Heckfield Place Review — Where Soph Went

Heckfield Place review - in a sentence:

Experience absolute luxury alongside serious foodie and design credentials at this incomparable, much-coveted idyll.

Design: 5/5

Years in the making and it’s clear when you arrive at Heckfield Place that it was a true labour of love, with a total commitment to excellence extending to the smallest detail. Nowhere is this more evident that the design scheme, which has been widely lauded as part of the (well deserved) hype around this property.

My design highlights are:

An extensive modern British art collection (belonging to the investor-owner, Gerald Chan) displayed throughout - many of us will recognise the iconic David Spiller piece in the main sitting room from Instagram I’m sure!
Individual craftmanship is celebrated, from Olivia Fiddes lamps to bespoke cabinetry for the in-room minibars
The largest, squishiest sofas ever - I’ve spotted many guests napping on them (it’s thank kind of relaxed but luxurious atmosphere) - mostly from George Smith. Yes, I made a fool of myself and checked the undersides for the labels!

On a personal level, those who follow me on Instagram will know that I’m basically obsessive about the design scheme here - Heckfield is the only hotel I’ve ever been to where I would change absolute nothing to suit my personal tastes. From the soothing, neutral colour palette to the expert blend of more refined, polished pieces alongside more rustic and antique pieces, it’s just so “me”. Do you ever enter a space and just completely feel at home? That.

The sitting rooms, in particular, are my biggest design inspiration for my own home. The Georgian building lends grand proportions to them, which could potentially have made them feel too vast and clinical, but the design team have perfectly deployed characterful and homely touches to counteract this.

Food & drink: 5/5

Heckfield is home to two excellent restaurants directed by Michelin-starred chef Skye Gyngell:

Marle - which holds a Green Michelin Star and champions local, seasonal produce. Marle is an airy, light-filled space with a refined feel
Hearth - this is my recommendation if you only make one reservation; cooking is mostly on an open fire, and everything I had was super tasty. Hearth is cosy, homely space with a buzzier feel

Breakfast at Heckfield is the best hotel brekkie I’ve had, without doubt - a huge four-course affair of all home made options, featuring breakfast classics with an elevated twist.

The Moon Bar - featuring the iconic disco ball - is also an intimate little nook for a night-cap, and the excellent, friendly bar staff will be glad to whip you up a classic cocktail or their latest seasonal options from the estate, as you prefer.

Location: 4/5

Just an hour’s drive from London, Heckfield is literally perfectly positioned for a quick one-night staycay for Londonders. Yet you’re actually deep in the heart of the Hampshire countryside, here, and it’s suuuuper relaxing. Those coming by train can arrive at Winchfield or Reading and grab or cab, or have Heckfield organise you a transfer.

To-do: 5/5

Occupying over 400 acres, the grounds at Heckfield are expansive and absolutely chock full of things to do. After two visits, my personal highlights are:

Indulging in some R&R in the Bothy spa - its facilities are unmatched, in my opinion
Guided tours of the estate - I loved visiting the working farm and snooping around the orchards
Wandering around the walled gardens (especially in summer)
Boating on the lake (or, for those braver than me, wild swimming!)
A bespoke picnic on the lawns

… but there is enough to occupy you for days so I highly recommend you browse the experiences on offer and chat to front of house to produce your bespoke itinerary!

Reasons to book:

Staff treat you like absolute royalty, from a super slick and luxurious check-in experience (personalised printed itinerary, a valet to immediately whisk off your bags, welcome refreshments, etc.) to addressing you by name at all times
The Bothy is arguably the best (and certainly the most chic) spa and wellness destination in the UK. It’s the best spa experience I’ve ever had. I even fell asleep in the relaxation room after my massage! (I mean, they gave me a weighted blanket and a candle to snuggle up with on my huge squishy loveseat… I’m only human!!)
Attention to detail here is absolutely paramount - highlights include personalised luggage tags on check-out, initial-stamped room keys, a selection of Hunters/Barbours to use for countryside rambles and complimentary minibars AND afternoon tea. To me, this is true luxury
The restaurants are culinary destinations in their own right - Skye Gyngell is a genius, need I say more?

Any negatives?

I honestly can’t think of a single fault with the hotel and the experience. But, objectively, the price is certainly a downside (and room rates are frequently increased)

Heckfield Place review - the final word

To me, Heckfield Place is truly incomparable, and the stand-out option amongst its peers. But don’t take my word for it: frequently touted as one of the top 5 best hotels in the country, others clearly agree! Trust me, every aspect is perfection and it’s well worth the money. I will return again and again.

Review: Heckfield Place