Your Surrey Wedding - Feb/Mar 2019 (Issue 75)

GRAND DESIGNS We showcase some of the region’s oldest properties The beautiful four-star Queen Anne-style country house, Barnett Hill, has always been one of my favourite Surrey wedding venues. Whenever I’ve seen images I’ve swooned over the picture-perfect house and gardens, they’re just completely idyllic. Not thinking I could love this venue any more, the multimillion pound refurbishment has taken this venue to a whole new level, elevating its luxury, boutique hotel status to provide a first-class relaxing getaway and wedding destination. Driving up to the venue is always a pleasure, hidden at the end of a treelined driveway, the house comes in to view, proud yet inviting. The new décor has transformed the entrance into a light and elegant reception space, setting the tone for the rest of the property. Greeted by a warm and friendly receptionist we were keen to see our room. From the stairwells to the hallways, each area of the hotel has been loving renovated with high a design-led finish, yet the charm and character of the original property is as enchanting as before. Our luxurious twin room – I was treating my mum to a night away – was overlooking the gardens and beyond. A view hard to beat the next day as the sun rose and the morning mist dissipated. Contemporary in style, I adored the colour palettes and furnishings used across the hotel, and the bathroom was spacious boasting an inviting large bath and two sinks with vanity mirrors. The original fireplace was still on show, a nod to its history that won’t be forgotten. After relaxing in our suite it was hard to drag ourselves away from such comforts but I’m so glad we did; as dinner in The Oak Room Restaurant was divine. Offering award-winning dining – head chef Lee Young was awarded 2 AA Rosettes – the menu was so tempting it was hard to choose only three courses. But alas, we stepped up to the challenge and finally decide upon, Fried Cod Cheeks (salt cod brandade, garlic and saffron aioli and sea vegetables), Pan Fried Sea Bass (potato and crab cake, spiced lentils, almond and basil pesto), finished off with a Duo of Chocolate Mouse (salted caramel, white and dark chocolate and meringue mushrooms). Each mouthful was as flavoursome as the last, all expertly presented, each course left you eager to try the next. Post-dinner, we were still looking to enjoy our evening so opted for a cheeky tipple in the new 1905 Bar. Again, we swooned over the new décor, and the atmosphere was charming and intimate. Tasting the highly regarded, locally made Silent Pool Gin – my mum’s new favourite – we were ready for bed. After a wonderful night’s sleep, breakfast didn’t disappoint, with a choice of cooked options or continental buffet, we were fuelled and ready to go – it was a shame to check out!  EDITOR LOVES... BARNETT HILL 01483 893 361 | barnetthill.co.uk THEMED VENUES 35