Review of Heckfield Place

Heckfield Place enjoys an enviable position in the heart of rural Hampshire, perfectly balancing seclusion with accessibility. Nestled between the M3 and M4 motorways, it offers Londoners an effortless escape into the countryside—less than 50 miles from the capital.

Despite its bucolic setting, Heckfield Place is remarkably well connected. Winchfield Station, just a 15-minute taxi ride away, offers convenient rail links, and for a seamless arrival, the hotel can arrange private transfers upon request.

The charming nearby village of Hartley Wintney enchants with its quintessential village green and a characterful high street brimming with independent shops and historic inns.

For those seeking a more urban interlude, Reading and Basingstoke are both within easy reach, offering additional retail experiences.

Literary enthusiasts will delight in knowing that Jane Austen’s former home in Chawton lies just down the road, adding a touch of timeless English heritage to the area.

Adding to its discreet allure, Heckfield Place employs ANPR technology, ensuring that only invited guests can access the estate—an elegant layer of privacy and exclusivity.

Upon arrival, luggage is seamlessly whisked away to awaiting rooms, and vehicles are valet parked. Upon departure, look out for your custom red leather luggage tag! Very AMAN!

Heckfield Place offers an intimate and luxurious escape with just 45 individually designed rooms, effortlessly blending timeless heritage with modern comfort. Split between the stately Main House and the stylishly understated extension, The Corridors, each space feels like a seamless continuation of the estate's elegant story—thanks to the thoughtful vision of designer Ben Thompson, a protégé of the renowned Ilse Crawford. There’s no hint of separation here, just a harmonious flow of refined luxury.

Rooms are thoughtfully curated into five distinctive categories, each reflecting the estate’s graceful charm. Rich textures and natural materials create a warm, inviting atmosphere—think fine wool rugs, handwoven rush mats from East Anglia, and bespoke ceramic bedside lamps that add a soft, tactile touch.

The Signature Rooms are where bold personality meets indulgent comfort. Every room has its own unique flair, yet they all share luxurious details: marble bathrooms filled with Wildsmith Skin toiletries and, in all but ten rooms, freestanding bathtubs that invite long, relaxing soaks.

Every element is carefully considered to turn comfort into an art form. Tea and coffee aren’t just provided—they’re presented with finesse. A sleek black Japanese-style kettle is perfectly paired with gold and silver tools, all tucked neatly into a grey felt-lined tan leather pouch. The bespoke minibars are a joy to discover, brimming with Skye Gyngell-approved snacks, house-made cordials, freshly baked biscuits, and elegant carafes of still and sparkling water. Leather-lined drawers hide Champagne coupes, and softly lit compartments house kettles that click effortlessly into custom bases—every detail whispering of Heckfield’s unwavering dedication to perfection.

My home at Heckfield was Suite 1 – The Lake Room – over 90 square metres of hospitality-heaven. The bedroom features a comfy iron four-poster bed – swamped by pillows. It overlooks the lake and grounds below. I am told that The Lake has the best view of any guestroom. Beside the bed are a Bluetooth speaker, controls for the lights – very easy to use – and a USB port for that all-important cell phone! And yes – there’s strong wi-fi throughout the hotel.

There’s a writing bureau filled with embossed cards, a gorgeous little “go explore” map, envelopes, and a QR code which tells you about all the stunning artwork in the room (and indeed the whole hotel).

The ensuite bathroom is a triumph. There’s an enormous walk-in shower, free-standing bathtub, milking stool – yes – a milking stool – I have ordered one for my bathroom at home – (how could I have lived so long without one), double sink, oodles of soft towels, a money plant (very necessary), storage – which features wool/cashmere hangers, a goodie box containing tasty toothpaste, toothbrush, hairbrush (I wish I had hair), comb (I wish I had hair), torch, and sewing kit – all highly “desirable”!

The suite has a living room – a salon – complete with small dining table, large television, dive-into sofa, bookshelves filled with readable volumes, Champagne (Charles Heidsieck), and a complimentary minibar featuring fresh coffee, fresh tea, Heckfield IPA, Heckfield lager … and sweet treats. There’s a fabulous tea ritual – but I won’t spoil it for you …

As guestrooms go – Heckfield Place – Lake Suite – unforgettable.

Heckfield Place is a dream for families, with thoughtful little touches that make children feel right at home. Need a cot or an extra bed? They’re free for under-fours and £100 a night for youngsters aged 4–16 in the Chamber and Master Rooms. Marle Restaurant has a kids’ menu, and there’s plenty to keep little ones busy with outdoor adventures like tree hunts and falconry displays.

Dogs get the VIP treatment too! For £35 per stay, your pup can join you in one of the pet-friendly rooms, complete with a comfy bed, food bowls, and tasty treats. Just let them know your dog’s name, size, and breed ahead of time, and they’ll take care of the rest.

