Stop 2 : Selsdon Park

Stop two on the Principal Hayley Challenge saw us stay for one night at the Selsdon Park Hotel & Golf Club.

Perfectly located for a one night-er being just thirteen miles from London. So great way to spend a weekend! What did surprise us was how green the area around was, it really felt peaceful and Selsdon Park itself has it’s own 18-hole golf course. On our arrival the grey skies and drops of rain hadn’t stopped play and we took a wander to see keen golfers doing the rounds.

Set in 205 acres of land we had a great walk around, saw a deer and investigated the outdoor pool (though a bit cold for a dip!). The building itself is what can only be described as grand, and interestingly we found pictures of how the building was originally and showed the parts that have been extended. But the whole building has a great feel to it and all in-keeping with the original designs.

Before checking in we went to nearby Hever Castle. Where heavens opened and we got drenched!! Ideally would have liked a nicer day but still was able to enjoy the exhibitions and the gardens. And best of all was the water maze, which has a few shocks for people trying to beat it! Be prepared and wear your rain mac! Really good fun and great for all ages.

When we came in check in we had a lovely welcome from Juliette on reception who actually knew who we were. So news of the Principal Hayley Challenge has spread, we are famous!!

We stayed in an executive twin room overlooking the green of the golf course, framed and emphasized beautifully by the huge window which made the room bright and inviting. We had robes and slippers waiting for us, which went on straight away – felt right at home! The room was a great size with two single beds comfortably fitting and still room for chairs, bed side cabinets and adequate sized wardrobe. The room was not modern in décor but was clean, well looked after, warm and inviting. The dining hall is also worth mentioning as the room itself is tunning with high ceilings and beautiful coving detail. Fitting then that the hotel seems popular for events and weddings. During our stay the hotel was heaving with guests for a college dance, a conference and a wedding. We were lucky enough to be sitting in reception to see the wedding party come out of the ceremony and trail past us to their drinks reception. It was like being part of the wedding, without having to buy a posh frock!!

As part of our relaxing weekend we went on down to the spa on the hotel grounds, in our robes and slippers! The pool is great and would be really inviting to kids too. There are steps leading to a platform almost like an island where you can chill out on a lounger. Or there are tables along the edge for guests to sit at. Armed with magazines we spent a good hour just chilling out and watching the families enjoying the pool. Deciding to enjoy the spa facilities we headed up to the steam room and sauna. We would say that the hotel could improve the standards of the spa facilities to bring them in line with the high standard of the rest of the hotel.

Back to the room we got ready and then headed out to The Cock Inn at Headley for a great meal. Car would be needed in this area to get around the Surrey Hills but it seemed there were plenty of things around to see and do.

Then, unfortunately I woke up early Sunday morning with a fever and so we had to cut our trip short…but not before indulging in the complimentary breakfast. Buffet style served up in the large dining hall mentioned above, there is a great choice of fresh and cooked foods to choose from. The staff were attentive and gave us top ups of coffee as and when we needed it. We were sat at a table overlooking the golf green and luckily the sun was shining making the view even more appealing. Our plan had been to head to Thorpe Park – just a short drive away from the hotel. So, we didn’t quite manage that but definitely would stay here again and use it as a base from which to head out on day trips.