The lush Surrey countryside is the most wooded county in England with nearly 25% of its land covered in trees. And despite being only a short drive from London it’s like being transported to a world of bucolic serenity, far away from the bustle of city life. Rolling hills and charming towns and villages welcome us as we wend our way along the winding tree-lined lanes.
Our destination is the market town of Haslemere in the heart of the Surrey Hills and The Georgian Coppa Club which stands proudly on the leafy high street. The Georgian is in a Grade II Listed building that has been both a home and a hotel. It opened in its current guise in May 2022 and has been given a modern makeover while also maintaining a stylish, traditional look.
Downstairs there’s plenty of space with the living area broken up into lots of separate snugs and nooks, creating a welcoming and cosy feel. There’s a long, attractive bar with comfy bar stools and the dining room is next door. It’s light-filled and spacious with banquettes and booths, a glass skylight, and plenty of greenery giving a fresh conservatory vibe. The whole effect is one of warmth, relaxation, and belonging, like being wrapped in a soft, invisible blanket.
And this is only magnified as we climb the beautifully carpeted stairs to our stylish room on the top (second) floor. It’s large and modern and decorated in a soothing neutral colour palette with big windows overlooking the high street. There’s a shiny contemporary bathroom complete with fabulous Fig and Vanilla toiletries from Natural Spa Factory. And one of the nooks includes a tea and coffee station with a large kettle and proper mugs for making them in. Everything we need for a comfortable stay.
After some relaxation and an invigorating shower, we head downstairs for dinner. The Coppa Club restaurant serves a seasonal menu of modern British and Mediterranean classics. Service is friendly and welcoming and the food is superb. We start with sublime salmon carpaccio, and succulent Catalan prawns and progress to satisfying pasta dishes. All pastas are available in small or large portions, so you’ll be happy no. matter what your appetite. A creme brulee of perfection makes the perfect ending to our dinner before we amble back upstairs to our sanctuary.
In the morning, feeling refreshed, we head back to the dining room for breakfast. The menu is comprehensive and inventive, with a lot to be pondered. The cooking is flawless – poached eggs to dream of, the coffee is excellent and again there’s service with a smile. The Georgian Coppa Club delivers on every level.
Find out more about The Georgian Coppa Club
Words by Sandy Cadiz-Smith