There are some places that leave such an impression that you find yourself wanting to return. Beaverbrook was one of those places.
Our first visit was in 2022 with George and Skylar, when we had one of the hotel’s most memorable dining experiences beneath its now-iconic hot-air balloons. It was a meal we had often talked about since, so when planning this year’s Kitchen Chat® Tour, I felt only fitting that Margaret should experience Beaverbrook before she left for Chicago.
Nestled in the Surrey Hills, just under an hour from London, Beaverbrook is the former country home of Lord Beaverbrook, the Canadian-born newspaper proprietor, politician and close confidant of Sir Winston Churchill. During the Second World War, as Britain’s Minister of Aircraft Production, he played a pivotal role in dramatically increasing the production of Spitfires during the Battle of Britain.
Today, his former estate has been transformed into one of England’s most distinctive country house hotels, where history, luxury and a touch of whimsy come together beautifully.
This time, we stayed in the charming Thyme Cottage, complete with its own private patio, giving Lulu plenty of space to explore while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Returning to dine beneath the colourful balloons felt just as magical as we remembered.
Against a backdrop of perfect blue skies, before another spell of summer heat arrived, we once again enjoyed the exquisite Japanese cuisine.
The setting is unlike anywhere else, elegant yet relaxed, and it’s easy to understand why this has become one of Beaverbrook’s signature experiences.
There is something rather special about revisiting a place after a few years. Familiar enough to bring back happy memories, yet with new experiences to create alongside them. This visit was exactly that. Different companions, another chapter in our Kitchen Chat® journey, but the same warm hospitality and unforgettable dining that first captured our hearts.
Some places are worth discovering. Others are worth returning to. Beaverbrook is one of them.
Beaverbrook – Reigate Road, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 8QX
