurant at the Spread Eagle Hotel is the ideal venue for many an occasion. Having retired to my quarters and feeling like I queen, I bedded down for a restful night's sleep in my fitting suite – and restful it was (the bed was so huge I didn't catch sight of my guest until the morning, meaning there was no chance of duvet hogging). Awoken from my slumber by a knock at the door (we'd decided to take full advantage of the 24hour room service), our chosen regal breakfast of smoked salmon and poached eggs, coffee, and a variety of delectable fresh fruit juices was served to us atop a silver tray. I could get used to this! A quick breather later and the complimentary robes were on for a very different, less-lazy reason: we were heading down to the Spread Eagle Spa. A distinct touch to this historic hotel, guests are met by a wooden, Scandinavian-inspired build that houses a Jacuzzi spa pool, sauna, steam room, well-equipped fitness suite, and three idyllic treatment rooms for those seeking the ultimate in wellbeing. Booked up for a little 'me' time, I was happy to be sampling one of the spa's many sought-after treatments. 'Drift Away' promises a 55-minute or 85-minute full body massage; a top-to-toe therapy that uses a dreamy blend of essential 102 oils guaranteed to sooth nerve endings and relax the muscles and the mind. And it certainly did what it said on the tin: rejuvenated and stressfree, I was now suitably ready for the day ahead! Mixing tradition with innovation, the hotel surpassed my expectations and over delivered in its promise to provide matchless style, comfort, unique culinary offerings and first-class service in picturesque surroundings. Packed up and checked out, I waved goodbye to the Spread Eagle Hotel and Spa another year older and another memory up. If it was good enough for Queen Liz, it's good enough for me! The Spread Eagle Hotel and Spa South Street Midhurst West Sussex GU29 9NH 01730 816911 @spreadeaglehs