Escape to the countryside

15 hours ago

2 min read

It may be a long way south of Edinburgh, but for a restorative weekend break, there’s a hotel in West Sussex that could be well worth the journey.

The Woodcote, in the village of Graffham, is set within the South Downs National Park. Most of its rooms have uninterrupted views over the local landscape, of rolling downland and ancient woodlands.

The restaurant focuses on seasonal produce, sourced from local gamekeepers, farms, fisheries, cheesemakers and foragers. Its executive chef, Matt Gillan (formerly of Restaurant Gordon Ramsay in London and Midsummer House in Cambridge) recently launched new menus

The à la carte version features dishes such as green-tea-cured pollock, with mussel velouté, tempura mussels and spiced almonds; and rhubarb tart with vanilla cream, blood orange and rhubarb sorbet. Overnight guests can enjoy croissants with honey from hives within the grounds.

Guests planning a stay in the summer months might like to note that the dining-room doors open onto the garden terrace where the chef fires up the barbecue for lunches in the sun.

In The Woodcote’s bar, guests seeking out traditional cocktails with a twist can expect to find the matcha martini (vodka, sherry, matcha and lavender) on the drinks list, as well as mocktails featuring ingredients picked from The Woodcote’s kitchen garden. The extensive wine list includes local sparkling and rosé wines, as well as a selection of vintage Bordeaux.

While The Woodcote’s food, drink and countryside location tick more than enough boxes for an enjoyable break, there’s also plenty to do for those seeking out a more active getaway.

There are opportunities to play polo, or have a go at clay-pigeon shooting, as well as horse riding, fishing, mountain biking and pottery classes all available locally. Sussex is home to more than 100 vineyards, and the hotel can also arrange a bespoke wine tour, including tutored tasting sessions and a lunch paired with local wines.

Overnight stays start at £200 and the mid-week ‘experience, available on Wednesdays and Thursdays (including room, welcome drink, dinner and breakfast) costs £295 for two people.

www.thewoodcote.com