Hotel of the week Mercure Burford Bridge Hotel, Surrey

WHERE AND WHY

This four-star hotel set in the countryside at the foot of scenic Box Hill in Surrey features 57 en-suite rooms. The hotel is steeped in history, having hosted Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton, and has features dating back to the 1600s.

Our Privilege Room had stunning views of Box Hill and three acres of landscaped gardens featuring a heated swimming pool, available between May and September, and a croquet lawn.

Despite the bathtub needing updating, the room was spacious and clean. It did feel cold at times, but two electric heaters made a difference.

COVID CHECK-IN

All safety precautions were in place. Gone were the complimentary bathrobes and slippers as well as decorative items including cushions. Sanitiser stations were available throughout the hotel, and face masks were required in all communal areas.

ON THE MENU

Since the Emlyn Restaurant was closed, dinner was served in the bar area with skeleton staff.

The full dinner menu was unavailable but my sweet potato, chilli and coconut cream soup (£7) was a tasty starter, and the crispy chicken wings (£7.50) also went down well.

The tortilla chips, with melted cheese, guacamole, sour cream and tomato salsa (£6, or large for (£9) was average.

Mains included burger in a brioche bun (£15), which was a little disappointing. I preferred the falafel and spinach burger (£14). The chunky chips were good, as was my glass of champagne.

The dessert options – lemon tart or sticky toffee pudding (both £3.50) – were too sweet for me.

Unfortunately, we missed out on the cooked breakfast (£13.50), available from Tuesday to Saturday (tables must be booked in advance).

Instead, we had a continental breakfast (£5.50), which guests can choose to have delivered to their room. It featured juice, hot drinks, packaged porridge and plain croissants, and pain au chocolat served warm.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE

Perfect for exploring Box Hill and its picturesque surroundings, the hotel is also five minutes’ drive from attractions such as Denbies Wine Estate in Dorking and the National Trust’s impressive Polesden Lacey estate in Great Bookham.

WAKE-UP CALL

Rooms start from £104 per night. all.accor.com