Cottesmore Golf Country Club

Dinner in the bar was satisfying, well priced and served without any fuss. I had a few Sharp’s Atlantic IPAs, poured reliably enough to make me want another. I wish my local back home stocked that beer, though my liver may be glad it doesn’t. The staff were generally fantastic, pleasant and helpful. The one exception was the woman at reception during check-in, who seemed to be having a bad day. Luckily, everyone else I met was excellent. The bar and reception both close for the night at 22:30, so there’s no late service or residents’ bar if you want a nightcap. The spa had a good gym, pool, sauna and steam room, though it was very busy, nearly crowded, during my visit. I suspect it was just the timing, and going earlier might have made for a different experience. Room 25, on the first floor, had a corner view over the golf course. The greens rolled away below, with golfers wandering about after their balls. The room was properly exceptional, with a huge bathroom, large shower, generous bath and double sinks. A short hall led to a thoughtfully arranged bedroom with a comfortable sofa, desk and big bed in a little cove. There were plenty of well placed sockets, but I did miss having a proper coffee machine. The instant sachets were usable, just less fitting for such an indulgent room. Getting to the rooms through the beautiful courtyard, with its proud central fountain, set a lovely tone. My stay felt like very good value, and Cottesmore was comfortable and charming without being pretentious. I’d absolutely return and happily take the corner room again.

For an overnight Gatwick layover, Cottesmore was a great choice for my husband and me. We wanted to unwind after our trip, and it had everything we needed. The hotel is only 15 minutes from the airport, yet sits amid nature on a large golf course. We had a lovely dinner at the restaurant with some great beers on tap, then used the health centre’s steam room, sauna and hot tub before it closed at 9pm. Breakfast the next morning was delicious and had plenty of choice. We’d definitely stay again.

It was lovely seeing how happy the staff seemed in their jobs. Everyone I passed greeted me with a hello or good morning before I’d even spoken. The hotel was lovely, and the staff were very helpful.

The venue is beautiful, but there were a couple of things that spoiled my sleep. I’m a light sleeper, and the smoke detector’s bright green light kept shining. Then, at around 4:30 on Saturday morning, I think the grounds staff were working; the engines were loud. It didn’t make for a good start before a long day of driving. I’d ask for a little more consideration for guests at that hour.