If you’re looking to spoil yourself – or someone special – by booking into one of the best country hotels near London, search no more. This hit-list covers the top 10 country manor hotels the home counties have to offer.
Whether your priority is playing golf, Michelin-level dining, exploring the sprawling grounds, a sumptuous spa, an outdoor pool, or simply keeping the kids happy, read on to discover the five star stay for you.
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1. Cliveden House
Address: Taplow, Berkshire, SL6 0JF
Best for: An intriguing history
Built by a Duke for his mistress back in 1666, Cliveden House is now one of the finest country house hotels near London.
The property is owned by the National Trust, and is surrounded by over 375 acres of glorious grounds.
Within, you can imagine its walls whispering the secrets of the Cliveden Set and the Profumo affair. Its scandalous history is certainly part of its appeal!
Cliveden is a grand Italianate manor house featuring an opulent, traditional interior.
Wandering the gardens is one of the main pleasures of staying here, with woodland, riverside paths, and statues to discover.
Plus, I’d highly recommend cruising down the River Thames in one of the vintage boats with a glass of Champagne in hand – pure bliss!
At Cliveden you’ll also find two top-notch restaurants, a superb spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and a gym.
For the ultimate in couples’ indulgence, I’d suggest booking one of the hot tub rooms.
2. Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons
Address: Church Road, Great Milton, Oxford OX44 7PD
Best for: Michelin-starred dining
If it’s all about the food for you, then I’d recommend booking into Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in rural Oxfordshire.
The restaurant at this Belmond hotel boasts two Michelin stars, plus a Green star. Much of the produce is sourced on site, and as well as vegetable gardens there’s a sizable orchard.
The staff at this five star property provide exceptional service, both throughout the hotel and in the restaurant.
Accommodation features a contemporary take on classic country style, and even the most basic rooms are spacious, with marble bathrooms and courtyard views.
Discover more of the best Michelin star restaurants in the UK.
3. Four Seasons Hampshire
Address: Dogmersfield Park, Chalky Lane, Hook RG27 8TD
Best for: A family-friendly welcome
Only 40 minutes from London, set among the countryside of the home counties, is the Four Seasons Hampshire.
The refined Georgian manor house dates from the 18th century, and is now home to two restaurants, a spa, a couple of pools, tennis courts, and a gym.
Family-friendly facilities also make this the perfect choice for those travelling with children.
These include a playground and a highwire course, plus attentive staff who pay particular attention to younger visitors.
The style is sumptuous throughout, and you can take part in activities such as canal boat trips, clay pigeon shooting, and horse riding locally.
4. The Langley
Address: Avenue Drive, Uxbridge Road, Iver, Slough SL3 6DU
Best for: Proximity to London
The Langley comprises a fully restored Palladian mansion plus a listed Brew House.
This plush Buckinghamshire property features a wonderful spa with a crystal steam room, a herbal sauna, a vitality pool, and a thermal area exclusively for women.
When staying at The Langley, you’re merely five miles from Uxbridge, and could even cycle to the underground station by using the free bikes supplied by the hotel.
Or stay on site to enjoy two pools, a spa, a gym, a bar and restaurant, the manicured grounds, and character-packed accommodation.
5. The Grove
Address: Chandler’s Cross, Watford WD3 4TG
Best for: Keen golfers
The name of The Grove in Hertfordshire is as synonymous with golf as it is with luxury.
Not only is this among the finest luxury country hotels near London with a spa, it also has an 18-hole golf course right there on site.
Set among 300 acres of parkland, The Grove offers comfortable, fresh rooms and suites with fresh, country-style decor – expect pale parquet flooring, crisp linens, rich wood furnishings, and Bose sound systems.
You can also find the Sequoia Spa, two pools, a gym, and three restaurants at the property.
6. Beaverbrook
Address: Reigate Road, Leatherhead KT22 8QX
Best for: Classic meets contemporary
The leafy environs of Leatherhead in Surrey are home to Beaverbrook, a breathtaking Grade-II-listed manor house.
Over 400 acres of grounds here provide plenty of secluded outdoor space and privacy.
Beaverbrook boasts a lounge, a library, a screening room, a gym, a kids’ club, sports courts, woodland, and a lake.
Spending time here is like stepping back in time, and original antiques and artworks enhance the exclusive feel.
Contemporary touches are evident throughout, however, including a smart Japanese eatery, modern meets classic interiors, and bang-up-to-date facilities like TVs with Chromecast.
7. Heckfield Place
Address: Heckfield Place, Heckfield, Hook RG27 0LD
Best for: Farm-fresh produce
Like the Four Seasons Hampshire, Heckfield Place is also located in the Hook area.
This property offers half-a-dozen room types to pick from, spread across both the building and the grounds. All offer soothing garden views.
Heckfield Place is also a foodies’ favourite, thanks to Marle, the restaurant with a green Michelin star. Much of the fresh produce served here is sourced from the grounds.
The hotel also features cutting edge tech from the likes of Apple and Bang & Olufsen, a gym, a spa, an indoor pool, and a cinema.
8. Hartwell House
Address: Oxford Road, Stone, Aylesbury HP17 8NR
Best for: Traditional style
National Trust owned Hartwell House from Historic House Hotels is a honey-toned, Jacobean-meets-Georgian gem in the Vale of Aylesbury.
The property is set among 90 acres of landscaped grounds, and features ornate decor throughout.
It’s all about superb service, tradition, and high quality here, from the cellar storing fine wine for the restaurant to the statues decorating the indoor pool.
Book a four-poster room if you truly want to revel in timeless style and comfort.
9. The Retreat at Elcot Park
Address: Elcot, Newbury RG20 8NJ
Best for: Pocket-friendly prices
If you’re seeking style for a steal, then The Retreat near Newbury offers exceptional value for money.
Yet it offers all the amenities you’d expect from more pricey properties, such as the Signet Spa, the 1772 Brasserie, and boutique style accommodation.
Within the 16-acre, park-like grounds you’ll find an infinity pool, a croquet lawn, a tennis court, a walled garden, and a children’s area.
The Retreat at Elcot Park also offers a pan-Asian restaurant; extensive health, wellness and spa facilities; and smiling staff who make your stay special.
10. Sopwell House
Address: Cottonmill Lane, St Albans AL1 2HQ
Best for: A four star stay
Sopwell House near St Albans is also a more budget-friendly choice. Again, though, you get a lot of bang for your buck.
There’s an appealing range of stylish rooms, suites, and apartments, all set among 12 acres of attractive outdoor space.
The interior decor at Sopwell House is modern and elegant, and the amenities are pretty much unparalleled for the price.
This lovely Georgian property also offers an indoor pool, superb fitness and leisure facilities including the Club at Cottonmill Spa, and several dining and drinking options.
Have you visited any of these country house hotels near London? Let me know your favourites in the comments below!
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