The Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa

About The Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa

The Spread Eagle is one of England's oldest coaching inns, parts of it dating back to 1430, and stands in the centre of Midhurst, a short drive west of Petworth on the edge of the South Downs National Park. Queen Elizabeth I reputedly stayed here in 1591, and the building retains a wealth of original features, from exposed oak beams to a reputed secret passage once used by smugglers fleeing along the coast.

The 39 bedrooms are individually decorated, mixing period character with modern comfort, and range from cosy timber-framed rooms to grander suites including the Queen's Suite, named for its royal connection. A contemporary spa has been added within the historic footprint, with an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room, giving guests a proper reason to linger over a weekend rather than just passing through.

Its position five minutes' walk from the South Downs National Park entrance and close to Cowdray House makes it a useful base for exploring both Midhurst and Petworth, and the hotel's restaurant and bar draw on the same historic setting for a more indulgent stay than the smaller inns closer to Petworth itself.