At Heckfield Place, service isn’t just about hospitality—it’s about creating an experience that feels completely personal and in tune with nature. Everything here, from the food on your plate to the way you unwind and recharge, is designed to nurture your body, mind, and soul. It’s a thoughtful, holistic approach that makes you feel truly cared for in every moment.

At the heart of this peaceful escape is The Bothy by Wildsmith, a wellness sanctuary that moves with the rhythm of the seasons. From the moment you step inside, you’re gently encouraged to let go—literally. Phones are tucked away in lockers, and suddenly, the usual digital buzz is replaced by the soft sounds of birdsong from the estate. It’s a quiet, calming shift that makes it easy to slow down and just be.

The Bothy itself is pure understated luxury. Natural light floods in through massive floor-to-ceiling windows and a grand skylight, illuminating limestone walls and floors embedded with ancient fossils—little reminders of nature’s quiet beauty. The star of the space is the chlorine-free indoor infinity pool, its still surface catching the light even on grey days. One end of the pool is all glass, offering stunning views over the rolling grounds and the biodynamic farm that supplies the hotel’s kitchen. On warmer days, the glass wall disappears entirely, blurring the line between inside and the great outdoors.

The Bothy is perfectly balanced between relaxation and rejuvenation. Beyond the pool, you’ll find six peaceful treatment rooms, two fitness studios, a dedicated movement space, a steam room, and a sauna with sweeping views of the estate. Outdoor hydrotherapy experiences pull you even closer to nature. Spa treatments go beyond the usual with unique offerings like iridology, forest bathing, sauna medicine, wild swimming, and woodland movement sessions—all designed to reconnect you with the natural world.

For those feeling bold, a guided cold-water swim in the estate’s misty lakes—even in the chill of winter—is the ultimate wake-up call, led by expert wellness practitioners. It’s the kind of experience that leaves you buzzing and alive.

But wellness isn’t the only thing on offer here. Heckfield Place’s curated Assembly programme is a treasure trove of enriching activities. Cozy up for intimate film screenings in the hotel’s underground 67-seat cinema or join in on inspiring talks, hands-on workshops, and artisan demonstrations. Whether it’s stargazing, rush weaving, or painting, there’s something to spark every interest. Prefer the outdoors? Explore the orchards, beehives, and kitchen gardens on guided tours, or borrow a bike and wellies to roam the countryside. You can even try your hand at bouquet-making or join the head gardener for a peaceful nature walk.

For a taste of classic British pursuits, the hotel can arrange everything from fly-fishing and falconry to horseback riding at the nearby Wellington Estate, rounds of golf at Hartley Wintney, or even clay pigeon shooting. If you’re curious about grand estates, you might enjoy comparing notes with the sprawling Wellington Country Park nearby. And for gin lovers, the iconic Bombay Sapphire Distillery is just a scenic 30-minute drive away.

Service at Heckfield Place feels effortless yet deeply thoughtful. The team, many of whom have honed their craft at prestigious AMAN resorts, offer intuitive care that’s attentive without being intrusive. From discreet valet parking and seamless luggage handling to the small, thoughtful gestures throughout your stay, every detail is gracefully handled.

Here, every moment—whether you’re lounging by the pool, indulging in a soothing spa treatment, or watching a film under the stars—is designed to help you relax, recharge, and reconnect with the timeless beauty of nature.

No visit to Heckfield is complete without a visit to the Farm. Here you see first hand where most of the ingredients for the hotel’s amazing cuisine originates. The fully functional biodynamic Farm is home to sheep, cows, chickens and pigs. There are greenhouses-aplenty where fruit and vegetables are grown. Fresh flowers are picked from the beds that are tended throughout the year.

 If you are lucky, the world-renowned biodynamic farmer Jane Scotter is on-site. Her knowledge of all-things agronomy is second to none. Peter Quinion – estate manager – is the ultimate guide to the Farm and the 438 acres that make up Heckfield Place.

Arguably, the Farm is my favourite experience at Heckfield.

If art is your bag, then Heckfield is your place! The billionaire owner has run riot with his favourite pieces. Every room, corridor - basically where's there is space - is an exquisite piece of art. As mentioned, a QR code to your phone will take you on a virtual art tour of the property. 

Heckfield Place is the definition of quiet luxury—a perfect blend of Georgian charm and modern elegance. It’s the kind of place where nothing feels forced, yet everything feels intentional. This transformation into a world-class country house hotel didn’t happen overnight. It was a labour of love that spanned over a decade, led by owner Gerald Chan, a billionaire with an eye for detail and a passion for perfection. He teamed up with designer Ben Thompson, once part of Studio Ilse, to breathe new life into the estate. Together, they’ve created a space where history and contemporary design flow together so naturally, it feels like it was always meant to be this way.

