The Retreat

I hosted my best friend's baby shower here, and I honestly couldn't fault a thing. From my initial enquiry right through to the end of the event, the staff were exceptional. Donna was incredibly responsive and answered every question I had promptly, making the whole planning process stress-free. On the day, the room was beautifully set up, creating the perfect atmosphere for the celebration. The food and drinks were absolutely stunning, and nothing was ever too much trouble for the team. Everyone had a wonderful time, and I can't thank the staff enough for making the day so special. I can't wait to come back again—hopefully next time to enjoy the spa facilities!

a month ago · via Google

We have been staying at Retreat East since its opening. Our most recent visit we stayed in the Lodge and enjoyed the outdoor bath tub. The coffee and tea provided are great and the welcome cookies were a nice touch. Toiletries were not filled up, hand wash hardly had any product in and disappibtingbthat there was no shower gel on offer. It was frustrating that still post-covid you have to book the steam room.and sauna. Also disapointing you cam no longer add water to the sauna to make it really hot. The steam room was great. However, very disapointing that our 9am sauna session couldnt be used as neither the sauna or steam room had been turned on long enough and the temperature was luke warm at most. Food was nice and flabourful in the restaurant- we had sunday roast. When we turned up we fancied a cocktail but the pool table space has disapointllingly been removed. We were offered cocktails in the barn - the bar has no seatimg space. The service was very transactional and we was asked if we were celebratimg anything - which we were - but no form of celebration was offered or acknowledged. At breakfast there were flies over all of the buffet table - perhaps the fly fans or food covers would be a good idea given the rural location. The general friendliness of staff was lacking - when walkimg past service staff and gardeners there was never a friendly hello. Retreat East has expanded a lot since opening - yet things like the social space at the bar removal and no addition to sauna/steam facilities and only being able to book a 30 min session certainly devalue the product.

2 months ago · via Google

We’ve just returned from a one-night stay at Retreat East. The lodges are beautiful, and the accommodation feels genuinely luxurious, especially the bathroom and shower facilities. The staff were consistently friendly, smiley, and attentive, which really enhanced the stay. It’s also very dog-friendly, with some nice off-lead walks nearby. However, the £25 dog charge felt quite high, particularly as no water bowl, treats, or dog bed were provided—something many more basic hotels tend to include. We had booked time for the hot tub and spa, but this was limited to 30 minutes per lodge. Unfortunately, there was also a group of four already using the facilities during our slot, which meant we effectively lost part of our time. The gym was nice, but it does need to be booked in advance. We also felt the massages were overpriced for what was offered. Breakfast and dinner were a bit underwhelming and felt overpriced for the quality and value offered. There was also no oat milk available, and not many options to cater for dietary requirements and allergies. We thought we had settled the bill on departure, but were later chased for outstanding bar add-ons, which was frustrating. Sadly, this wouldn’t be high on our list of recommendations, despite the lovely setting and potential. It feels like it could be much better with improved facilities and more attention to detail around dining and guest experience.

2 months ago · via Google

Stayed here for a nearby wedding at Shrubland Hall. Could not have picked a better place. The rooms were exceptional (stayed in the Hive), the food in the Great Barn was very high quality and fresh ingredients clearly used thoughout which just raises the bar. (You need to try the roast!) Continental breakfast alone was great but also can opt for a cooked breakfast which was perfect pre-wedding. The spa facilities are great with a large steam room and sauna which was a pleasant surprise. The area is peaceful and very scenic, so got to enjoy a lovely walking route. It's also so pleasant just waking up and looking out your window to the lovely barns and scenery. Only thing to note is you can hear your neighbours attached to your barn quite easily, so think management may wish to look at ways to soundproof the connecting wall a bit. A large living room separated us, so didn't affect sleeping, just more something we were mindful of. Waiting staff were great and very friendly and the receptionist too who was helpful with planning/booking etc. Loved it so much I'd definitely look to come back just to come for a relaxing weekend in the future.

3 months ago · via Google