The Reeds at South Lodge, nestled within 93 acres of picturesque West Sussex countryside, offers peace and a chance to unwind.
Arriving at South Lodge feels like stepping into a world designed for stillness. The estate’s charm lies in its blend of understated luxury and the soothing presence of nature. From the gentle rustling of leaves to the breathtaking vistas of the South Downs, every detail encourages you to exhale. And yet, it’s The Reeds, the estate’s newly unveiled lakeside lodges, that elevate this retreat to a realm of extraordinary serenity.
A Home Beside the Water
The Reeds is a collection of lodges that seem to emerge naturally from their lakeside surroundings. These retreats are thoughtfully designed to blend beauty and comfort, allowing the landscape to take centre stage.
Our lodge, Dragonfly, welcomed us like an old friend, its warm wooden exterior and understated elegance promising a peaceful retreat. Tall, two-storey windows framed the lake like a living work of art, inviting the outdoors in. Inside, the décor whispered calm—soft, natural textures complemented by soothing earthy tones. It felt as though every detail had been chosen to encourage relaxation. The crowning touch, however, was the outdoor copper whirlpool bath, perfectly positioned for a tranquil soak while gazing at the still waters beyond.
It’s the smaller details that stay with you long after you leave. Breakfast arrives in a beautifully arranged hamper, discreetly placed in a hatch by the door to ensure an uninterrupted morning. We savoured ours on the private sun deck, where the only sounds were birdsong and the gentle ripple of the lake.
For those craving a little more energy in the morning, breakfast at Botanica, the estate’s zero-waste, dairy-free restaurant, is an excellent option.
Wellness by the Water
A stay at The Reeds is a chance to reconnect with nature, and there’s no better way to do so than by wild swimming in the estate’s serene lake. The guided session we booked was both invigorating and grounding, with a friendly, knowledgeable guide who eased any hesitations and made the experience feel effortless. Immersed in the cool water, surrounded by reeds and open sky, we felt completely removed from the bustle of daily life.
The award-winning spa at South Lodge is another jewel of this tranquil retreat. The design mirrors the natural contours of the landscape, creating a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. The reed-fringed natural pool, the infinity-edged indoor pool, and the thermal suite offered plenty of opportunities to unwind. Meanwhile, the private steam shower and sauna in our lodge elevated the experience into pure indulgence.
Dining with Care
Dining at South Lodge is as much about atmosphere as it is about flavour. At The Pass, the estate’s Michelin-starred restaurant, the tasting menu is a celebration of culinary artistry. Each dish showcases the finest locally sourced ingredients, with flavours that tell a story of the region. The sommelier’s expert wine pairings added another layer of depth to the experience, ensuring that each sip brought out the best in every bite.
For a more relaxed yet equally delightful dining experience, Botanica serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes with an emphasis on plant-based options, offering something vibrant and refreshing for every palate.
A Parting Reflection
As our stay drew to a close, there was a bittersweet note to our departure. It’s always hard to leave a place that feels so uniquely restorative. Yet, The Reeds is not simply a destination—it’s a memory, one that lingers gently, reminding you to carry its tranquillity into your everyday life.
Brighton Road, Lower Beeding, Horsham, West Sussex, RH13 6PS
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