Beaverbrook
London
UK
The Beaverbrook. Two words that conjure up all sorts of notions of English tradition and heritage. But time stands still for no man and today, this luxury country house private club in Surrey, in the south pf England, has now installed one (just one) padel court, providing the latest temptation to want to peek in.
A British Classic
The Surrey Hills in southern England is home to some of the most beautiful countryside in the UK whilst also being within touching distance of London. It is this combination which has led over time to the creation of an impressive array of high-end weekend getaway spots, golf courses and spa retreats. With the UK’s recent padel boom, it is no doubt that the area will also become a hotspot for the sport.
One place which has recognised this opportunity is none other than the world-famous Beaverbrook. The 470-acre estate owned by Lord Beaverbrook in the early 20th century is now a discreet private club and has recently added a state-of-the-art padel court to complement its facilities. The home of the former press baron, Lord Beaverbrook, is one which is steeped in history.
Beaverbrook was appointed by his friend Winston Churchill as the Minister of Aircraft Production in the wartime government and was famously responsible for tripling the production of Spitfires which played a huge role in winning the pivotal Battle of Britain. As a result, his portrait and one of himself and Churchill hang above the mantelpiece in the club’s living room while the bookcases are filled with books dedicated to the history of that time.
The 18-bedroom home now boasts luxury interiors, an array of the finest cuisine in the country, as well as premium wellness and sporting facilities. It has slowly expanded its offering, adding more rooms in the form of the newly opened Village as well as adding padel to its sporting repertoire. The estate is also home to a members only golf course which is one of the top golf courses in the country.
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The Coach House is the star of the show if, like us, you can’t resist a bit of relaxation to take your mind off the stresses of life. From the moment you enter, the blissful energy of the place will captivate you and occupy your imagination. The exquisite treatment rooms, each with an array of light flowing in through the stained-glass windows and individual mini gardens outside, will put your mind at rest and leave you feeling regenerated. Likewise, the sauna, steam room and jacuzzi will relax your mind and body and if you are looking for some serious rejuvenation, the hyperbaric oxygen chamber might just be your spot.
The Coach House has both an indoor and outdoor pool, with loungers to catch the summer sunshine. Swim laps all year round, or simply use it to cool off when the sun comes out. Involvement in one of their yoga or pilates programs might also require cooling off with the fantastic instructors pushing you to the limits. If that is not your cup of tea, then the state-of-the-art gym with a cardio and free weights area and all of the weight machines you could want will still allow you to get your weekend fitness fix.
Now, on to the fun stuff. Ball sports come by the bucket load at Beaverbrook with tennis, pickleball and padel all on offer – at least you don’t have to choose between the three. Their two tennis courts, four pickleball courts and padel court make it the dream destination if, like us, you cannot go two days without picking up a racket of some kind. They also offer croquet and petanque if, dare I say it, you are after a less competitive experience. E-bikes are some of the newest additions and allow you and the family to explore the estate in the fresh air. If that is not enough to entertain the kids, then hopefully the Sharky and George kids camp and outdoor play area will keep them out of mischief during your stay.
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What makes this place so special isn’t the 470-acres of spectacular landscape and activity (although it definitely helps), it is how they have managed to keep the history of the house intact whilst modernising it to become what it is today. Everyone from the front of house staff to the waiters and ground staff work to preserve its fantastic history and immerse the guests in it. As the hotel has grown overtime beyond just the main house this has become harder, but it’s a challenge that has been overcome and the staff’s commitment continues to be at the heart of the hotel.
So, is it really as good as it sounds (and looks)?
Well, yes, in true Beaverbrook fashion, it is. This is the epitome of British luxury, elegance and tradition, delivered with an immaculate level of service.
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Famous for its exquisite Japanese restaurant which is located in the main house and said to rival many of London’s top sushi spots, the food and drink at Beaverbrook is well worth making the trip for. Aside from this, the Coach House Deli is what might take your fancy after a long battle on the court. Its wraps and salads always hit the spot and go well with the adjacent wellness activities. Likewise, The Garden House provides an excellent lunch spot with perfectly executed Mediterranean and British dishes to keep your hunger at bay. If you have only got one night, make sure to book yourself in for that Japanese experience that you have been dreaming of and if you really want to treat yourself then a visit to Sir Franks Bar is a must. It will not disappoint.
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The Elizabeth Taylor Martini – it is topped with caviar.
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The staff are some of the best in the industry. They make any issue seemingly disappear with ease, whilst maintaining their professionalism at all times. Their formal attire is complemented by the subtle nod to the hotel’s naming rights with a Spitfire pin worn by each member of staff. In the wellness and fitness department, the team are fantastic at leading your sessions at whichever pace you so wish. Their massage therapists are also on hand to relieve any strains from your workout earlier in the day.
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Just a single court nestled in the estate’s never-ending gardens, and surrounded by classic green English vegetation, making for a truly countryside playing experience. If you can dodge the English showers or autumn leaf drop, then there is no better place to play. With rackets and balls provided on-site, this really is the perfect addition to your weekend getaway.
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Beaverbrook branded padel rackets and Aircon padel shirts from Pulco Studios