The design honours the estate’s grand past while feeling refreshingly current. Once the 19th-century home of Charles Shaw-Lefevre, Viscount Eversley and Speaker of the House of Commons, Heckfield Place has always had an air of quiet authority. Back in 1859, it was described as “a large and handsome mansion, in an extensive and well-wooded park.” Today, that legacy is alive and well—beautifully preserved, but with a fresh, modern twist.

Step through the front doors, and you’re welcomed by understated opulence. The entrance hall is bright and airy, with rustic geometric tiles underfoot and a sweeping staircase that naturally draws your eye to a plush Persian rug and a dark wood table crowned with a perfectly arranged, yet tastefully subtle, floral display. A marble fireplace stands proudly across the room, adding a layer of classic elegance. It’s this mix of textures—old and new, soft and strong—that makes the space feel both grand and effortlessly inviting.

Every inch of Heckfield Place has been thoughtfully considered. Even the small, functional details are turned into design moments. Room keys are smooth, carved wood instead of plastic. Fire extinguishers? Rose gold and polished to perfection. Even the loo roll blends in with the earthy tones of the interiors. It’s these small, often unnoticed touches that quietly whisper luxury at every turn.

Throughout the house, pieces from Gerald Chan’s private art collection are casually placed, offering little glimpses into his personal taste. The artwork doesn’t scream for attention; it simply enhances the space, sitting comfortably among mid-century furniture, bespoke modern pieces, vintage fabrics, and artisan creations. Everything feels curated yet relaxed.

Outside, the estate’s gardens are as thoughtfully designed as the interiors. Originally shaped by renowned 18th-century horticulturist William Wildsmith, the grounds feature an arboretum and a serene ornamental lake, once known for its exotic fruits. These gardens have been lovingly nurtured and expanded, creating a landscape that feels natural and welcoming, gently wrapping around the house and softening its grandeur.

Ben Thompson’s interior design beautifully mirrors this connection to nature. Handwoven rush matting from the River Ouse, English oak furniture, and soft, muted fabrics bring warmth and texture to every room. Tapestries by Lucy Bathurst, velvet cushions, and bespoke ceramic lighting layer in comfort and charm without ever feeling overdone.

What makes Heckfield Place truly special is its quiet confidence. There’s no flashiness here—just thoughtful design, rich craftsmanship, and a deep respect for the estate’s story. Luxury isn’t about excess; it’s about the little things done exceptionally well.

Heckfield Place is a reminder that true luxury never tries too hard. It’s timeless, effortless, and utterly captivating—a beautiful dance between heritage and modern living, where every detail tells a story, and every space invites you in.

At Heckfield Place, dining is not merely a necessity—it is an immersive experience rooted in time, place, and season. Every meal here is a celebration of the estate's natural abundance, orchestrated with effortless elegance under the visionary guidance of Skye Gyngell, the Michelin-starred culinary director renowned for her work at Petersham Nurseries Café and Spring at Somerset House. Her steadfast commitment to the farm-to-fork philosophy elevates Heckfield's gastronomy to an art form, where each dish is a testament to the land from which it was sourced.

Awarded a prestigious Green Michelin Star, Marle is the heart of Heckfield’s culinary scene. This light-filled, conservatory-style restaurant perfectly mirrors the estate’s ethos of sustainability and simplicity. Every dish is dictated by the rhythms of the biodynamic farm, kitchen garden, and orchards that surround the estate. The result is a dynamic, ever-changing menu that celebrates the freshest ingredients at their seasonal peak.

On any given day, one might savour a silky taleggio risotto with wet walnuts or tender farm lamb accompanied by kohlrabi, braised radicchio, and delightfully crispy potatoes drizzled in black garlic vinaigrette with a dollop of sour cream. The dining experience feels deeply connected to the land—each bite, an echo of the estate's fertile soil and careful stewardship.

Set within a beautifully restored former stable, Hearth is an intimate, guest-exclusive restaurant where wood-fired cooking reigns supreme. The open fire at its core infuses each dish with an irresistible depth of flavour. Sharing plates encourage convivial dining, featuring dishes such as chunky prawns, whole grilled fish, and perfectly charred cuts of meat, alongside standout vegetarian creations like stuffed peppers and onion squash with sage butter.

Hearth's partnership with local organic grower Fern Verrow ensures the produce is of exceptional quality, handled with respect and simplicity. The rustic yet refined menu might present comforting dishes like wood-fired pizzas, confit duck leg, or a stunning plate of beetroot with labneh and caraway seeds. Each plate is an ode to elemental cooking—unpretentious, deeply satisfying, and profoundly connected to its surroundings.

