I used to work here..........a long time ago... But this is where I met my (current ;0) boyfriend and we still obviously have a certain connection to that hotel. Our anniversary was due. I arranged a whole "back-to-the-roots" trip, including the Nutfield Priory Hotel as well (obviously) . The reception staff was completely new and they didnt know us, but I was shocked by the attitude of the receptionist when we did the check-in. No: how are you, how was your trip? Nothing! That was strange, cause the reception team used to be much more attentive and friendlier. (Later on I found out why he was so grumpy, but think he should have kept his personal problems to himself..) Anyway, we went to our room, all rooms are refurbished and are stunning! I have always known that they were lovely, but this time I saw them with "different" eyes, the eyes of a guest. Later we met some old friends in the bar, had a couple of drinks ( it was tea time, so we actually could have ordered cream tea with the most delicious scones and sandwiches as well, but we wanted something stronger;0) and chit-chatted about this and that. But all the time I was sooooo looking forward to having dinner in the Cloisters Restaurant. We were invited by the head chef himself ( he might be a good chef, but he is as well a perfect friend of ours) and I was so excited to see, if he could cook my/his favorite/famous risotto! Seriously, this is the BEST risotto EVER!!!! It is not always on the menu, but if you will ask for it ( tell them: Alex says HI) he is more than happy to cook it! Dinner was delicious, the risotto tasted as good as I remembered and the wines we drank just rounded the whole dining experience up. They even put: "Happy Anniversary" on our dessert plates. Nice touch.. The after dinner drinks were served in the library, oh those cozy chairs..... Breakfast is good. I was (positively) surprised to find a full-veggie breakfast on the menu, since that has always been the one thing missing! (in my humble opinion) So yes, some things have changed, some things are still the same. But, apart from the receptionist who checked us in, the staff is friendly, professional ( as always ;0), welcoming and they will most definitely go that "extra" mile for you, to make their guests happy! read more

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A special place with a unique charm. I made a group booking at the Nutfield Priory for my family to celebrate my sister's 50th birthday. I explained my exact requirements over the phone and found the reservation process efficient. However, it is a centralised reservation centre for Hand Picked Hotels, and the person didn't seem to be very familiar with the hotel I was booking for. Check-in was fine, though the staff, who were mainly Eastern European females, were very stern, with no warmth or welcoming banter. My sister had her wedding reception there over twenty years ago and we had spent several New Year's Eves there. We have a certain empathy with the place, but were made to feel almost unwelcome as we stood about in silence, waiting for keys. Our rooms weren't all ready, so we headed for the Grand Hall, and after having to go and search a waiter, which annoyed me more than the sullen receptionists, ordered bar food. It was all excellent, and plentiful and freshly prepared. I recommend the savoury afternoon tea, if jams and creams and chocolates aren't to your taste. Or get two of each, which is what we did. The hotel has a lovely hushed charm about it, and even though the grounds have diminished in size over the years, the setting is beautiful and lush. I booked us into a Classic double, Executive double and a Suite. The Classic (for me) was small, but with a good size bathroom, and more than enough space for a short stay. If you aren't planning on staying in your room much, then these cheaper rooms are perfectly fine. The room overlooked the car park and hotel entrance, so check if there are any functions planned. Wedding guests can be particularly noisey in the evenings. The Executive double (for my parents) was in the main old building. It was quite dark (damson walls and high up small windows). It had a nice bathroom and huge bed. But comparing it to the Classic, it wasn't really worth the extra expense. The Suite (for my sister, husband and 8 year old daughter) was HUGE. Enormous sleigh bed, massive tassled four-seater knoll, plush armchairs, more than enough wardrobes, giant HD TV, tiled double bathroom with two large sinks and shower and tub. I requested an additional bed for my niece, which was made up with the same quality bedding. The panoramic views over the Sussex Downs was truly spectacular. For a special occasion or special treat, the Suites are the rooms to book. The hotel claims to have a spa. This is actually a sports centre, open to the general public, located a short walk from the hotel. But having said that, it is well maintained, not overly busy (when we used it), and offers a much friendlier welcome than the hotel. I wouldn't recommend getting changed in your hotel room walking there in a robe though and I wouldn't recommend aiming for a solitary swim at 1pm on a Saturday during the school holidays. But with careful timing the spa can be lovely. Also, post spa refreshments are best had back at the hotel if you don't fancy mixing with the good people of Reigate. The Nutfield Priory is a special place, with a unique charm and atmosphere. I look forward to checking in again. read more

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