If rustic comes to mind when you envisage staying in a beach hut, you’ll be mistaken, as luxury hotels and hospitality companies around the UK have been busy reinventing this traditional seaside escapade.
The Beachcroft Beach Hut Suites in Felpham, near Bognor Regis in West Sussex, are renowned for being some of the most beautiful in the country. They also benefit from having use of the deluxe facilities and room service provided by The Beachcroft Hotel.
Being adjacent to the hotel means you have the luxury of being able to dine in the restaurant or in your hut. Not having to cook means you can spend your time either embracing what’s on your doorstep, from listening to the waves crashing against the pebbled beach, taking a dip in the sea or opting for the hotel’s indoor swimming pool. Or, if you’re longing for an adventure, explore West Sussex’s diverse scenery. There’s something for everyone, from families to honeymooners.
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The interiors feature 50s style seaside prints and pops of colour
(Image credit: The Beachcroft Hotel)
Why come here?
A beach hut staycation here is described by You Magazine as “a luxurious twist on the most traditional of British holidays”. While The Travel Bunny blog echoes this feeling saying “these are quite possibly the most luxurious beach huts in the UK”.
Every aspect of the great British seaside is brought to life here, plus it reminded me of one of those Malibu beach houses with light curtains blowing in the breeze, amazing views of the ocean, and a deck hugged by tropical foliage swaying in the blustery wind.
Of the four beach hut suites, “Shell”, where we stayed, is positioned on the end of the beach hut row. This gives you more privacy, but as with any British seafront the spectacular scenery is shared with those trekking down the coastal path.
Egyptian cotton bed sheets will keep you cosy
(Image credit: The Beachcroft Hotel)
The hut
On arrival, an instant sense of calm washes over you as you’re greeted by the sounds of classical tunes, a welcome note from the hotel and a delicious platter of cake and fresh fruit. The interiors are uplifting with elegant 50s style seaside prints and pops of colour, for example, the red SMEG mini-fridge.
Initially, I was a little worried about being cold here, but there’s no danger of that because underfloor heating has been installed. There’s also cosy Egyptian cotton bed sheets.
Outside, the decked area has a sleek glass balcony and Adirondack recliner chairs, perfect for sitting back and enjoying the sunset. One thing to be aware of is that the suites don’t have direct access to the beach – you have to walk around the huts to the seashore.
On a practical note, the car park is right behind the huts, perfect if you have a lot of stuff to carry inside, and depending on your vehicle, there’s also electric car charging points available.
Enjoy a drink with a view on the hut terrace
(Image credit: The Beachcroft Hotel)
Eating and drinking
The hotel’s on-site restaurant, Tamarisk, is calm, welcoming and the homemade-style food is delicious. As well as eating in, you can also order meals to your hut such as breakfast, fish and chips and also deli-style picnic hampers. The hotel ensures that the fridge is well-stocked with fresh milk, soft drinks, a bottle of rosé, plus added extras such as a decanter of sloe gin.
Other dining options at the hotel include Monty’s Bar & Bistro, BLAKES Bar & Beach Terrace, and Pizza at Blake’s, which is available from 4pm-9pm from June to September. Afternoon tea is also served at The Beachcroft.
Adventures and experiences
The hotel provides inspiration for guests including a walking guide and you can also take bikes out, which are included in your stay. There is also the option to drive to one of the local beaches.
We headed to West Wittering, where we tucked into our Beachcroft picnic hamper amid the undulating sand-dunes. The picnic was such a special part of the stay with everything we needed including a Gingham-printed blanket, cheeses, preserves, and prosecco.
Tinwood Estate, a family-owned vineyard on the border of the South Downs, is also worth seeking out for tours, tastings, and even “yoga in the vines” events.
Alternatively, if Butlins sounds like your idea of fun, get a day pass to ride the flumes at its resort just minutes away in Bognor Regis.
The beach hut suites are charming
(Image credit: Kaye O’Doherty)
The verdict
Modern, yet traditional, this beach hut stay on the south coast is so charming that you won’t want to leave.
Kaye O’Doherty was a guest of Beachcroft Beach Hut Suites. Rates start from £415 B&B. Clyde Road, Felpham, Bognor Regis, West Sussex, PO22 7AH; beachcroft-hotel.co.uk
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