Weekend Break: The Best Country Hotels Near London
By Olivia Emily
9 months ago
Beautiful retreats for when you want to escape the big smoke
It can be hard to catch your breath in the hustle and bustle of London – and not just because of the smog. Luckily for us, a plethora of train stations and transport links mean countless rural retreats and a relaxing weekends are secretly right at our fingertips. From the woody countryside of Berkshire to chalk cliffs closer to the coast, there are countless beautiful hotels in London’s vicinity. Here’s our pick of the best country hotels near London, including how to get there.
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The Best Country Hotels Near London
Some reviews are taken our Great British & Irish Hotels Guide. You can read the full reviews online or purchase your print Hotels Guide here.
Down Hall, Hatfield Heath
With luxury interiors and ornate ceilings enhanced by an abundance of natural daylight, Down Hall is an idyllic country escape with a contemporary edge. Wander the 110 acres of surrounding woodland, parkland and landscaped gardens for a true country house experience – or, if you’re looking for something a little more restful, wind down in the luxurious Eden Spa. Settle down with a cocktail in the evening at The Fox Bar, before taking a trip to the Garden Room – Down Hall’s award-winning restaurant – for a delicious fine dining experience.
HOW TO GET THERE: The journey is around one and a half hours by car, or take the train from London Liverpool Street to Bishop’s Stortford (43 mins), and get a taxi for the last leg of the journey (20 mins)
BOOK IT
+44 (0)1279 731441
Oatlands Park Hotel, Weybridge
The Grade II listed Oatlands Park Hotel stands on the site of the Grand Tudor Palace of Henry VIII – and, especially following a multimillion pound renovation, it is fit for any king or queen. Interiors reflect the rich history, and the Italianate style and glistening chandeliers exude decadence from the moment of arrival. All rooms are elegant, spacious and supremely comfortable – our favourites overlook Broadwater Lake and the magnificent grounds, which are protected for their historic interest. The Mulberry restaurant has a similarly bucolic outlook, with far-reaching views over the Surrey countryside. La Terrazza is the hotel’s newest addition, with a retractable roof and glass bi-folding doors that offer views over the lawns.
HOW TO GET THERE: The journey is around one and a half hours by car, or take the train from Waterloo to Walton-on-Thames (35 mins), and get a bus (16 mins) or a taxi (8 mins) for the last leg of the journey
BOOK IT
+44 (0)1932 847242
The Mitre at Hampton Court, East Molesey
Set on the banks of the River Thames, overlooking the magnificent Hampton Court Palace, this hotel is a firm favourite among those in the know. Its history is quite the draw (it is a Grade II-listed building dating back to 1665, originally used as ancillary accommodation for guests of King Charles II), and interiors-lovers will swoon at the design, too. There’s also a fantastic culinary offering: The Orangery has one of the largest riverside terraces on the Thames, along with the world’s first Whispering Angel concession – a blissful space for rosé sundowners as swans and little boats glide by. Grab one of the bay window tables at the riverside brasserie 1665, before ending the night at the popular Coppernose brasserie and bar.
Royal Redesign: Inside The Mitre, Hampton Court
HOW TO GET THERE: The journey is around one and a half hours by car, or take the train from Waterloo to Hampton Court (36 mins), and walk the last leg of the journey (5 mins)
BOOK IT
+44 (0)20 8979 9988
The Royal Oak, Yattendon
Fancy a village experience near London? You’ll be greeted with a cheery welcome at this superb inn in the charming village Yattendon. It’s all that a great pub should be, from the beamed ceilings to the stocky wooden bar with proper ales on tap. Beyond the main bar and dining room lies a large sitting room with deep sofas and a huge open fire. In summer, the suntrap garden is the sort of place where bottles of rosé disappear with merry swiftness. Best to soak it all up with some of head chef Nick MacGregor’s excellent, unfussy, locally-sourced grub. You can also eat and drink in the glass-fronted orangery, where bi-fold doors overlook the garden. After a day of indulgence, a king-sized bed beckons, with luxury linens and gorgeous throws.
