Ockenden Manor Hotel and Spa – A Historic Manor with Modern Charm

If you’re dreaming of a countryside escape where you can relax, recharge, and experience a bit of luxury, look no further than Ockenden Manor Hotel and Spa. Located in the charming village of Cuckfield, West Sussex, this historic manor house offers a perfect blend of timeless elegance and modern comfort.

With its luxurious spa, award-winning dining, and serene views over the South Downs, Ockenden Manor is the ideal spot for anyone looking to unwind in a beautiful setting.

We live half an hour away from Ockenden and a friend has a membership, so I have been lucky enough to visit it several times for a relaxing day of pampering and putting the world to rights :)

Ockenden Manor Hotel and Spa

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a day of pampering with friends, or just a solo retreat to rejuvenate, Ockenden Manor and Spa has everything you need for a memorable and indulgent experience.

Ockenden Manor itself is a stunning Elizabethan manor house that dates back to the 16th century with 28 decorated rooms, an outstanding and modern spa and an award-winning restaurant set in eight acres of stunning grounds overlooking Cuckfield Park.

From the exposed timber beams and antique furniture to the beautifully landscaped gardens, Ockenden Manor oozes historic charm. Yet, despite its age, the manor is warm and welcoming, with modern touches that make it comfortable and luxurious.

The Spa Experience: A Wellness Haven

However, for me, it is Ockenden Manor Spa that sets it apart from other hotels. It is set behind the Manor Hotel, built inside a 19th-century walled garden, with the contemporary building and floor-to-ceiling windows providing a beautiful contrast to its surroundings.

Spa Facilities

The spa features an impressive list of facilities, treatments and relaxation areas making it easy to spend a whole day there. On our visits, we tend to head straight to the sauna and steam room after picking up our complimentary dressing gowns and flips flops in the modern changing room.

I have been to plenty of spas over the years, where the saunas are a bit tired-looking and don’t provide enough heat, but the Sauna and steam room at Ockenden are clean, large and hot enough to get a sweat on!

We then head to the rainforest shower, located next to the pool and go to the relaxation area on a mezzanine area overlooking the indoor pool. There are free tea and Nespresso coffee facilities so this is the perfect place to relax before heading into the pool and it never gets too busy.

The heated indoor/outdoor pool is one of the highlights for me. You can leave your dressing gown on a bed in the relaxation area, head straight to the pool and then go through a swim-through door that takes you to the outdoor pool. We love doing this on a cold day, there’s nothing like taking a swim in a heated pool whilst you can see your breath in the air!

However, although advertised as a heated pool, I would dispute that! It is cold getting in and they have had numerous problems with heating the pool over the last year.

Outside you will find sun loungers around the pool and an outdoor firepit and if you’re brave enough, get out of the pool and head to the hot tub, probably where we spend most of our time.

There’s also a relaxation room above the pool which is a bit quieter, where you can kick back with a herbal tea and a cosy blanket, letting the stresses of daily life melt away.

There are many mixed reviews about the Spa; some people complain about the size – there should be more saunas and steam rooms, but we have never found it too busy and have been on various days of the week.

There are also complaints about the cleanliness of the spa. But whenever we have been, there are always staff about, removing paper cups (though, seriously, why can’t people discard their own rubbish?) and picking up towels and dressing gowns that have been left on sun loungers.

I can’t see why this is Ockenden’s problem, I think people just need to be more mindful about “hogging” sun loungers, especially when it is busy. There are plenty of chairs and hooks to place your towels and gowns so other people can relax whilst you are using the facilities.

BOOK HERE

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
OCKENDEN MANOR
✔️ Beautiful Surroundings
✔️ Award Winning Spa
✔️ Fantastic Restaurant

↳ Book it

Treatment Rooms

What really sets the spa apart is its variety of treatments. Ockenden Manor uses organic, locally sourced ingredients in its spa products, and you can choose from a range of massages, facials, and body treatments designed to rejuvenate and refresh.

Some of the most popular treatments include the Elemental Rebalancing Ritual, created specially for Ockenden, which uses Five Elements oils specific to your needs, including a foot scrub and a glass of Sussex sparkling wine.

There is also an Isopod which lets you float in an environment similar to the Dead Sea, helping you to relax in body-temperature salt water to help relieve pain and boost your immune system.

