New guest experiences at Surrey hotel
Putting a nostalgic, imaginative spin on al fresco dining, the hotel's new balloon dining experience gives guests the rare chance to savour a special meal in six stationary hot-air balloons. Temporarily grounded within Beaverbrook's magnificent Italian gardens, each one of these vintage-style, ruby-and-pink-striped beauties seats up to six in wooden-and-wicker comfort. An authentic menu from the Japanese Grill will be served with a generous portion of estate views. The Yakiniku Menu will start with cocktails and a selection of Japanese amuse-bouches. A spectacular sushi and sashimi sharing platter is then followed by a selection of the finest meats (including Japanese Wagyu Beef from Kobe and Kyushu Island, Acorn-Fed Iberian Pork and Wild Cured Deer) and vegetables to grill tableside. To finish, a selection of fluffy, sweet puddings inspired by clouds.
Wine Discovery
The British wine industry has quietly become one of the fastest growing in the world. To showcase the production process of organic and biodynamic bottles, Beaverbrook has partnered with its neighbours, Albury Organic Vineyard, to offer guests exclusive access during the week. Albury is situated on the southern slopes of the North Downs, just a 25-minute drive away. Guests will get an education in the organic, viticulture winemaking process while exploring the heritage-rich vineyard, which produces Beaverbrook's sparkling wine. Once the self-guided tour is complete, they will sample some of the wines – such as the Sparkling Wine Stopper and Biodynamic Wild Ferment – complemented by a locally sourced cheeseboard, before heading back to the hotel along charming country roads. Beaverbrook can provide a picnic.
Throughout the summer, guests will be able to explore scenic spots in the Surrey Hills behind the wheel of iconic classic car, the Morgan Plus Four, which will be available to hire for days out. Boasting timeless style, the car was launched in 1950. Seven decades on, the all-new Morgan Plus Four retains all its signature charm, enhanced with 21st-century technology.
Guests will feel the summer breeze rush through their hair as they navigate the winding country roads, equipped with recommendations from the hotel on the most picturesque driving routes. A 20-minute drive away is Newlands Corner, which is managed by Surrey Wildlife Trust and boasts cinematic views over the Surrey Hills. (It is also famously where Agatha Christie disappeared in 1926.) Another scenic spot a short drive away is Shere village, a-brim with charming buildings, quaint tearooms, boutiques and pubs, and Box Hill, which is managed by the National Trust, with a viewpoint overlooking hills, towns and greenery.
Turbo e-bikes
Prefer two wheels to four? Beaverbrook bike rides come with added oomph this summer, thanks to the hotel's new partnership with Specialized. Guests can enjoy half- or full-day adventures on two types of turbo e-bike: the agile Turbo Vado or the smooth Turbo Como. The hotel has three recommended routes for cycling thrills on these nifty steeds: Beaverbrook Estate, Box Hill and Albury Estate.
Beaverbrook's vast estate offers unrivalled opportunities for al fresco dining, so The Garden House Restaurant has introduced a new private dining experience. The Garden Table stars an enticing Italian Summer Feast menu, designed for sharing. Set in the blossoming grounds, the dining area is secluded from the main restaurant, shaded by a wooden canopy, with room for up to six guests. Decorated with seasonal flower arrangements, it comes with cosy blankets and hot water bottles in case of chilly evenings. Beaverbrook can also arrange artisan picnic hampers.
Check out www.beaverbrook.co.uk