Luxury Country Hotels Outside London: A Haven of Elegance and Tranquility

When the hustle and bustle of London life gets overwhelming, escaping to the countryside becomes an enticing option. Nestled amidst the rolling hills, lush meadows, and picturesque villages just outside London are some of the most luxurious country hotels in the UK. These havens of elegance and tranquility offer not only world-class amenities but also the charm and serenity that only the British countryside can provide. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a family retreat, or simply a quiet place to unwind, these luxury country hotels offer a perfect escape.

1. Cliveden House, Berkshire

Cliveden House is a name synonymous with luxury and history. Located in the beautiful Berkshire countryside, just 40 minutes from London, this stately home has been transformed into one of the UK's most luxurious hotels. The estate boasts 376 acres of stunning gardens, woodlands, and parklands, offering guests a tranquil escape.

Rooms and Suites

Cliveden House offers 38 rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated with antique furniture and sumptuous fabrics. The rooms offer stunning views of the gardens, the River Thames, or the surrounding countryside. Some suites even feature private hot tubs and terraces, adding an extra touch of luxury to your stay.

Dining Experience

The Cliveden Dining Room is an award-winning restaurant that offers a fine dining experience like no other. With a menu that changes with the seasons, the restaurant showcases the best of British cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients. For a more relaxed dining experience, the Astor Grill offers a menu of classic British dishes in a cozy setting.

Spa and Wellness

The Cliveden Spa is a sanctuary of relaxation, offering a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. The outdoor pool, surrounded by the estate's gardens, is the perfect place to unwind on a sunny day. The spa also features an indoor pool, hot tubs, a sauna, and a steam room.

Activities

Guests at Cliveden House can enjoy a variety of activities, including boating on the River Thames, exploring the estate's gardens, or simply relaxing with a good book in one of the hotel's many lounges. The hotel also offers a range of outdoor pursuits, such as clay pigeon shooting, archery, and tennis.

2. Coworth Park, Ascot

Coworth Park, located in Ascot, is a country house hotel with a contemporary twist. This luxurious retreat is set in 240 acres of Berkshire parkland and offers a perfect blend of modern luxury and traditional elegance. Just an hour's drive from London, Coworth Park is a popular choice for those looking to escape the city without venturing too far.

Rooms and Suites

Coworth Park offers 70 rooms and suites, each designed with a modern touch while still retaining the charm of a country house. The rooms are spacious and airy, with large windows that offer views of the estate's gardens and parkland. The suites are particularly luxurious, with features such as four-poster beds, private terraces, and large marble bathrooms.

Dining Experience

The Barn at Coworth Park offers a relaxed dining experience with a menu that focuses on seasonal British produce. For a more formal dining experience, Restaurant Coworth Park offers a Michelin-starred menu that celebrates the best of British cuisine. The restaurant's elegant setting and exceptional service make it a dining experience to remember.

Spa and Wellness

The eco-luxury spa at Coworth Park is a highlight of the hotel. The spa is set in a separate building, surrounded by meadows and woodland, offering a peaceful and serene environment. The spa features eight treatment rooms, a swimming pool, a gym, and a relaxation room. The treatments are designed to promote wellness and relaxation, using natural and organic products.

Activities

Coworth Park offers a range of activities for guests to enjoy, including horse riding, polo, and golf. The hotel has its own equestrian center, with facilities for both beginners and experienced riders. Guests can also explore the estate on foot or by bike, with numerous walking and cycling trails to choose from.

3. The Grove, Hertfordshire

The Grove is a luxury hotel set in 300 acres of Hertfordshire countryside, just 18 miles from central London. This former royal hunting lodge has been transformed into a five-star hotel that combines modern luxury with historic charm. The Grove is known for its beautiful gardens, world-class golf course, and exceptional dining options.

Rooms and Suites

The Grove offers 215 rooms and suites, each designed with a contemporary style. The rooms are spacious and feature large windows that offer views of the gardens or the golf course. The suites are particularly luxurious, with separate living areas, marble bathrooms, and private balconies.

