Little Waltham, near Chelmsford · ★★★★ 4.5 18-hole golf · Wedding venue · Modern resort · Business-friendly · From £115 B&B
★★★★☆ 4.5 (Nearby: 200+ reviews) → TripAdvisor
Channels Hotel is a contemporary golf resort in Little Waltham, 10 minutes from Chelmsford, centred around an 18-hole parkland course on 150 acres of former farmland. Originally a 1980s country club, it’s now a versatile stay for golfers, wedding parties, and business travellers, with modern facilities and easy A131 access.
The 50 rooms are bright and functional: Standard doubles with en-suites and golf views, up to Executive suites with seating areas and balconies. Decor is neutral with smart TVs and tea trays. The Oak Room Restaurant serves classic British fare—roast beef Sunday lunch or pan-fried salmon—sourced from Essex suppliers, with bar snacks like loaded fries for casual bites. The spa includes a gym, sauna, and massage rooms, while the course (par 72) hosts PGA lessons.
Suited for active groups or events in the wedding barn (capacity 200), it offers free parking, EV chargers, and proximity to RHS Hyde Hall gardens.
Pros
- Excellent golf course and facilities
- Strong for weddings and corporate events
- Good value with free parking
- Quiet rural location near city
Cons
- Functional rather than luxurious decor
- Limited non-golf activities on-site