STAY : Archerfield, luxury accommodation in East Lothian
Luxury lodgings in East Lothian don’t come any better than this. Archerfield House, exudes extravagance with secluded accommodation, a world class spa and two Champion standard golf courses.
REVIEW OF ARCHERFIELD, LUXURY ACCOMMODATION, EAST LOTHIAN
I have to admit that imposter syndrome did kick in as soon as I indicated to turn into Archerfield Estate. The perfectly winding road with precision manicured verges, the symmetrical estate house with its ten black range rovers with personalised number plates parked outside, the stunning and very Scottish stag sculpture at the entrance, the perfectly placed lights all along the roadside, the spa nestling in the trees and the immaculate clubhouse overlooking Archerfield Links. However, the staff are so lovely and welcoming, that I felt so as ease on arrival at the Clubhouse.
ACCOMMODATION AT ARCHERFIELD HOUSE
There’s 550 acres at Archerfield which is host to a variety of accommodation. Here’s a quick run down
The House - a 17th century Grade 1 listed building that can be yours for exclusive use for up to 30 people. However in January 2023 they are opening the house up for one night stays from £340 per room. Terms and Conditions apply.
The Lodges - there are 9 x 3-4 bedroom lodges to choose from. They can sleep up to 8 people, are self catering although you can request the fridge be stocked on arrival or book a chef for dinner. These lodges are also dog friendly. Prices start from £610 per night.
The Marine Villa - sleeps up to 10 people with your own private access to the beach. Self-catering and dog friendly. Prices start from £1400 per night.
The Boat House - sleeps up to 8 people set in the woodland in a secured gated community. Self catering and dog friendly. Prices start from £1400 per night.
The Cottage - sleeps up to 4 people with stunning sea views and private access to the beach. Self catering and dog friendly. Prices start at £500 per night.
The Pavilion Suites - there are 12 suites available, perfect for couples. Located next to the Mansion House. Prices start from £280 per night.
THE PAVILION SUITE ACCOMMODATION
The Pavilion Suites are self-contained suites suitable for two people and they have plenty of space to stretch out and relax. Overlooking either Dirleton Links course, the wood-surrounded pond or the pastoral fields beyond, the views are beautiful outside and in.
I stayed in one of the Pavilion Suites overlooking the fields and it was gorgeous.
A massive big comfy bed greets you as you enter and you just know from the start, that you’re gonna have a tremendously good sleep. There’s easy access to plug sockets on either side of the bed and the TV does swing out at an angle so you can watch TV in bed. Large cupboard and dressing table as well as two Ottomans at the foot of the bed provide ample storage and clothing space, should you need it.
THE BATHROOM
The en-suite bathroom is spacious with great light, a vanity mirror and a glorious shower. Thick soft fluffy white towels and Bamford toiletries finish off the spa-like feel of this bathroom.
THE SITTING AREA
The generous sitting area is directly in front of the bed, but the space isn’t all at cramped. A comfy sofa, two armchairs and a coffee table laden with crystal cut glassware, an ice bucket and a selection of chocolates, make sure your relaxation or tv watching experience is a cosy and pleasant one. You can watch Sky TV, jump on the Wi-Fi or settle into a book.
KITCHENETTE AND DINING AREA
There’s a small self-contained kitchen too complete with crockery, cutlery, kettle, coffee maker, sink and a microwave with a dining table and chairs just off to the side. There is tea, coffee, hot chocolate, crisps and biscuits available for late night munchies or your early morning cuppa before breakfast.
I often think to myself, when staying in self-catering accommodation, if I could happily live here. Do they cater for all my needs??
All I can say is, Archerfield surpass this.
BREAKFAST AT THE CLUBHOUSE
After a wonderful night’s sleep, you can drive or wander along to the Clubhouse where you can feast on a fabulous breakfast with all the trimmings.
The breakfast buffet is loaded with everything you little heart desires from a breakfast. The Full Scottish breakfast is available for you to dish up yourself, except you eggs which you pre order. Then there is everything from overnight oats, pastries, cereals, breads and fruit salads to cheese and cured meats. Plus there is a cooked breakfast menu for pancakes, waffles, Eggs Benny etc.
Of course for me it was the Full Scottish with perfectly poached eggs.
THE CLUBHOUSE AND RECEPTION
I fell in love with the decor in the Clubhouse. It has a African Safari Luxury Lodge aesthetic and having grown up in South Africa and stayed at many a Safari Lodge, this was giving me all the feel good vibes. The paintings in particular are stunning - savannahs with images of the Big Five.
The Clubhouse is also where you will find reception. Check in and check out is usually contactless but if you need to speak to a person, then this is where you will find them.
BELHAVEN X ARCHERFIELD WINTER SESSIONS - DINNER
For dinner, the previous evening I was invited to Belhaven Brewery in Dunbar (approx 20 minutes car drive from Archerfield) for a collaboration of Beer and Food between Belhaven Brewery and Archerfield.
It was an intimate evening, hosted in the magical setting of the Brewery. We were welcomed to Belhaven and taken on a short wintery walk through over 300 years of brewing on the site, and beers were served. Then it was up to the brewery’s Monks Retreat to enjoy a range of award-winning Belhaven beers and Archerfield Executive Chef Dave Jamieson’s modern take on the traditional bar snack! The tasting experience commenced: four refreshing Belhaven beers, each featuring a different style and flavour, perfectly paired with four small plates from Archerfield’s delicious new winter menu, which is packed with seasonal flavour and locally sourced ingredients. Read all about my beer and food experience HERE.
As part of the Belhaven x Archerfield Winter Session, you can extend your evening by staying at Archerfield.
This was a superb night made even better with a stay at the stunning Archerfield. Thank you for hosting me Archerfield and Belhaven Brewery.
THINGS TO NOTE :
Dogs are welcome in all the accommodation but there is a cleaning fee to be paid
Disabled access is available across much of the accommodation and at the clubhouse too
Vegetarian options for food are available. Ask about Gluten Free
Archerfield House, North Berwick, East Lothian, EH39 5HQ