Stepping out in Sussex

All things nature is all the rage. And about time, too. The benefits of getting out into forests, fields and fresh air have long been known but incorporating them into business events isn’t always easy. The beautiful Spread Eagle Hotel in Midhurst is hoping to change that by offering a range of glorious walks from its doorstep in this quintessentially lovely Sussex market town.

Set in the midst of the South Downs National Park, the countryside is stunning. Close by is Cowdray Park, home of polo, and matches were being played as we strolled by. There are ancient woodlands, castle ruins and idyllic cottages all on easily accessible paths whether for a half-hour breather to clear the head or a longer guided walk to explore the area. Maps of circular routes are provided, together with a well-earned afternoon tea –a glass of English sparkling wine is perhaps best left until the meeting is finished.

Also available are two-hour guided forest bathing experiences, where guests are invited to slow down and immerse themselves in the therapeutic powers of woodland. They are thought to reduce stress and impart a profound sense of peace. Possibly the best gift for any delegate.

The family-owned Spread Eagle Hotel, one of three lovely Historic Sussex Hotels, is a truly charming coaching inn dating back to 1430, making it one of the oldest still in existence. Anyone who’s anyone is thought to have stopped by from Guy Fawkes to Oliver Cromwell and Admiral Lord Nelson. Today it manages to combine both a relaxing and luxurious atmosphere. Think creaking, sloping floors, enormous fireplaces, ancient beams, stylish mismatched crockery and excellent linens and bedding.

Offering 39 individual rooms, many boasting four-poster beds and all with antique furniture and contemporary bathrooms, the magnificent Jacobean Hall can accommodate up to 80 for an event. The hotel can be hired exclusively. Easily accessible from London Waterloo to Haslemere and then a short taxi ride, it is just what the doctor ordered for any urban dweller.

There is also a lovely spa offering a pool, sauna, steam room and hot tub.

The hotel prides itself on its range of Sussex wines and tastings can also be arranged as can local vineyard tours.

Following the tough years of the pandemic, this could be the ideal place to bring staff to reconnect, relax and regroup with the ever-present and helpful hand of GM Sarah Stacey.

If you’re looking for more outdoor space and flexibility for an event, one of the group’s other fabulous properties is Bailiffscourt Hotel in nearby Climping. I always feel excited just arriving at this extraordinary place. Built in the 1920s as a party house, it was designed to look like a medieval manor house. Set in 30 acres, its 39 stunning bedrooms are spread across the beautiful main building, thatched house and other cottages in the grounds. Here you too can have your own private playground including a 13^th-century deconsecrated chapel.

A car company is planning an exciting and imaginative product launch here to coincide with nearby Goodwood’s Festival of Speed this summer.

A six-minute walk from the hotel’s award-winning spa takes guests down to Climping beach, which glistened turquoise on my visit as the beach grasses swayed. Once again, Sussex nature at its restorative and beautiful best.