This beautiful neo-gothic Victorian mansion is set amid 186 acres of landscaped Sussex countryside, with pristine lawns, secret gardens, lakes and woodland trails through Ashdown Forest. The striking Richard Towneley Suite is a converted chapel with a vaulted ceiling lit by stained glass windows – both ceremonies and receptions can take place in this atmospheric spot. Our pick of the spaces though, is the Summer House, located on a quiet part of the lawn that overlooks the lake. The hotel’s Anderida Restaurant, which can be hired together with its cellar of fine wines, maintains an excellent reputation. For smaller gatherings, the Richard de Wych private dining room can host 16 for a wedding breakfast.