Originally Posted by
polonius
I love the
Ashdown Park hotel in Sussex. Very close to London (just outside the M25, IIRC), although it can definitely take 2.5 hours if the traffic is bad. For me it's got that balance of luxury but still with a distinctive character. Beautiful grounds, fantastic for walking or running. Very nice rooms.
Whilst I have not stayed here, I have organised several functions here, but won't be doing so again in the foreseeable future. Whilst it may be fine as a hotel (I can't comment), it has of late gained a bad reputation for events, both in my experience and that of a wedding photographer friend.
Nearby
Alexander House has a better reputation, but they've had a big extension lately and I'm not sure how much that will have changed the character of the place.
Gravetye Manor went bust earlier this year. I've not heard any reports of how it has changed since the new owner took over.
I know you said country house hotel, but have you thought about one of the Hotel du Vins? Maybe Winchester, Brighton or Tunbridge Wells? All interesting towns though missing the peace and quiet of the countryside.