Lucy Daltroff gets some much needed R &R on her visit to The Norton Park Hotel Spa and Manor Estate in Hampshire
Visiting the 4 star Norton Park Hotel Span and Manor House my first thought was how impressive the drive was from the front gate to the hotel entrance. So, it came as no surprise to learn that the grounds cover 54 acres, including a walled garden and a lake.
The hotel nestles in a wonderfully green part of Hampshire, offering an escape from the clamour of city life, without quite falling into the category of remote, as it is just 17 miles from the historic city of Winchester.
Why I like it is that it is a venue that really provides what is needed for a relaxing break, with a health club, spa, lovely restaurant, as well as walking routes around the grounds.
Norton Park Hotel, part of the Qhotels Collection, has 151 bedrooms in the modern wing of the house. These range from “Classic” to “Deluxe”, “Superior” and “Suites”. It is also possible to book a feature room, furnished in 16th century style which reflects the hotel’s origins.
I took full advantage of my “Superior” spacious room, complete with its Nespresso coffee machine a selection of complimentary drinks from the fridge (from wine to soft drinks) and a huge, extremely comfortable, bed, ensuring a terrific night’s sleep.
The original Manor house built in the 16th century is now a self-contained venue in the grounds with 13 boutique-style bedrooms, great for wedding parties or the like (I wish I had known about it for my recent milestone birthday party)! There are two cosy lounge areas, a dining room and a well-equipped shaker-like kitchen.
An original 17th Century barn provides a perfect place for a wedding ceremony before the guests move into the Norton Suite for dancing.
Although I didn’t use it on this trip, there is a fully equipped gym and personal trainers available, often to push guests sometimes literally, to go that extra mile. When not sweating it out on the treadmill, it is possible to enjoy a few laps in the heated indoor pool or relax and unwind in the sauna and steam room. I enjoyed all three but was not brave enough to take advantage of the ice pile to help me cool down.
The extensive range of spa treatments use Elemis products and range from the Frangipani body wrap to the Jessica Gel Pedicure. The spa also works with the Amethyst Trust by offering specialist massages and facials to those affected by cancer.
I was lucky to have really good, experienced, Gabriella, to give me a facial and a relaxation massage. After a stressful week it was most gratefully received.
Then there were the many food options. The offerings at breakfast were varied and included a full English, although to my mind the hash browns were not crispy enough. Tea options include traditional afternoon teas from £25 pp. The lounge and bar serve lighter meals and snacks and there is also full room service menu. All this was good but our evening meal in the Scenic Restaurant was outstanding
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The restaurant is undoubtedly one of The Norton Park Hotel’s highlights. You could easily spend an entire evening eating slowly and enjoying each course as it comes. The menu offers a fine selection of modern British cuisine, with a nod to seasonal ingredients. The sort of food that feels indulgent but not rich. The service, too, is good with constant attention without being over fussy.
My first course was a good choice. Smoked mackerel served with a creamy celeriac remoulade, gooseberry chutney and a slice of rye bread. The fillet steak with a red wine jus was extremely tasty as were the thick cut chips that accompanied it along with the salad leaves. The selection of desserts included the excellent apple crumble tart served warm, with a side of blackberry compote and vanilla custard. Really good , tasty comfort food.
The whole experience of being away, reminded me of being in a country estate that looks as if it might be part of a film set. Although I never did see Mr D’arcy in his dripping shirt emerging from a swim in the lake, it was interesting to hear that the nearest village, Sutton Scotney, was once the home of J Arthur Rank, perhaps the most important man in the history of the British Cinema.
Tell me more about the Norton Park Hotel, Spa and Manor House
Norton Park Hotel Spa and Manor House, Sutton Scotney, Winchester SO21 3NB.
T: 01962 763 000.
An overnight stay costs from £123 for two sharing a Classic Double Room, including breakfast.
