THIS summer, AA Hotel of the Year – England 2025, Down Hall Hotel, Spa & Estate, invites guests to experience The Woodland Table — a soulful open-air celebration of seasonality, fire and feasting set within the grounds of its 110-acre estate in rural Essex.

Taking place across three Sundays on 20th July, 31st August and 21st September, Garden Gatherings at the hotel’s new alfresco dining concept, The Woodland Table takes place beneath open skies and leafy canopies, deep within the hotel’s new two-acre walled kitchen garden. Rustic wooden tables and benches carved from estate-felled trees form the setting for an atmospheric and immersive long-table feast, brought to life by flickering fire pits, enchanting sounds of a live vocalist. and the scent of flame-grilled ingredients fresh from the surrounding soil.

Executive Chef Robert Pearce’s menu showcases the bounty of the two-acre kitchen garden alongside the finest produce from the estate and trusted local suppliers. From just-picked vegetables and fragrant garden herbs to prime cuts and sustainably sourced fish, dishes are expertly prepared over open flames and designed to be shared.

Each gathering begins with seasonal drinks and canapés before guests are invited to hear the chefs share the inspiration behind the day’s four-course surprise menu all against the backdrop of a live singer. Expect beautifully curated sharing platters, and fire-kissed dishes of pork belly, lamb rump, charred miso glazed celeriac and wood-charred Chalk Farm trout followed by desserts like toasted pavlova with rhubarb compote. The menu is complemented with a full drinks menu, including estate-inspired cocktails using Down Hall’s own gins and vodka and garnished with fresh herbs from the kitchen garden.

Tickets are priced at £90 per person which includes four courses and a cocktail each, and events are suitable for guests aged 12 and over, with seating at shared tables for a warm and lively atmosphere; inviting opportunities for shared conversation and enjoyment.

What’s more, The Woodland Table is the perfect destination for corporate away days, celebrations and wedding brunches, offering a distinctive backdrop for special occasions.

For guests wishing to extend their summer evening into a relaxing retreat, The Woodland Table can also be booked as an exclusive overnight package for two from £200, featuring tickets to the Garden Gatherings, an in-room hamper and breakfast.

To learn more or to book your place at one of the select ‘Garden Gatherings’, please visit https://www.downhall.co.uk/upcoming-events/garden-gatherings-at-the-woodland-table or here for the getaway https://www.downhall.co.uk/offers/the-garden-gatherings-escape/51-85/.