The gorgeous huts feature large windows that frame the surrounding nature, queen-sized beds and cinema-style projectors
Mad Swans in the South Downs has opened just over the Surrey border(Image: Mad Swans)
A former golf club has been turned into what is being described as a ’boutique countryside hangout’.
Located just five minutes drive from Farnham, Blacknest Golf and Country Club in Alton has been transformed into Mad Swans in the South Downs, following the successful launch of its debut site in Bristol.
The rural retreat which opened on June 1, can be found deep in the South Downs National Park, and features padel and pickleball courts, a 12-hole golf course, driving range, restaurants, events spaces and hidden eco cabins to stay the night.
Built on Mad Swans’ playful approach to leisure, the venture is led by Joel Cadbury and Ollie Vigors (the duo behind Beaverbrook and the Bel and Dragon) with creative input from multi-Michelin starred chef and strategic investor, Ollie Dabbous and menu design by group head chef Steve Rooney.
A countryside golf destination, the course is designed by internationally renowned architects Mackenzie and Ebert, the team behind the transformations at Royal Portrush, Royal St George’s, Turnberry and advisers to eight of the ten Open Championship venues.
Food is at the heart of the Mad Swans experience and promises to be exceptional.
The main restaurant, The Potting Shed, serves food as bucolic as its surroundings: countryside classics with a creative twist, all made with fantastic produce from local suppliers.
Menu options will include roasted suckling pig with roasted apple, fennel slaw and sage jus and crispy Cornish squid with chipotle aioli and lime.
Mad Swans’ other restaurant, The Hangout, serves crisp, house-made pizzas from £12, indulgent ice-creams and desserts, and inventive cocktails.
Both the indoor and outdoor spaces are designed for sharing and socialising, with a veranda vantage point that allows parents or friends to relax with a drink while staying close to loved ones on the Putt Patch or watching players make their way back to the lodge from the final tee.
Mad Swans’ enchanting eco cabins are tucked into nature and designed for simple, restorative stays.
Looking out across the rolling countryside around the South Downs, options include twin and double cabins.
Thoughtful details, modern comforts and a palette of greens, blues, with pops of red create a perfectly formed retreat.
The cabins feature large windows that frame the surrounding nature, queen-sized beds, drop-down, cinema-style projectors, a walk-in shower, radio player, and refreshment facilities.
Amenities are supplied by Bramley, the award-winning British brand that reinforces a focus on sustainability and wellbeing.
Some of the cabins are dog friendly, and there is additional accommodation available in the main lodge at the site for bigger groups.
How to visit Mad Swans
Address: Frith End Road, Alton, GU34 4QL.Book: Visit madswans.com or call 01420 22888.