South Lodge: A Country House Escape in the Sussex Hills

South Lodge is a luxury country house hotel set on a sprawling 93-acre estate just outside the historic market town of Horsham in West Sussex, and is less than a two-hour drive from London. Its country-house character, award-winning facilities, and stunning countryside setting are what set this luxurious escape apart - and the reason visitors return again and again.

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The History of South Lodge

Built in the late 19th century, South Lodge was once the private family home of Frederick DuCane Godman, a well-known naturalist and co-founder of the British Ornithologists' Union. Godman's family retained the property until 1982, when it was bought by the Pecorelli family and opened as a luxury hotel in 1985. Today, the hotel is still run by the Pecorelli family's Exclusive Collection hotel group.

The Setting

Overlooking the rolling hills of the South Downs, South Lodge continues the legacy of its original owner through its array of nature-led amenities, including a wild swimming pool, a Victorian rockery, kitchen garden, woodland trails and vineyards. Many of the hotel's rooms and suites boast stunning views of the manicured lawns and hills beyond, whilst the view from the indoor spa pool is also quite magical. With 93 acres, there is loads of space to roam around and enjoy the fresh air and tranquility of the estate.

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A Country House Stay with a Modern Edge

Guests can choose from 96 individually designed rooms and suites across the hotel, ranging from intimate rooms to luxury suites and lakeside lodges. For families, there are spacious open-plan suites with two double beds, sitting areas and bathtubs in the Sussex wing, ensuring your stay is as comfortable as possible.

For those travelling with their beloved pets, the dog-friendly Garden Suites open onto beautiful gardens, allowing guests to relax on the patio whilst their dog explores. And if you fancy a good soak in a hot tub, the Hot Tub Suites are perfect for immersing yourself in bubbles and steam as you gaze out at the stunning landscape.

The Reeds Lakeside and Spa Lodges

The Reeds are South Lodge's newest accommodations and, arguably the most enticing due to their design and location. Perched on the edge of a lake, the six contemporary Lakeside Lodges and two Spa Lodges were built in harmony with their surroundings from upcycled and natural materials.

The Lakeside Lodges feature large sundecks overlooking the lake, two separate bedrooms, a lounge with a fireplace and double height windows, a kitchenette, and the cherry on top - an outdoor copper bathtub to enjoy a luxurious soak. Set slightly back from the lake, the Spa Lodges boast the same amenities as the Lakeside Lodges with the added extra of an infra-red halotherapy sauna.  

During the warmer months, you can enjoy a dip in the lake's refreshing waters surrounded by lush greenery, or work on your tan on the sundeck.

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The Spa at South Lodge

The hotel's award-winning 44,000 sq. ft. spa blends in with its natural surroundings and offers a peaceful destination where you can completely switch off and enjoy some downtime. Outside, a vitality hydrotherapy pool surrounded by sun loungers beckons you to unwind in its bubbly waters, whilst the wild swimming pool is ideal for a refreshingly cold dip.

During cooler weather, the 22m x 10m indoor pool is the perfect alternative to outdoor swimming; framed by floor-to-ceiling windows, you can drink in the stunning views of the South Downs while you swim. In addition to the pools, you can work out in the state-of-the-art gym, rejuvenate in the botanical sauna and salt steam room, and pamper yourself with a treatment in one of 14 nature-themed treatment rooms.

After your treatment, wind down in the relaxation lounge and enjoy a healthy meal in the Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, Botanica.

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Dining at South Lodge

South Lodge is home to three award-winning restaurants, the first of which boasts a Michelin star and four AA Rosettes. The Pass, led by head chef Ben Wilkinson, creates delectable seven- and five-course seasonal menus made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Camellia, the hotel's three AA-Rosette restaurant offers a modern British menu featuring fresh ingredients straight from the hotel's kitchen garden, as well as the very best local produce. Patrons can enjoy a meal with a view on the terrace in summer, plus there's a kids' menu for younger guests.

Last but not least, Botanica, the hotel's zero-waste restaurant, serves body and soul-nourishing health-conscious meals in the spa building.

What to Do Near South Lodge Hotel

South Lodge is a great base for exploring all that West Sussex has to offer. The renowned Leonardslee Gardens are 0.6 miles away (a 15-minute walk from the hotel). South Downs National Park is also a must-visit with miles and miles of wide open spaces, ancient woodlands, and dramatic coastline all waiting to be explored and just a 15-minute drive away.

For history buffs, Petworth House and Arundel Castle are around a 30-40-minute drive from the hotel, and families will love Drusillas Park in East Sussex and Bocketts Farm Park in Surrey. Both parks are around a 40-50 minute drive from the hotel, respectively.

In Summary

From country-house rooms and South Downs views to long lunches and slow afternoons at the spa, South Lodge makes a compelling case for staying a little longer. Choose the Lakeside Lodges with their outdoor copper baths for a romantic retreat, or simply settle in for a spa day and a Michelin-starred meal at The Pass. With Gatwick just 20 minutes away by car and London Victoria under an hour by train, it's an easy escape that feels worlds away, whatever the season.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

What is South Lodge known for?

South Lodge is country house retreat in West Sussex, overlooking the South Downs. It's known for its expansive, nature-led spa, Michelin-starred restaurant, The Pass, and beautiful countryside setting.

What is the price of a room at South Lodge?

Room prices start at £438 per night for a Comfy room.

Is South Lodge a 5-star hotel?

Yes, South Lodge is an award-winning 5-star hotel.

How much is a spa day at South Lodge?

A spa day at South Lodge starts from £265 per person.

Does South Lodge have a Michelin star?

South Lodge is home to The Pass, its Michelin-starred restaurant.

Where is South Lodge Hotel?

South Lodge is located in Lower Beeding near Horsham in West Sussex.

Is South Lodge child-friendly?

While South Lodge welcomes families, its atmosphere and amenities are particularly well suited to adults.

Is South Lodge dog friendly?

Yes, South Lodge has a selection of dog-friendly rooms and plenty of grounds for them to explore.

Does South Lodge have a gym?

Yes, South Lodge has a fully equipped gym and fitness classes.

Is South Lodge worth the money?

Yes. South Lodge isn't a budget stay, but there's a lot built into the experience. With 93 acres, an expansive spa, Michelin-starred dining and beautifully designed rooms, the hotel offers a complete countryside retreat rather than just a bed for the night.

Does South Lodge have air conditioning?

South Lodge has air conditioning in select rooms, suites and lodges.

What time does South Lodge spa open?

For hotel residents, spa access is available from 3pm on the day of arrival until 2pm on the day of departure. The spa is open from 6am to 9pm on weekdays, and from 7am to 9pm on weekends.

What time does South Lodge spa close?

The spa at South Lodge closes at 9pm daily.