Crowne Plaza Felbridge – Gatwick

A Tudor-style, semi-timbered facade combines with modern, red-brick architecture to create a perfectly pleasant first impression of the Felbridge Hotel and Spa. Inside the mood is more contemporary, with subdued tones and a sparse, almost minimalist, reception area subtly decked out with corporate-modern furniture and black-and-white art prints. Despite this being a spa hotel, the vibe is similar to a business hotel and lacks the breezy character some may be expecting. That being said, the low-rise property backs onto attractive and manicured gardens -- as well as a large field and river with birdlife -- making it a popular venue for summer weddings. Proximity to Gatwick Airport and on-site conference facilities ensure a fair share of corporate business, and while off the beaten track for most tourist travelers, the spa also attracts local residents.

The hotel is set back from a busy main road in the quiet West Sussex village of Felbridge, on the outskirts of East Grinstead. There a pub and a few restaurants within walking distance, though the most popular local sight is Standen House and Garden, an Arts and Crafts estate with gorgeous grounds that was built in 1925. It takes about 10 minutes to reach by car. Otherwise there's not a huge amount in the immediate area to attract tourists, though the hotel is a convenient 15- to 20-minute drive from Gatwick Airport and around a 45-minute drive to the edge of London. Alternatively, those looking to travel into London can access the East Grinstead train station in just five minutes by car.  

The hotel's 120 rooms are finished in smart, modern styling with simple darkwood furnishings, carpeted floors, and gold accents combining to create a slightly corporate look. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and 28-inch flat-screen TVs -- upgraded rooms add 39-inch TVs, bathrobes, and minibars. Well-maintained, modern bathrooms have designer toiletries and shower/tub combos or walk-in showers with massage jets. Most rooms on the upper floor also open to balconies overlooking the garden. Some Standard Rooms can feel small -- indeed they start at a compact 14 square meters (151 square feet) -- and rooms can be prone to noise, especially during events at the hotel.

The hotel has a choice of two restaurants, one offering an a la carte fine-dining experience and the other more casual set menus, and a cozy bar. Breakfast is also served in the more formal restaurant, though is not included in the room rate, and breakfast service can get busy when the hotel is full. Spa facilities include a sauna, whirlpool tub, and the standard massage and beauty treatments, as well as a heated indoor pool that's about long enough for laps. There's also two outdoor tennis courts and a small gym. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.