Grayshott Spa is situated in 47 acres of Surrey countryside, surrounded by National Trust land. With new owners in 2005, it’s very much a spa with hotel rather than a hotel that offers a spa, as so many imitators do.
Grayshott’s a smart, friendly place and not a bit stuffy. The first thing that hits you when you enter the reception area is the sight of people wandering around in white towelling robes. Other spas keep their activity quite separate from the hotel; here it is so seamless you can’t notice the join.
Rooms
Our superior room was clean and spacious. The wardrobe was fairly small, but for a short stay it sufficed. A remote control air conditioner unit meant you could adjust the temperature to suit. Two flat screen TVs was perhaps overkill. The bathroom had his and her sinks, a shower with separate spray attachment and a bath. It was newly decorated and immaculate. I would have liked a magnifying mirror. The smaller rooms have no bath.
Lounge
The lounge area was welcoming and comfortable with homely sofas and chairs arranged in groups and a large supply of books, current magazines and board games.
Bar
Named Bubbles, the bar was lacking in fizz when we visited. It had a counter that was too high, preventing guests from sitting at it and so lacking the atmosphere of a real bar; no optics were visible either. For a health spa, the non-alcoholic drinks were surprisingly limited and unimaginative.
Restaurant
The restaurant area comprised two adjoining rooms, which lent a more intimate feel than one big room. Richly carpeted and with linen cloths on the tables, it had a cosy feel to it. Breakfast and lunch is buffet service and dinner consisted of a choice from a small selection. Service was very attentive. Sparkling or still water is included in the price of your meal, which was a nice touch.
Activities
Various activities, indoor and outdoor are available almost hourly, including a guided walk. As well as films, talks on interesting subjects are held in the cinema every night and, as one might expect, there are regular showings of selected films.
Solo visitor
It’s a good place to come if you are on your own; there is a “sharers” table in the dining room and single supplements for the bedrooms are not unreasonable.
Headley Road , Grayshott, UK
Contact tel: +44 (0)1428 602000
Cost standard double room: ££££
Services spa, swimming pool, fitness equipment, parking, hotel restaurant, hotel bar
Useful links
Grayshott Spa, Surrey
