Main image: Beaverbrook, Surrey Hills
Sopwell House, St Albans
Swap the city buzz for the tranquillity of the Hertfordshire countryside at this elegant Georgian manor house, just 26 miles from London. Once the private residence of Lord Mountbatten, it is today a refined country house hotel, beloved by both England footballers (who train nearby) and discerning travellers. Guests pad around in fluffy white robes in the award-winning Cottonmill Spa before dining at the AA Rosette fine dining restaurant. Book it.
The Grove, Hertfordshire
A mere tube ride away, The Grove is a sprawling 300-acre estate on the edge of Watford that offers a true retreat from urban life. Right at the end of the Metropolitan line, this recently renovated country house was crowned ‘Best Dining Experience in the UK’ at last year’s Conde Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence. Delicious food aside, the hotel has plenty to do for all ages. There’s an outdoor pool, tennis courts, an 18-hole champion golf course, a luxury spa, a walled garden and in the summer, there’s an artificial beach. All on the doorstep of London. Book it.
Margate House, Margate
For a cheeky grown-up minibreak by the seaside, you’d be hard pressed to find any better than Margate House, an adults only B&B. Overlooking a pretty square just steps from the beach, this modern townhouse is a favourite among artsy millennials and creative Londoners seeking an escape to the Kentish coast. With soft dusky pink terracotta hues, exposed brickwork and mid-century furnishings, this sophisticated yet relaxed bolthole is a gem for a weekend away. Book it.
The Retreat at Elcot Park, Newbury
A swift drive down the M4 or a direct train from Paddington to Newbury brings you to The Retreat at Elcot Park, a stunner of a country house hotel by the Signet Collection. The whole place feels lived-in and understatedly beautiful, striking the perfect balance between homeliness and elegance. When it comes to food and drink, choose from its two exceptional restaurants – one pan-Asian, the other a contemporary brasserie – before unwinding at the spa or taking a dip in the indoor or outdoor pool. From croquet and fishing to electric bikes and nearby horse racing, there are plenty of country activities to keep all ages busy. Take your dog, take your children, this happy destination hotel caters to all. Book it.
Beaverbrook, Surrey Hills
Curated with families in mind, Beaverbrook is the ultimate country house hotel and the good news is, it’s just an hour from London. Steeped in history, this grand Victorian mansion, which sits within 470 acres, has hosted the likes of Ian Fleming and Winston Churchill. Today, the hotel remains one of the most talked about places to be. It’s got it all, from an epic children’s club run by Sharky and George and a treehouse in the woods to cycling trails in the grounds and a chic outdoor pool. The lavish Coach House Spa, with its breathtaking stained-glass ceiling, is regarded as one of the best places to unwind. Book it.
Coworth Park, Ascot
Conveniently located near Windsor and Ascot, Coworth Park is known to be one of the closest – and most fun – country house hotels to London. Here, the rest of the world seems to disappear; a good thing for Prince Harry when he hunkered down here the night before marrying Meghan. Whether it’s spa treatments or segway trails, horse rides, croquet on the lawn or Michelin-starred dining, there is a treat for everyone. All within just 45 minutes from the capital. Book it.