My visit coincided with a superb supper that featured top chef Jackson Boxer – he of Orosay and Henri. Hearth became his for the evening, and the diners were treated to the perfect “Hearth” chicken and vegetables – all from the Farm, of course.

Nestled within the Manor House, the Moon Bar offers a seductive counterpoint to the airy elegance of Heckfield’s dining spaces. This dark and brooding cocktail lounge is the epitome of cosy sophistication, perfect for a quiet nightcap or a lingering evening of spirited conversation. Here, passionate bartenders craft innovative cocktails that surprise and delight, blending house-made infusions with the finest spirits. Every detail, from the sultry lighting to the plush seating, invites guests to unwind and savour the moment. The Moon Bar embodies the art of lingering—a place where time slows, and every sip is a journey.

Mornings at Heckfield are equally indulgent. Breakfast is an à la carte affair, allowing guests to curate their perfect start to the day. Dishes are as nourishing as they are delicious—banana and rye bread offers a wholesome comfort, while courgette fritters with feta, chilli, and fried egg deliver a zingy wake-up call. On fine mornings, dining al fresco on the terrace transforms breakfast into a blissful countryside ritual.

The recently introduced Sunroom Café, exclusive to Bothy guests, offers light, seasonal fare during the day—a secluded spot to nourish body and soul after a morning of wellness treatments.

Skye Gyngell’s culinary vision - Farm-to-Fork Philosophy – is deeply rooted in Heckfield’s land. Inspired by her collaboration with biodynamic farmer Jane Scotter at Spring, Gyngell has pushed the seed-to-plate philosophy even further here. The estate’s biodynamic farm, kitchen gardens, orchards, and livestock are the lifeblood of every dish served.

Menus are defined not by culinary trends but by the harvest. From curd-cheese dumplings with autumn greens, brown beans, and hazelnut dukkah to guinea fowl with bread sauce, elderberry syrup, and shredded cabbage, each creation is as nourishing as it is inventive. Desserts continue this thoughtful narrative with offerings like steamed blackberry pudding with roast figs and custard or a fluffy almond cake paired with house-made honeyed walnut ice cream and greengage sorbet.

For more informal moments, guests can venture to the fire pits tucked behind the house. Overlooking the estate’s natural lawns and lakes, these spaces provide idyllic settings for sundowners, where the flicker of firelight meets the fading hues of the countryside sky.

At Heckfield Place, dining is a holistic experience—an elegant, sensory journey that begins in the soil and culminates in extraordinary dishes crafted with care and creativity. It is a place where guests are not merely served; they are nurtured, indulged, and profoundly connected to the rhythms of nature.

Sustainability at Heckfield Place is not a mere initiative—it is the very foundation upon which the estate operates. Every aspect of the hotel, from its biodynamic farming practices to its zero-waste ethos, is a reflection of its unwavering dedication to nurturing the land and protecting the environment for future generations.

At the heart of this commitment lies the fully certified biodynamic market garden and the organic home farm, both of which supply the hotel’s kitchens with the freshest seasonal produce. This seed-to-plate approach ensures that guests enjoy dishes crafted from ingredients harvested mere steps away, significantly reducing the estate’s carbon footprint. Beyond the cultivated land, the estate is home to protected ancient woodlands, a living testament to Heckfield’s respect for natural heritage. These woodlands are carefully preserved, and the estate actively contributes to reforestation efforts by planting and nurturing new trees on-site.

The hotel proudly operates under a stringent zero-waste pledge, where every effort is made to eliminate waste. Food scraps are conscientiously repurposed, and food waste is meticulously recorded to inform future practices. This commitment extends to eliminating single-use plastics entirely, both in guest rooms and kitchens. Even the smallest details are thoughtfully considered - glass and ceramic containers in minibars are sourced from local artisans, and plans are in motion to replace all plastic bottles with sleek, sustainable aluminium receptacles.

Heckfield Place’s pursuit of sustainability continues to evolve with ambitious future projects. The upcoming glass-blowing centre will further reinforce the estate’s self-sufficiency and dedication to craftsmanship, while the increasing reliance on clean energy sources underscores a proactive approach to reducing environmental impact. Bath products, luxuriously curated yet sustainably crafted, are locally made, supporting the community and minimising transport emissions.

Recognition of these efforts is reflected in Marle’s Green Michelin Star, an accolade reserved for restaurants leading the way in sustainable gastronomy. This distinction acknowledges Heckfield Place’s relentless dedication to ethical sourcing, waste reduction, and the harmonious integration of hospitality and environmental responsibility.

At Heckfield Place, sustainability is not a separate chapter but an integral part of its story. Every thoughtful action, every carefully made choice, echoes the estate’s profound respect for the natural world—a commitment that guests are invited to witness, experience, and be inspired by.