Dining Experience

The Grove offers a variety of dining options, including the Glasshouse, a buffet-style restaurant that offers a wide range of international dishes. The Stables offers a more traditional dining experience, with a menu that focuses on British classics. For a special occasion, the hotel's fine dining restaurant, Colette's, offers an exquisite menu that showcases the best of seasonal British produce.

Spa and Wellness

The Sequoia Spa at The Grove is a luxurious retreat, offering a range of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate. The spa features a large indoor pool, a sauna, a steam room, and a fitness center. The spa also offers a range of holistic treatments, using products from luxury skincare brands.

Activities

The Grove offers a wide range of activities, including golf on the hotel's championship course, tennis, and cycling. The hotel also has its own walled garden, where guests can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. For those looking to explore further afield, the hotel is ideally located for visiting nearby attractions such as the Warner Bros. Studio Tour and the historic city of St Albans.

4. Gravetye Manor, West Sussex

Gravetye Manor is a historic country house hotel set in the heart of the West Sussex countryside. This Elizabethan manor house, surrounded by 1,000 acres of gardens and woodland, offers a truly unique and luxurious experience. Just an hour's drive from London, Gravetye Manor is the perfect place to escape the city and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the countryside.

Rooms and Suites

Gravetye Manor offers 17 rooms and suites, each individually decorated with a blend of traditional and modern furnishings. The rooms are cozy and intimate, with views of the gardens or the surrounding countryside. The suites are particularly luxurious, with features such as four-poster beds, open fireplaces, and freestanding baths.

Dining Experience

The dining experience at Gravetye Manor is one of the highlights of the hotel. The restaurant, which has held a Michelin star since 2015, offers a menu that celebrates the best of British and French cuisine. The restaurant's setting is equally impressive, with large windows that offer stunning views of the gardens.

Spa and Wellness

While Gravetye Manor does not have a dedicated spa, the hotel offers a range of in-room treatments, including massages, facials, and aromatherapy. The hotel also offers yoga classes and guided walks in the surrounding countryside, allowing guests to relax and unwind in a natural setting.

Activities

Gravetye Manor offers a range of activities for guests to enjoy, including exploring the hotel's beautiful gardens, fishing in the hotel's private lake, and walking in the surrounding woodland. The hotel also offers guided tours of the gardens, allowing guests to learn more about the history and design of this unique estate.

5. The Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire

The Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire is a luxury country retreat set in 500 acres of rolling Hampshire countryside. This historic Georgian manor house has been transformed into a five-star hotel that offers a perfect blend of traditional charm and modern luxury. Just an hour's drive from London, the Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire is an ideal destination for a relaxing countryside escape.

Rooms and Suites

The Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire offers 133 rooms and suites, each designed with a blend of traditional and contemporary furnishings. The rooms are spacious and feature large windows that offer views of the gardens or the surrounding countryside. The suites are particularly luxurious, with features such as separate living areas, marble bathrooms, and private terraces.

Dining Experience

The Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire offers a variety of dining options, including Wild Carrot, a restaurant that offers a menu of modern British cuisine. The hotel's bar, The Library, offers a selection of fine wines, cocktails, and afternoon tea in a cozy and relaxed setting. For a more casual dining experience, the hotel also offers outdoor dining at the Barbecue Terrace during the summer months.

Spa and Wellness

The spa at the Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire is a haven of relaxation, offering a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. The spa features an indoor pool, a sauna, a steam room, and a fitness center. The spa also offers a range of holistic treatments, using products from luxury skincare brands.

Activities

The Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire offers a wide range of activities, including horse riding, fishing, and clay pigeon shooting. The hotel also has its own equestrian center, with facilities for both beginners and experienced riders. Guests can also explore the estate on foot or by bike, with numerous walking and cycling trails to choose from.

Conclusion

The luxury country hotels outside London offer an unparalleled experience of elegance, comfort, and tranquility. Each hotel provides a unique blend of history, luxury, and natural beauty, making them ideal destinations for those looking to escape the city and unwind in the peaceful British countryside. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family retreat, or simply a place to relax, these hotels offer the perfect setting for an unforgettable stay.