Last weekend I was reluctantly dragged to Nutfield Priory. I’d gathered that it was a luxury country house hotel in Surrey and the ‘perfect weekend break’ according to my mother. This Easter, known to all Year 11 students as the final weeks of cramming before GCSEs, was going to be stressful. I was doubtful as to how much I’d get done, convinced I’d be easily distracted and conveniently forget about revising. However, by the end of the weekend, I didn’t want to leave.
Driving past the grey houses and traffic lights, this luxury castle shaped hotel felt a million miles away. Yet as we escaped further into the countryside and turned the last corner, there it stood. The high turrets coupled with an overwhelmingly beautiful stain glass window, immediately transported me from daily life. Inside, the features proved to be just as delicate and ornate with a grand red staircase dominating the hallway, an original organ, fireplaces and exquisite portraits hung around the hotel. The atmosphere was tranquil, complimenting picturesque countryside landscape. Its calming aura was infectious.
Any previous revision fears were forgotten, and I had no choice but to buckle down and work. However, those who had no exams to fret over were equally stimulated. Nutfield Priory offered a range of activities as my family soon discovered, including nature walks to Box Hill and across the Surrey Downs. A sports centre, complete with a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, gym and a squash court, kept my brother busy most of the day. A spa and nail salon were also available, offering treatments from facials to stone therapy. We were spoiled for choice for dinner as although the hotel provided their own restaurant and bar, Reigate, a historic market town was just a short drive away and we spend each evening choosing between Wagamama, Bills or Carluccios.
This easily accessible hotel had a balance of activities suiting every member of the family. The peaceful atmosphere and enchanting views both inside and out, were revitalising and refreshing. I would thoroughly recommend Nutfield Priory for a weekend break and I’ll be sure to revisit myself soon.
Ishana Seward, Sutton High School