HOW TO GET THERE: The journey is around two hours by car, or take the train from Paddington to Thatcham (45 mins), and get a taxi for the last leg of the journey (around 20 mins)
BOOK IT
+44 (0)1635 201325
Beaverbrook, Leatherhead
Beaverbrook is a magnificent, must-visit country house hotel near London. Originally Cherkley Court – the former mansion of Lord Beaverbrook – the 19th-century wedding cake architecture and Susie Atkinson interiors are grand yet homely, romantic and fun. There’s Japanese cuisine in the dining room, stunning views of formal gardens, and a 470-acre woodland estate with a treehouse and kid’s club. The separate brick and flint Garden House offers a bar, Anglo-Italian restaurant, cookery school and 11 bedrooms. The crowning glory is the nature-based Coach House Health Club & Spa, which offers an array of carefully curated and transformative wellness experiences. All this so near London, in the heart of the Surrey Hills.
HOW TO GET THERE: The journey is around one and a half hours by car, or take the train from Waterloo to Leatherhead (around 45 mins), and get a taxi for the last leg of the journey (around 10 mins)
BOOK IT
+44 (0)1372 571300
The Retreat at Elcot Park, West Berkshire
When it comes to gorgeous hotels near London, this newly reimagined 18th-century country hotel and spa set in glorious grounds between Hungerford and Newbury, is full of character. The Retreat at Elcot Park‘s bedrooms are colourful, combining antiques with contemporary art and patterned textiles. Each suite is different: one has a copper rolltop bath in a bay window; another, a separate room with bunk beds for children. To eat, choose between 1772, a relaxed all-day brasserie, or the smarter fine-dining Pan-Asian restaurant Yü (ideally, try both). There’s a children’s zone, an Ila spa and in the courtyard, a bakery, coffee spot, wine store, and monthly farmers’ market. Active types can play games of tennis or croquet. But, in the summer, the place to be is at one of the cabanas, around the outdoor infinity pool, which has a Whispering Angel bar.
HOW TO GET THERE: The journey is around two hours by car, or take the train from Paddington to Hungerford (changing at Newbury; 58 mins), and get a taxi for the last leg of the journey (around 10 mins)
BOOK IT
+44 (0)1635 800520
Artist Residence, Brighton
The story of the Artist Residence group began thirteen years ago when Justin and Charlie Salisbury first met as students. Justin’s mum, who’d just bought a Brighton guesthouse in need of renovation, was seriously injured in an accident and 20-year-old Justin stepped in. Having no idea how to tackle the redecoration, he filled the listed townhouse with artists, asking them to decorate the rooms in return for free board. And so the first Artist Residence, successful and buzzy, was born. It was soon joined by four more: in Penzance, Pimlico, Oxford, and Bristol. The Brighton original has sea views and retro-style bedrooms, ranging from tiny crash pads to a huge suite. The two newest art bedrooms were designed by Ben Eine and Pure Evil, while artists Maria Rivans, Charlie Anderson, Fox Fisher and Jessica Albarn have designed four other fabulous rooms. There’s also the Clubhouse, a relaxed neighbourhood hangout serving breakfast, drinks and small plates.
HOW TO GET THERE: The journey is just over an hour by car, or take the Thameslink train from various London stations to Brighton (around one hour), and walk (around 15 mins) or get a taxi (around 10 mins) for the last leg of the journey
BOOK IT
+44 (0)1273 324302
The Langley, Buckinghamshire
If you’re looking for a secluded city escape, The Langley – set in 150 acres of parkland that once belonged to the third duke of Marlborough – is a good shout. Borrow Aigle wellies and reconnect with nature: amble along footpath trails, explore the gardens and The Langley Park Arboretum, play a game of tennis, or swim in the idyllic outdoor pool. Or, instead, unwind – perhaps in the secluded six-seater cinema room, or at The Langley Spa which has an array of treatments as well as vitality pools, hammamas, a juniper wood sauna and 16-metre marble-lined swimming pool. Afterwards, settle in at the Churchill Bar for fine spirits, cognac and cocktails, as well as a rare choice of cigars.
HOW TO GET THERE: The journey is just over an hour by car, or take the Elizabeth Line from Paddington Station to Langley (38 mins), and get a taxi for the last leg of the journey (around 15 mins)
BOOK IT
+44 (0)207 236 3636
Image credit: Matthew Shaw Photography
Hurley House Hotel, Berkshire
It’s the friendly, laid-back atmosphere of this boutique hotel near London – along with its immaculate and stylish decoration – that impresses as soon as you enter. A sensitive new build of 2016, it stands on the site of an old inn just outside the pretty riverside village of Hurley. Inside, Hurley House‘s ten country-chic bedrooms have a cosy feel that’s enhanced by delicate shades of pale grey, floorboards and beams, blankets and fresh flowers. But what really makes Hurley House tick is the superb cooking – with a new Japanese menu that’s second to none in Berkshire (think miso-roasted cod with steamed rice and pickled ginger). You can eat in the rustic bar or in the restaurant, which are each tastefully done up in granite, leather, oak and natural brick.
