This cold spell of weather makes me think of the warmth of a fantastic country hotel that I recently discovered  in Midhurst called “The Spread Eagle”. The hotel is part of a small group of luxury hotels that form the Historic Sussex Hotels Group and dates back to the fifteenth century. Walking into the hotel is like being welcomed into a grand private home. Each painting tells a story, and each sofa looks like it’s inviting you to snuggle in for the evening with a good book and a drink. The bedrooms are cosy and individual, and you again feel as though you are being taken through to the guest suite of a friend’s home. The famous Queen’s Suite once played host to Queen Elizabeth I, so this really is a room fit for royalty.
 The hotel bar is the perfect venue to meet for a pre-dinner drink, and by the fireplace is definitely the warmest spot on a freezing day. The hotel restaurant has recently been awarded 2 AA rosettes and has an ambience suited to both a romantic candlelit dinner or raucous Sunday lunch with friends. The chef creates fantastic dishes, often with local produce, and game is very popular; I discovered a taste of rabbit on my visit, so don’t be afraid to experiment! 
The Spread Eagle mixes old and new seamlessly. -To those partial to a ‘country cottage’ style break, it’s perfect. However, if like me you love a pamper day the on-site Aquila Spa ticks all of the boxes. Not only a well equiped gym and numerous beauty treatments, but a gorgeous indoor pool, relaxation area, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. The really good news is that I had the pool to myself on three occasions.
I can not tell you about The Spread Eagle without mentioning the hotel team, as the level of customer service that I received was exceptional. I was really made to feel like an valued guest of the hotel and the same familiar faces always greeted me with a smile. Nothing was too much trouble, and nothing was forgotten, from how many sugars I take in my tea, to my choice of drink at the bar. I was greeted by name each time, and really felt like I was the only guest they had to look after. I’m not exaggerating when I say it was exemplary.
Midhurst is a pretty market town, and it’s easy to spend an afternoon exploring the various shops, and taking a walk over to Cowdary Park and ruins. In the summer polo is played on the lawn, and there is also a good golf course nearby.
The Spread Eagle at Midhurst is the perfect retreat for a romantic winter break, a summer polo weekend, or even a spa break at any time of year. If, like me, the great love of your life has 4 legs, a tail and barks, don’t despair as the hotel is pet-friendly and my dog Elvis received as warm a welcome as I did.
By our resident travelling actuary, Eve Hartridge
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