Champneys Forest Mere - Liphook

John G.

Let’s be honest - the overall experience is great. The spa is great, the ambience is incredibly relaxing and the treatments are just what’s needed.

But, the place is looking tired, the rooms are dated, numerous places were really dusty, and the chairs on the sun deck were just lying around following strong winds numerous days prior. Almost as if no one was really caring about what the place looked like.

It’s expensive, it trades on its reputation - but needs to start getting the basics right to justify its cost - and continue its premiere experience.

Stephanie B.

Just returned early from an utterly disappointing first and last experience at Forest Mere. I’m not even sure where to start… ||Check in was inadequate, we were not advised about anything from spa facilities, to restaurant options nor were we advised that we needed to make reservations in the restaurants for our meals. By the time realised this we were only able to get a 2pm slot for lunch. ||The Spa facilities are just beyond inadequate, it was not possible to enjoy any of the “experiences” due to volume of people allowed into the facility. Beds are reserved with towels all day and the best we managed to sit on was a neon green chair similar to a folding garden chair. People stay on the water beds for hours, sit in the hot tubs for extended periods of time and staff do not manage this situation. After several hours waiting on our uncomfortable chairs we managed to get into a jacuzzi only to discover it was luke warm. The sauna was below 60c and it wasn’t even possible to get a bit of a sweat. The whole area was cold, and extremely messy with towels everywhere, and many of the guests were saying the same thing. Cold and uncomfortable on the cramped chair we gave up and left.||I had a massage in the spa, where unfortunately my therapist was clearly unwell, stopping to cough throughout, full of cold and clearly no strength or energy to actually massage it was at best a gentle rub. At one point I felt so uncomfortable I asked her if she was ok or wanted to go and get herself some water. It was an awkward experience and I hope I have not come home unwell as a result. ||Our room was beautiful in the old house, but it was freezing cold, as were other rooms as there were many other guests complaining also. We put on extra layers and reception offered us blankets… not really acceptable at over £300 per night. ||Dinner was ok, the food was good and poor young chap in the restaurant was doing his best, virtually on his own. The tables were left dirty and people who arrived on time were left waiting 20 minutes to be seated due to no staff. By the time they got sat down half the food on the menu was not available. We had to had to chase our drinks twice in order to actually get them with our food. The restaurant was also freezing cold and other tables joked with us about wanting to sit by the radiator and the total lack of atmosphere.||Breakfast was utterly pathetic, we arrived to find only a half full restaurant but every table was filthy and we had to wait to get a seat. The buffet selection was pitiful, everything was empty, and not replenished. We ended up having to order food at additional cost just to get something to eat.||We didn’t even bother with lunch or attempt to even use the spa again the next day and we left early. We have requested a refund… we shall see what happens! I will update this review once the “resort” have responded. Management needs to seriously address these issues, a total victim of its own success and now just a money grabbing red letter day experience, quantity of guest over quality of service. Flying on the coattails of a once an upon a time renowned reputation!!! Beyond disappointed.

Lily S.

Most relaxing trip of my life! All the staff have been so accommodating and welcoming. My masseuse, Nox, was incredible. Extremely skilled and very professional, made me feel so comfortable for my first ever massage, and my hairdresser, Kamini, gave me exactly the results I wanted, clearly knows exactly what she’s doing I am over the moon with my hair now. Leaving this place feeling the best I’ve felt. Massive thank you to every single member of staff! X

TERESA C.

Joined Champneys Forest Mere and attending 3 times a week has become a fixed part of my weekly routine. Huge stress relief, really friendly, welcoming staff and a wonderful environment. I live 30 miles away and the journey is well worth the effort every time. I have no hesitation in recommending Forest Mere for a health/gym membership. Have stayed overnight, rooms are very nice and beds very comfortable.

Jack O.

Our experience at Champneys Forest Mere overall was nice. Having been to Tring also, I’d say that anyone expecting a true luxury spa experience, should consider other options. It’s nice but not as fancy as other resorts.

The spa facilities are pretty good, a little over crowded but nice and was good to have gender split, as well as mixed.

Unfortunately the food and service let it down the most. I was really disappointed in the food; the flavours tasted artificial, prepared badly and cheap quality. I left feeling unsatisfied for the stay.

We did book with Vitality and so benefited from a large discount, which I was happy to pay for what we got. I wouldn’t pay full price personally. I didn’t even consider booking a treatment as they are extortionate.

The sports facilities were pretty good and really happy to see Padel courts.

Generally the grounds seemed a bit run down and could be maintained better.

Grateful there’s no children still.

Ms. R.

A favourite location of mine, the peaceful surroundings are a real highlight. I appreciated the option of a self-guided local walk, made easy with a QR code providing clear directions. The lake views are highly recommended!

The room was comfortable and stylish, enhancing my stay.

The instructors for the aqua, pilates, and dance classes were welcoming and enthusiastic.

The food was good – I’ve tried most dishes on the menu, and you can’t go wrong with the duck, vegan burger, or brioche dessert.

The staff were polite and helpful, whether in the dining area or at reception.

I enjoyed my time so much that I extended my stay. I would definitely recommend this place to reset and unwind.

Vicki J.

I had a lovely day enjoying all the facilities at Forest Mere . Great customer service and a very warm welcome from Emily who went above beyond to answer all my queries and show my friend and I around. The spa was really great and had plenty to do. Food was delicious. Beauty treatments were amazing. I left feeling relaxed and cared for.

Jazmine W.

I booked a spa break with treatment for my mum, the package was completely misleading and when I emailed them to query the booking, I had no reply, I also called multiple times and no one answered the phone. I ended up paying for an additional treatment which wasn’t included into the package and they were extremely unhelpful providing a refund for something that could have been easily resolved by communication.
Service was appalling and would not recommend staying here at all.