East Sussex National Hotel, Golf Resort and Spa Review

What an absolute treat to be invited to stay at the East Sussex National Hotel, Golf Club and Spa this January, writes reviewer Kelly Thomas.  

These dark days did nothing to stop a thoroughly enjoyable evening and stay at this warm and friendly hotel.

Just the drive up to the hotel has a real sense of elegance, with a long winding grand driveway up to the huge main hotel building. 

Although the reception was exceptionally large and open plan, the staff still tailor a friendly arrival with a warm welcome and a simple booking in process. Connie on reception that day deserves a special mention as she could not have been more helpful and a sign of what great customer service looks like. 

We were directed to an Executive Club Double Room, which was so spacious as to almost be a suite on its own. We had a spectacular view over the South Downs and the beautifully manicured golf course.  A small private balcony was a wonderful surprise, especially in the morning with a perfect view of the sunrise.

Impeccably clean, we used the free ESPA toiletries to get ready for our evening. Fortunately we had enough time for pre-dinner drinks in the Sussex Lounge, an impressive looking bar spacious enough to find a quiet corner yet still soak up the chilled atmosphere. We indulged in some lovely gin from their extensive Gin Menu, I chose the Mermaid Gin which was a thoroughly refreshing aperitif.

We were very pleased to learn our dinner was booked in The Pavilion Restaurant, an AA two rosette restaurant. The staff, from the outset, were attentive and friendly, without unnecessary or ill-timed interventions, which is quite a skill in itself. The menu was a range of local and classical dishes and there was plenty to choose from.

I chose scallops with roasted fennel, green tea and apple puree and pickled cucumber to start, which was simply divine, and in perfectly appropriate portions to prepare for the main. I also chose fish for my main course, that being cod in crab risotto, chorizo bhaji and tender stem broccoli. We paired with a crisp white wine and enjoyed every mouthful. A winter’s night out is not complete without a warm dessert for which I chose the sticky toffee pudding, which was again perfectly sized and flavoured to finish the meal off nicely.

We headed back to the Sussex Bar and after an unrushed whiskey we headed off to bed and sank into the deep, clean sheets for an uninterrupted sleep.

In the morning, we got up early and set off to check out the Horsted Health Club and Spa. Whilst we did not choose to have any treatments, a quiet hour in the 20 metre heated indoor swimming pool, followed by a soak in the Jacuzzi and a quick sauna and steam had us ready for breakfast.  We did not have time to use it, but we checked out the gym opposite and noticed ample running/step/rowing machines and a fully equipped free weights area, great for anyone wanting a workout before (or after) any busy work day.

Finally, we headed off to breakfast and for me, this was a real highlight.  We were lucky enough to be blessed with a sunny day and so looking out across the South Downs from The Pavilion restaurant was so uplifting. The breakfast buffet selection was exceptional. All the usual hot and cold breakfasts were served but firstly, the hot food was actually hot, a rarity in many hotels, and also, a personal favourite of mine, they offered a pancake making machine! There was a very wide selection of coffees and fruit juices and we were thoroughly stuffed by the end of it.

We were only there for 24 hours but it was just the tonic we needed as a pick me up in the dark cold days of January. Our only regret is that we did not stay for longer. Having checked online, I noticed there are various deals throughout the year, the next one being Valentine’s Day, and I have no hesitation in highly recommending a booking for a short mini break as an ultra-special treat.

For further information, visit https://www.eastsussexnational.co.uk/