Read our review of Hurley House, Berkshire: A Country Escape
HOW TO GET THERE: The journey is around one and a half hours by car, or take the train from Paddington to Maidenhead (35 mins) and get a taxi (8 mins) or the 239 bus (24 mins) for the last leg of the journey
BOOK IT
+44 (0)1628 568500
Hare & Hounds, Newbury
The newly-renovated, 17th-century Hare & Hounds pub is celebrating a new dawn. Set at the foot of Newbury in the beautiful village of Speen, dogs are welcomed with open arms, and Newbury Racecourse is only a stone’s throw away. The 30 individual bedrooms – some with gorgeous roll-top copper bathtubs – are housed in four stylish buildings, packed with all the charm and character of a traditional coaching inn but brought bang up to date with a contemporary twist. The Dining Room serves a menu of farm-to-table cuisine that celebrates local produce, accompanied by an impressive list of cocktails, craft beers and hand-picked wines. The Sunday Roast is fantastic, too, which you can walk off afterwards on the Berkshire Downs.
HOW TO GET THERE: The journey is around two hours by car, or take the train from Paddington to Newbury (40 mins) and get a taxi for the last leg of the journey (10 mins)
BOOK IT
+44 (0)1635 521152
The Runnymede on Thames, Surrey
It may technically be the same river, but The Runnymede on Thames feels a world away from London. This riverside retreat, just 10 minutes from Windsor, boasts a spa, seasonally heated outdoor swimming pool, pergola for al fresco dining, tennis courts and fitness centre – not to mention the impressive fleet of boats. Take a trip up the Thames on a riverboat cruise, kitted out with a collapsible roof, drinks cooler, and Bluetooth stereo. Self-navigators can hop off whenever they desire for a picnic or pub lunch – or, choose a guided tour to hear stories of the iconic sites you pass, like Windsor Castle, St Peter’s Church, and Pharaoh’s Island. Once back on dry land, settle down in the sun with a glass from the Runnymede’s extensive gin menu – bliss.
HOW TO GET THERE: You may feel a world away, but you’re very near London. The journey takes around one hour by car – or take the train from Waterloo to Egham (37 mins) and get a taxi for the last leg of the journey (5 mins)
BOOK IT
+44 (0)1784 220600
Hartwell House, Aylesbury
One of the great pleasures of visiting hotels is that they’re often very special buildings to which you’d never normally have access. One shining example is Hartwell House, a Grade I-listed stately home that was occupied from 1809 to 1814 by the exiled Louis XVIII. Inside, there are beautiful rooms with antique furniture and paintings. There’s also an extraordinary Jacobean staircase, lined with statues of the knights of Europe, leading from the Great Hall. If you think all this grandeur means pomp and ceremony, worry not: the hospitality is natural and easy-going, the bedrooms as comfortable as they are grand and the food as delicious as you would expect. And the hotel’s spa is a classically themed delight.
HOW TO GET THERE: The journey is around two hours by car, or take the train from Marylebone to Aylesbury (just over an hour), and get a taxi for the last leg of the journey (around 10 mins)
BOOK IT
+44 (0)1296 747444
The Georgian, Haslemere
Traditional and contemporary style merge at The Georgian, a Grade II listed property filled with charm, and the tenth Coppa Club property to open its doors – joining two other hotels in the brand’s portfolio. Inside, the hotel promises a comfortable and sociable stay, kitted out with 13 unique bedrooms, a cafe, bar, restaurant, lounge, and private dining space, as well as a garden terrace and large fire pit to take the edge of cool summer nights – the ultimate all-day lifestyle venue. Outside, stroll the streets of Haslemere, a charming market town with boutique shops, independent cafes, and even a vineyard and distillery.
