Although it’s situated close to Gatwick Airport, this grand and enchanting Elizabethan manor feels a world away from the London rat race, surrounded by 1,000 acres of green fields, forests and its own gorgeous gardens (designed by Victorian horticulturist William Robinson).
Inside, it’s a picture of cosseting luxury, with a stunning glass-panelled dining room that overlooks the luscious gardens at the heart of things. A pea green and crisp white colour scheme lends itself to the ‘bringing the outside in’ vibe, while the garden also plays a key role in the kitchen team’s year-round efforts. Throughout the year, produce from the garden is harvested and used to drive and inspire The Dining Room’s seasonally-changing menus.
When it comes to the food, you can expect stunningly creative and “utterly delicious” Michelin-starred seasonal assemblages ranging from the likes of roasted creedy carver duck with baby beetroots, buckwheat, honey and hen of the woods, to loin of south coast haddock served alongside lettuce, broad beans, peas, pickled elderflower and gin.
Following that, what could be more tempting than a blackcurrant soufflé or strawberries topped with garden herbs and ruby chocolate. If you’d rather a liquid dessert, Gravetye’s wine list is a real aristocrat, with fine pedigree on every page, and the place also earns bonus points for its “impeccable service, warm ambience and very clever cocktails”.
If you’re not stopping by for dinner, there are plenty of other opportunities to visit The Dining Room. Guests can also enjoy a three-course lunch menu, a hearty Sunday roast or even pop by for a resolutely traditional take on that oh-so-British pastime of afternoon tea. Gravetye’s wine list meanwhile is a real aristocrat, with fine pedigree on every page, and the place also earns bonus points for its “impeccable service, warm ambience and very clever cocktails”.