De Vere Selsdon Estate, in Croydon – part of Principal Hotel Company’s De Vere portfolio of country estate hotels and modern event spaces – has unveiled the results of its £5 million refurbishment. The project includes the creation of a new restaurant, Burr & Co. coffee shop, orangery and reception area; as well as the full refurbishment of 54 bedrooms and six meeting rooms to create a hotel that marries 21st Century style and comfort with stunning original Victorian features.
At the heart of the 200-acre estate is an elegant Victorian mansion house which has been returned to its former glory with a top-to-toe renovation to bring it in line with the new De Vere brand standards.
The 54 refurbished bedrooms showcase the brand’s distinctly British aesthetic with a subtle pallet of heritage colours combined with soft tweeds and tan leather to create a home-from-home environment for guests. This investment includes the creation of a new Presidential Suite, which features a large bedroom and separate sitting room; guests can also enjoy a well-stocked private bar, fluffy robes and slippers and upgraded luxury toiletries. A further 96 bedrooms will be refurbished in the next phase of works.
The new reception is bright and airy and creates a real sense of welcome, whilst a new orangery has also been added, where afternoon tea takes centre stage. The hotel’s meeting rooms have all been refreshed and upgraded with the latest technology to reflect the company’s recently launched Smart Space meetings concept. Located in the mansion house, The Cedar Suite with its sculptured ceilings and chandeliers creates a striking atmosphere for larger events and weddings, up to 200 guests, whilst those looking to book a smaller event space, could opt for the Selsdon Suite; a popular choice with its light, airy feel and garden views.
The new destination restaurant, 1042, looks out onto the 18-hole Championship Golf Course which surrounds the property. With a menu of delicious dishes inspired by British classics, the restaurant is the perfect place for a casual lunch, a post-conference dinner or a romantic meal for two. The restaurant’s design complements the wider hotel environment with a clean and contemporary finish, with monochrome tiling and copper accents.
The hotel is also under new leadership with General Manager Matthew Brierley, who has been with Principal Hotel Company for over 10 years. Commenting on the grand transformation, Matthew said: “We’re delighted with the results of the refurbishment. The makeover has breathed new life into what is a landmark Victorian estate. It’s a very exciting time to take over the reins as General Manager and our team is perfectly positioned to deliver a memorable experience for our guests.
He continued: “Whether it’s a large scale corporate event; a romantic getaway for two; a show-stopping wedding or an evening celebration, the hotel and our expert team will deliver an exemplary experience that is tailored to each guest’s unique requirements.”
The stunning estate was transformed into a country house hotel after being bought by Alan Doble Sanderson in 1924; however, the estate predates this by hundreds of years. With a history that has been traced back to 861AD, an Anglo-Saxon hall, a medieval estate of the Knights Templar and a Victorian country seat are just some of its former lives. In the 1930s, architect Hugh Mackintosh worked in stages to enlarge the hotel adding an east and west wing and creating the statement house that stands today with its neo-Jacobean style and red-bricked façade.
The impressive 200-acre grounds are in the process of being enhanced by Principal Hotel Company’s Head of Estates Management, Justin Turner, who has designed the outdoor space to excite guests with beautiful sculptures by artist Emma Stothard. A modern, fully equipped leisure centre has also recently been refurbished and is available for guests and members, as is the renowned 18-hole Championship golf course, designed in 1929 by five-time British Open champion, JH Taylor. Superfast 100MB outdoor Wi-Fi also has been installed, ensuring guests can always stay connected.
The hotel is conveniently located just 14 miles from London and is easily reachable via J6 of the M25 and is close to both London Heathrow and London Gatwick airports trains from nearby East Croydon station travel to London Victoria and London Bridge stations.