moddershall oaks – a story of resilience
Every business has key moments that define its story. At Moddershall Oaks, one of those moments came in September 2024, when a freak weather event caused flash floods and mudslides that swept through our grounds. What happened that day was something no one could prepare for. It changed us—not just in terms of the physical damage, but in how we came together, how we rebuilt, and how we now look to the future with even greater resilience.
Now, one year on, we’re reflecting on that chapter with gratitude. What felt like devastation at the time has become part of our identity—a reminder of the strength of our team, of our business, and the incredible support of our community.
what really happened
It started with sudden, torrential rain that flooded roads across the area and overwhelmed even the most seasoned drainage systems. In a matter of minutes, the sheer volume of water overflowed the surrounding land, with mud and water pouring onto the grounds and blocking drains.
As a property set in a valley, the fast-flowing water converged downhill and caused the first flood, with The Oak House restaurant bearing the brunt. The restaurant and spa were evacuated, with all guests sent home safely. Those due to arrive were contacted en route and advised not to travel.
When the rain eased, our team spent hours moving water out of the property, cleaning, and securing the site. But at 10pm, the skies opened again, and a second flood hit—this time even more damaging. With drains still blocked from the first surge, little could be done to hold it back. This wasn’t just heavy rain; it was a once-in-a-generation event.
The impact was immediate. Buildings were flooded, facilities left unusable, and our entire team faced the reality of an unexpected closure. In the days that followed, we were told repairs could take six to eight months—or longer.
the aftermath
But Moddershall Oaks is more than bricks and mortar. We are a team. We are a community. And thanks to an outpouring of support from friends, guests, and local businesses, we faced the challenge head-on.
Our first priority was contacting every guest with a booking that would be impacted. We worked closely with couples, families, groups of friends, and corporate clients to rearrange their reservations and events—whether by rescheduling or relocating to a neighbouring venue.
Perishable foods were donated to local foodbanks and with two weddings scheduled just three weeks later, our focus turned to repairing the kitchen, venue, and grounds. Against the odds, both weddings went ahead as planned.
The wider property took longer—furniture, flooring, electrics, drainage, and more all needed repairing or replacing. But with the dedication of our team and the tireless work of local contractors, weeks of cleaning, repairing, and future-proofing paid off.
In just five short weeks—far sooner than anyone thought possible—Moddershall Oaks reopened in full. Our team was back to doing what they do best – welcoming guests and creating memories once again.
Moving on
The floods revealed how unpredictable nature can be, but they also motivated us to act decisively. The business reopened with interim flood defence measures in place, and over the past year, we’ve invested heavily into extensive permanent protections across the entire property.
Yet the flood didn’t just inspire us to protect—it inspired us to grow. In the midst of the closure, planning permission was granted for our next development – the Woodland Pods. Receiving planning permission is a milestone in any development, but even more poignant for a team work tirelessly to rebuild a business to receive the news at that time.
Less than six months after reopening, we pressed ahead with the investment to our onsite accommodation, and opened our beautiful woodland pods village. The Woodland Pods offer guests a collection of unique accommodation option that perfectly combine the comforts of a modern hotel with the tranquillity of a countryside retreat.
Our response to the flood has made us stronger, safer, more resilient and even more committed to delivering exceptional experiences for our guests.
The 2024 flood will always be part of our story. But it isn’t a story of disaster—it’s a story of resilience, innovation, teamwork and community.
One year on, we can see how much we’ve grown. What once felt like a setback has become a stepping stone. We stand stronger, more resilient, and more future-focused than ever.
When guests come to us for relaxation, celebration, or connection, they can trust they’re stepping into a place that has weathered the storm—and emerged even more beautiful on the other side.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
