If ever there was a time to say it, it’s now. “Ding dong Surrey” – my, you’ve become sexy.
Set amongst 400 acres of lush woodlands and grounds, Beaverbrook is a place of beauty located a mere 18 miles from central London and in-between any cyclist’s dream market towns of Leatherhead and Surrey.
For anyone who is local to the area, who knew this charming house was here the whole time. Well… quite a few actually and especially if you were of the connected sort who loved a party.
This impressive Grade II-listed countryside dwelling was indeed once home to media’s starboy and then owner of the Daily Express newspaper, Lord Beaverbrook. Purchased by the media magnate in 1910, it was refurbished years later into an unrivalled home, property and venue which hosted many-a-lavish party to the world’s luminaries and delights, in addition to the odd wartime conclave, too.
Today, and over eighty years since the death of Lord Beaverbook, the house has been transformed into a luxury hotel and exclusive members club. You only have to look at the hotel’s room names to reveal its dazzling history as a nod to who once stayed at here – including Ian Fleming, Rudyard Kipling and Elizabeth Taylor. Oh, to be a fly on the wall.
The magic of Beaverbrook is truly proven by form of the synergy of its history with the contemporary; all within the beating heart of Surrey. For one, the interiors are sublime. Modern country chic is perfected by interior designer Susie Atkinson within the main house; highly regarded for her work on various Soho House outposts while Nicola Harding of Harding & Read adds her sensational, award-winning touch to The Garden House.
Second, is the achingly cool Art Deco-style Parrot Bar, which will immediately make you weak at the knees (see our opening photograph – phwoar!)
Adjoining is The Dining Room as a super-sexy Japanese restaurant, masterminded by an ex-Nobu chef. All the while, the magnificent Coach House Health Club and Spa is due to open very soon with designs by glass architect Brian Clarke.
It goes without saying, Beaverbrook is impressive. When not lounging in style in one of it’s hotel rooms, the gardens are definitely something to explore with both the house and its tranquil grounds enjoying an Italianate feel. Walk a bit further and you’ll discover The Garden House. Tucked away within a private walled garden, it’s the epitome of English country charm and offers an idyllic dining experience.
With plenty of nooks and crannies to explore and indulge in the senses, we’ll very happily get lost here. Beaverbrook, you had us at hello (to the charming gentleman at the security gate).
Beaverbook, Reigate Road, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 8QX
beaverbrook.co.uk
Photography by Tony Patterson