Fitness Suite

There is a fully equipped gym with resistance, Cardiovascular equipment and free weights and a fitness studio for yoga, pilates and various classes, although there is a fee. The gym isn’t huge, so I wouldn’t go for the fitness suite itself, more as a package for the whole spa.

The Hotel

Ockenden Manor has 28 individually styled rooms, each with its own unique character. It has been on the same site since the mid-1500s, although the original house burnt down in 1608.

It was rebuilt and remained in the Burrell family until the 20th century, and was used to house Canadian troops during the Second World War. It was turned into a guest house and restaurant after the war and has been owned by the same family for nearly 40 years.

The rooms in the original Elizabethan manor feature historic elements like wooden beams, fireplaces, and antique furnishings, making you feel like you’re staying in a piece of history.

For those who prefer a more contemporary feel, the rooms in the newer spa wing are sleek and spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of natural light, and if you’re lucky, a roof terrace overlooking Cuckfield Park.

All rooms come with modern amenities like Wi-Fi, a Nespresso coffee machine, plush bedding, Temple Spa bathroom products, and fluffy dressing gowns.

Dining at Ockenden Manor

The dining experience at Ockenden Manor is as memorable as the rest of the visit. The hotel’s restaurant, led by Head Chef Stephen Crane, has earned accolades for its innovative and seasonal menu. Here, you’ll find a focus on local, fresh ingredients, many sourced from the surrounding Sussex countryside.

You can choose to eat in the historic drawing room with beautiful vintage decor or when the weather chooses to be kind, sit outside on the sun terrace. Here they serve breakfast, bar food, a lunch menu and Sunday lunch.

The restaurant also offers a choice of tasting menus, as well as à la carte options, so there’s something to suit every palate. Some standout dishes include the Sussex Menu with seasonal vegetables, and the Honey Roast Quail Rossini, all prepared with creativity and finesse.

And don’t skip dessert—the pastry chef’s creations are indulgent and beautifully presented, making for the perfect sweet ending.

Dining at Ockenden Manor isn’t just about the food; the ambience is cosy and elegant, with views of the gardens, creating a serene atmosphere that’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a celebratory meal.

And of course, the wine list is extensive, featuring many Sussex wines as well as options from around the world, ensuring the perfect pairing for every dish.

Afternoon Tea

If you’re looking for a quintessentially English experience, don’t miss the afternoon tea at Ockenden Manor. Served in the drawing room or, on sunny days, on the terrace, the tea includes a delicious selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of delicate pastries and cakes.

There’s also a range of teas to choose from, or you can upgrade to a glass of champagne for a touch of extra indulgence. Afternoon tea at Ockenden Manor is the perfect way to spend an afternoon with friends or family, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

BOOK HERE

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
OCKENDEN MANOR
✔️ Beautiful Surroundings
✔️ Award Winning Spa
✔️ Fantastic Restaurant

↳ Book it

Exploring the Local Area

While Ockenden Manor and Spa is a destination in itself, the surrounding area offers plenty to explore if you’re in the mood for a little adventure. Located in the heart of Sussex, the manor is close to some beautiful countryside and historic sites.

Here are a few places worth visiting:

• The South Downs National Park: Perfect for a scenic walk or hike, the South Downs offers rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and stunning views over the countryside.
• Borde Hill Gardens: Just a short drive away, these gardens are known for their beautiful flower displays and themed gardens, perfect for a peaceful day out.
• Nymans: This National Trust property is a beautiful English garden with stunning views and fascinating history. The estate includes a ruined house, woodlands, and picturesque gardens.
• Sheffield Park: Another National Trust property, Sheffield Park is set over 300 acres with glorious gardens, seasonal events and a long history. It is a must-visit in the Autumn when the landscape turns into beautiful reds, golds and greens.
• Local Vineyards: Sussex is home to several award-winning vineyards, and wine lovers will enjoy a visit to places like Bolney Wine Estate or Ridgeview Wine Estate, where you can sample local wines and tour the vineyards.

Ockenden Manor and Spa is truly a gem, combining the elegance of a historic manor with the luxury of a modern spa retreat. It’s a place where you can escape from the world, treat yourself to some well-deserved pampering, and enjoy the best of British hospitality.

The beautiful setting, delicious food, and exceptional spa make it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a special occasion.