Read our review of The Georgian Coppa Club
HOW TO GET THERE: The journey takes around two hours by car – or take the train from Waterloo to Haslemere (50 mins) and get a bus (2 mins) or walk (12 mins) for the last leg of the journey
BOOK IT
+44 (0)1428771027
Cannizaro House, Wimbledon
A quintessentially British countryside stay, without even having to leave the city. Hotel du Vin’s Wimbledon branch, Cannizaro House – which boasts 50 luxury hotel rooms and suites, with an emphasis on comfort – is a lovingly restored haven that has historically hosted the likes of Lord Tennyson, Oscar Wilde and even the last Maharajah of Punjab. Wimbledon Village is nearby, as is the All England Club, the home of tennis and where the Wimbledon Tennis Championships are held for two weeks every year. But, set within 34 acres of parkland adjacent to Wimbledon Common, you’ll feel a world away from the bright lights of the nearby city. Head to the Orangery for exquisite views over the gardens, and for a cosy aperitif or after dinner digestif, head to the inner lounge. To dine al fresco, try the Lanson Terrace for Italian influenced menus.
HOW TO GET THERE: The journey takes around one hour by car – or take the train from Waterloo to Wimbledon (16 mins) and get a taxi (around 10 mins) or walk (around 25 mins) for the last leg of the journey
BOOK IT
The Grosvenor, Stockbridge
This historic gem, The Grosvenor, sits proudly at the heart of England’s smallest town, Stockbridge. Lovingly restored to its former glory over the past few years, it’s a delightful, relaxing hotel near London, where you can celebrate and unwind – and dogs are welcome, too. 34 beautiful bedrooms mix antiques with contemporary pieces, and five fantastic eateries – headed up by Sebastian Smith – promise a delectable stay, from the elegant Market Room Restaurant with live music, to the fabulous new 1822 bar. The Grosvenor offers an abundance of sporting pursuits to boot, including fly fishing (ask the hotel for a delicious Kingfisher hamper), shooting, walking and cycling. What could be better?
HOW TO GET THERE: The journey takes around two hours by car – or take the train from Waterloo to Winchester (57 mins) and get the 68 bus (around 20 mins) or a taxi (around 20 mins) for the last leg of the journey
BOOK IT
Until the end of August, The Grosvenor is running a mid-week offer: 3-night stays for the price of 2 nights (with a complimentary cocktail), and 4-night stays for the price of 3 nights (with a complimentary 3-course dinner). Book directly and quote ‘KT0708’.
+44 (0)1264 810606
Cliveden House, Berkshire
Built for the second Duke of Buckingham’s mistress in 1666, Cliveden House is an iconic property famed as a five-star setting for lavish entertaining and scandal. Standing in 376 acres of magnificent National Trust gardens and parkland, the hotel has 47 spacious rooms and suites in the elegant main mansion. There’s also Spring Cottage, a summerhouse on the banks of the River Thames – the ultimate destination for privacy and escapism. The property has two outstanding restaurants: the opulent chandeliered Cliveden Dining Room, complemented by the relaxed informality of The Astor Grill. A luxurious spa, open to members and hotel guests is the spot for relaxation; unwind by the indoor pool before wandering into the garden where you will find the ‘Profumo’ pool – the last remaining listed outdoor pool in England.
HOW TO GET THERE: The journey takes around one hour by car – or take the train from Paddington to Maidenhead (35 mins) and get a taxi for the last leg of the journey (15 mins)
BOOK IT
+44 (0)1628 607107
The Grove, Chandler’s Cross
Set in 300 acres of Hertfordshire countryside, The Grove is one of the best country hotels near London at just 18 miles from the City. A short stroll from the historic mansion, where 12 sumptuous suites overlook stunning gardens, you’ll find the newly refurbished Sequoia spa and, beyond that, the championship golf course that played host to the 2016 British Masters. The grounds offer all manner of activities, including Asher’s Woodland Trails featuring Segway experiences, archery and laser clay shooting.
The Grove’s hidden gem in spring and summer is its enchanting Walled Garden, complete with Ralph’s Beach (think sand, deckchairs, buckets and spades), a heated outdoor pool, Jemima’s Kitchen Garden (which provides homegrown produce for the chefs), and the rustic Potting Shed, a plant-filled haven which houses the Italian-inspired Verde Kitchen restaurant. Plus, back for summer 2023 is the idyllic Everyman Secret Garden Cinema pop-up, where you can snuggle up on beanbags under soft blankets catch a film under the stars, complete with a full bar and cinema snacks like sweets and popcorn.
HOW TO GET THERE: The journey is just over an hour by car, or take the train from Euston to Watford Junction (around 20 mins), and get a taxi for the last leg of the journey (around 10 mins).
BOOK IT
+44 (0)1923 807807
Featured image: Beaverbrook in Leatherhead, Surrey
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