Arriving at the Alfriston hotel, guests may be surprised to discover the amenities hidden behind its charming, wisteria-adorned exterior. This historic establishment features two restaurants, 38 guest rooms (including seven in the adjacent coach house), and a full-service spa. Originally a 14th-century country manor, it has been welcoming visitors since the 1930s. The recently revitalized Alfriston is now part of the Signet Collection, a boutique hotel brand owned by entrepreneur Hector Ross, which has previously refurbished other notable properties, such as the Mitre at Hampton Court and the Retreat at Elcot Park. The hotel’s renovation has drawn inspiration from its proximity to Charleston — notable for its association with Vanessa Bell and Virginia Woolf — incorporating the Bloomsbury group’s distinctive decorative style into the design. With five unique suites, the hotel caters to all types of travelers, from couples to families.

Overall Score: 8/10

Rooms and Suites

Score: 8/10
No expense has been spared in the craftsmanship of the bedroom decor, featuring sofas upholstered in elegant fabrics from Colefax and Fowler, striking elephant-patterned headboards from GP & J Baker, and plush carpets that feel wonderfully bouncy. Ground-floor rooms, categorized as Classic doubles and located nearest to the restaurant and bar, also include luxurious touches such as fluffy robes, Bramley toiletries, and a complimentary bottle of madeira.

The older part of the building boasts rooms with original beams and leaded glass windows, while the top suites include luxurious freestanding tubs within the bedroom space in addition to spacious rain showers. Family accommodations come equipped with charming bunk beds and thoughtful touches like books and plush toys for children. Room service is available, but guests can also access self-serve pantries stocked with snacks on each floor to satisfy late-night cravings.

Dining Experience

Score: 8/10
Dinner at the 1554 Brasserie leans towards seafood specialties, including dishes like smoked trout, Fowey mussels, and daily sharing plates featuring seabass. Meat lovers will find plenty to enjoy as well, with perfectly cooked rib-eye steaks, tender slow-cooked lamb, and a hearty duck cottage pie topped with creamy mashed potatoes. For dessert, a standout option is a creative take on Ferrero Rocher that features a rich chocolate mousse encased in an almond crust.

The wine menu features a curated selection of budget-friendly Italian, French, and Spanish wines, alongside premium options available by the glass, starting at £16.

Breakfast takes place in the scenic Orangery, adorned with hand-painted woodland designs by Florence Sherwood, offering a buffet with a range of teas, coffees, and a well-rounded selection for building a traditional English breakfast.

Additional Amenities

The 10-meter heated outdoor pool is a favorite among families, while the spa features a sauna, a relaxation area with views of the gardens, and three treatment rooms. The newly established wellness center features experienced therapists offering customized massages and facials using products from the British brand Gaia. Guests can also partake in outdoor activities with a Mucky Boots Welly Wall providing footwear for exploring the South Downs, as well as options for kayaking on the Cuckmere River and electric bike rentals for greater countryside exploration.

Location

Score: 8/10
Alfriston is a characteristically English village, located between Newhaven and Eastbourne, featuring wonky, half-timbered pubs, quaint tea rooms, and a charming bookshop named Much Ado. The hotel is situated directly on the South Downs Way, with easy access to shorter walks like the nine-mile round trip to Cuckmere Haven through Friston Forest. Additionally, the nearby Rathfinny Wine Estate provides tasting options just a 30-minute walk from the hotel.

B&B doubles start from £150. Restaurant mains begin at £20. Family and dog-friendly accommodations available.

Laura Jackson was a guest at the Alfriston.