We recently escaped to the countryside to enjoy a stay at one of the best hotels in Kent. Chilston Park Hotel is a luxury country house hotel that sits in 22 acres of Kentish Parkland. Through its history the estate has been home to writers, politicians, lords and viscounts, but today opens its doors for any guest to enjoy an unforgettable stay.
Chilston Park is owned by Hand Picked Hotels, a unique and luxurious collection of family-run hotels that let you escape the stress of everyday life and explore Britain at its best. And, as I’ve mentioned in my review of Buxted Park Hotel, every Hand Picked Hotel is dog friendly, which means your canine companion never has to miss out on the adventure.
Continue reading to hear why Chilston Park Hotel is your answer to a luxury staycation in Kent…
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
First impressions are always important and as we drove up the tree-lined driveway with fields of sheep and their baby lambs, I knew almost instantly we were in for a special stay.
Chilston Park Hotel holds so much history. The manor house dates back to at least 1100 and you can really see its charm and history through the details that have been left by the previous owners. You can even see the artistic portraits of those that have lived and enjoyed live in the country house.
As soon as we entered the main reception we were greeted with a warm smile from the team who knew straight away that Moose was there to check in. It took no time at all to be given the key to our room and we were personally shown the way.
OUR SUITE
Chilston Park Hotel has 53 rooms, all known by a name and not a number. How unique is that? We were fortunate to stay in one of their feature bedrooms, known as Hogarth.
Hogarth is their 1920s themed bedroom and as we opened the door our eyes were immediately drawn to the beautiful canopy four poster bed. In front sat two luxury leather armchairs and above hung an art Deco chandelier. The room was filled with character and charm. Either side of the canopy bed were two sash windows and you really couldn’t beat the view of the hotel grounds and lake.
As you know, first thing first before anything else, it’s time to test out how comfy the bed is!
FOOD AND DRINK
Whilst every Hand Picked Hotel is so unique, if there’s one thing they all have in common is that they all know how to employee an incredible chef that knows how to create a delicious meal.
Chilston Park Hotel is home to Culpeper’s restaurant, an incredible two AA-rosette restaurant that I can guarantee you a memorable experience. As with most hotels, dogs are not always allowed in the main restaurant but it doesn’t mean you miss out. We enjoyed our meal in the bar area with the same authentic menu.
Head Chef, Adrian Martin has put together an unforgettable menu with vibrant seasonal dishes with a creative twist. I had the Salt Baked Heritage Beetroot to start, followed by mushroom stroganoff and to top it all the sorbet for dessert.
Things only got better when we were asked if we’d like to enjoy breakfast in bed the next morning. How could we refuse that offer?
We picked our breakfast choices that evening and was asked to leave the menu card outside our door for the porter to collect during the night. The following morning we were greeted by room service at the time we’d requested with everything we’d asked for.
MOOSE AND HIS STAY
I can’t begin to tell you how happy it makes me to see the love Moose receives on our stays with Hand Picked Hotels. The team fell in love with him, so much so that they asked if he could stay and be the Chilston Park Hotels resident dog. Other guests seemed to fall in love with him too. I noticed the big smiles on their faces as they’d pass him. They wouldn’t usually be able to get past without Moose asking for a cuddle or tummy tickle.
Hogarth had been fitted with a comfy dog bed, food and water bowls, everything he needed for his stay.
THE GROUNDS
My favourite part of Chilston Park Hotel is the hidden gems waiting to be discovered within the 22 acres of Kentish Parkland that surround the country house. With immaculate lawns, manicured gardens and wildlife that fills it, not to mention the tranquil lake with views that’ll leave you speechless, you most certainly won’t run out of places to explore during your stay. I suggest you try and find our favourite spot, their secret hanging swing.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat, a luxury escape to the countryside, a family staycation or a dog friendly getaway, Chilston Park Hotel is your answer to the best hotel in Kent. We are already dreaming of our next stay.
