What do you like to do on Monday mornings? Coffee, shower, commute to the office? Same here, for the most part anyway, but if you are inclined to take a little break this summer, or beyond, and fancy being a little bit, well, fancy, then you are in the right place.
On a drizzly June Monday morning in Leeds, my pal and I were feeling rather chipper as we jumped in the car and headed south toward Surrey. We were right to be optimistic as the weather got better the further south we travelled and by the time we reached the historic town of Chertsey it was positively glorious, which was a fantastic result as I was hoping to spend the next couple of days luxuriating by the pool sipping on a G&T!
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Surrey, Foxhills Country Club and Resort offers a perfect blend of luxury and leisure. Established in the 19th century, this prestigious club spans over 400 acres of stunning countryside, providing an idyllic retreat for both relaxation and recreation.
I knew it was going to be rather special as we approached the grand estate along the sweeping drive lined with ancient oak trees.
After a seamless check-in at reception which is housed in the Manor House, we were shown to our room, a beautifully spacious suite comprising a truly enormous bed, a comfortable lounge area with a large sofa, a well-appointed bathroom with a huge bathtub and a separate shower, a walk-in wardrobe and a fantastic array of amenities including mini fridge, coffee machine and tea making facilities. The decor is understated opulence, with plush furnishings in relaxing hues and rich fabrics seamlessly blending classic English charm with contemporary touches, creating a space that is truly inviting. The room also boasts a fantastic patio area complete with a dining set and sun loungers from which we could enjoy incredible views of the sprawling gardens and full-size tennis courts whilst sipping a glass of fizz. Monday was looking up!
We were delighted with our room, however, there are various accommodation options at Foxhills, so whether you are travelling with children, planning a girly spa break, a romantic couples getaway or a golf trip with friends, there is something to suit, you can check out the options here.
Speaking of golf…
Golf Courses For Every Skill Level
At Foxhills Country Club in Surrey, golf enthusiasts of all abilities will discover an exceptional golfing experience tailored to their unique skill levels. Nestled within the club’s expansive and meticulously maintained grounds, the golf courses are designed to challenge seasoned players while also offering a welcoming and enjoyable environment for beginners.
The renowned Longcross Course, with its tree-lined fairways and strategically placed bunkers, provides a formidable test for experienced golfers seeking to hone their skills. This course demands precision and strategic thinking, with each hole presenting its own set of challenges that require thoughtful navigation. The undulating terrain and natural beauty of the course add an extra layer of complexity, making every round an exhilarating adventure.
For those newer to the game or looking for a more relaxed round, the Bernard Hunt Course offers a slightly less daunting but equally engaging experience. Named after one of Britain’s finest golfers, this course combines open fairways with carefully crafted hazards that encourage developing players to refine their techniques without feeling overwhelmed. The layout is designed to promote confidence-building while still providing enough variety to keep things interesting.
In addition to these two championship courses, Foxhills also boasts a nine-hole Manor Course perfect for juniors or those short on time. This shorter course focuses on fundamental skills and is ideal for practice sessions or leisurely rounds with friends and family.
Whether you’re aiming for perfection or just starting out on your golfing journey, Foxhills Country Club ensures that every golfer finds their place amidst its verdant landscapes.
I am not a golfer but I do love a spa…
Unwind At The Spa Facilities And Tennis Courts
Foxhills Country Club offers an unparalleled experience of leisure and recreation, with its spa facilities standing out as an inviting retreat for relaxation and activity. The spa at Foxhills is a sanctuary designed to rejuvenate both body and mind – a serene haven with an ambience that instantly soothes the senses.
The gentle aroma of essential oils permeates the air whilst soothing music lingers on the scented air. With a range of treatments from deep tissue massages to revitalizing facials, each treatment is tailored to meet your specific needs, ensuring a holistic approach to well-being. The spa’s hydrotherapy pool provides therapeutic benefits through its warm waters and massaging jets, perfect for easing muscle tension after an invigorating game on the tennis courts.
There is also a state-of-the-art fitness centre, I’d love to tell you about it, but friends you know me, I went nowhere near…
Tennis Facilities
Speaking of which, Foxhills boasts state-of-the-art tennis facilities that cater to players of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or picking up a racket for the first time, you’ll find well-maintained courts that promise an excellent playing experience. Professional coaches are available for those looking to refine their skills or learn new techniques in private or group lessons. The club also hosts various tournaments and social events throughout the year, fostering a sense of community among members.
Dining at Foxhills
The Fox Dining Rooms
There are various dining options at Foxhills but we opted for The Fox dining rooms, set within an elegant 19th-century mansion, it exudes a timeless charm with its impressive decor and intimate ambience.
The menu is fairly concise (which I rather like) with well-thought-out dishes packed with local and seasonal produce. I chose the grilled mackerel to start, a vibrant dish with beautifully cooked fish served with refreshing watermelon and cucumber gazpacho, an unusual flavour combination but it worked and was incredibly light and fresh. Across the table, my friend opted for homemade broccoli soup served with a rosemary biscuit which she assured me was also very tasty.
I tucked into the smoked feta and beetroot parcel for my entree and it was chef’s kiss! Gooey feta cheese baked in crispy filo pastry with that deep and delicious earthy flavour from the beetroot cutting through the rich salty cheese – I loved this dish and must mention that it was exquisitely presented!
A perfectly cooked Himalayan dry-aged ribeye steak was in order for my guest, smothered in delicious black garlic butter and served with triple-cooked chips, if my meal wasn’t so tasty I definitely would have had food envy!
To finish we shared a cheeseboard because we are both cheese fiends and cannot resist a little fromage!
Oh sorry, did I say to finish, no, we then indulged in some rather potent Irish coffees floated with lashings of cream – can somebody roll us back to room one, please?
And Relax…..By The Pool
Following a hearty breakfast, again in The Fox, where there are multiple options from continental to hot cooked dishes including Full English, Eggs Benedict and Smoked Salmon, we opted for a relaxing day by enjoying the Surrey sunshine from what felt like our own private (and heated) pool surrounded by lush gardens and boasting a plethora of comfortable lounging furniture. The resort boasts a whopping five swimming pools, so there is certainly somewhere to splash about for everyone, from those wanting a ‘proper’ swim to families with children and those like me who want to do basically nothing.
Our room was a 10-second walk from the incredibly inviting Courtyard pool so we spent the day basking in the unusually glorious weather and made the most of the sunshine. It’s quite extraordinary how tired one can become from practising the art of doing nothing, so feeling suitably relaxed if not a little sun poached (I was medium rare), we finished the day off at ‘the ‘Nineteen’, a casual brasserie-style restaurant and bar with golf course views. This place was great, a convivial atmosphere and an extensive menu serving everything from breakfast to burgers and salad to sandwiches, perfect for relaxing after a heavy day of slothing lol.
Would I go Back?
I was VERY sad to leave Foxhills and even though we enjoyed a rather lazy couple of days, there is so much more to experience and I would love to return and try my hand at a little golf or tennis, no doubt I will be notably crap at both!
I have nothing but a plethora of plaudits for Foxhills, it is a beautiful resort with unbelievable facilities, the accommodation is superb, dining options are varied and excellent and the staff are friendly, professional and knowledgeable. I would go back tomorrow and possibly even move in, that’s how good it is. You must go, take the kids, take your partner, your family or your friends, you’ll have a cracking time whatever type of break you book – but you must go! Tell them I sent you.
Words by Joanne Brook-Smith
Foxhills Country Club and Resort – Stonehill Road, Ottershaw, Surrey, KT16 0EL
Contact Foxhills
Tel: 01932 872050
Email: reception@foxhills.co.uk
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