We were apprehensive at first.

East Grinstead wasn’t exactly the dreamy locale we were picturing when we were told that we were going on an exclusive weekend getaway. But the hotel came greatly recommended and our diva tendencies were in desperate need of a quality massage.

So, off we went.

We weren’t looking to spend a fortune, just get a glimpse of the high life, but by the end of the weekend, we felt like royalty. We had snagged a “deal” on the room, paying £120 for the two of us for the evening. It may not seem like the best discount in town, but the rate included access to the spa.

Upon arrival, an elderly gentleman whisked our bags up to our small but gorgeous room where plush bathrobes awaited. We threw them on and toured the hotel in slippers.

First stop, the luxurious lagoon-like indoor heated pool and steam rooms, which we didn’t leave for hours. The pool was a private paradise. We barely noticed the handful of other bathers surrounding us.

Before our fingers pruned, we made our way to the hotel bar and drank champagne in our robes by a fireplace. We probably could have stayed there all evening, but we had made reservations for dinner at the hotel restaurant, Alexanders.

The fare was a tad pricey, but having the luxury of a quality dinner steps away from your room was appreciated. The restaurant has an impressive menu, offering decadent treats like Tortellini of Lobster and Blue Cheese Gnocchi.

We slept like babies after the meal (and a couple of bottles of red, ahem) and awoke just in time for our amazing full-body massages at the Utopia spa the next morning. The massage lasted nearly an hour and cost just under £70.

Even though we had already checked out, we were able to end our stay with a soak in the spa’s outdoor garden-landscaped heated Jacuzzi, before reluctantly packing our bags and heading for the train back to London.

We left feeling relaxed and fabulous, and didn’t even mind stuffing ourselves onto the tube home.

And the really great news - Alexander Hotels own a chain of inns across the UK, with three other properties in Kent, Surrey and Rowhill Grange. We may need to start saving, but our new goal is to tour them all.

For more information on the East Grinstead Alexander Hotel, click here. To book to stay at the Alexander Hotel, click here.