Approaching Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf and Spa, is just a little bit special. A driveway paved with woodland on either side winding up to the estate is like a scene from a film…actually it is a scene out of a few films. After a minute or so you’ll see the Mansion House set on the border of Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire. It was here we were lucky enough to spend a night and explore all there is to offer.
Boasting an 18 hole golf course, restaurants, bar, spa, swimming pool there is plenty to keep you occupied. The grade II Mansion House is quite the spectical. A tour enlightened us to a few secrets, a favourite location for the Queen in times of past, we saw the room Johnny Deep had stayed for two weeks, which had a secret exit in case women (and probably some men) chased him to bed and the room which had featured in Three Weddings and a Funeral.
Rooms and suites are of some size, here a standard room rocks in at what London would consider a Junior Suite, when you think this place is a 25 minute train ride away from St Pancras you can see how much further your money goes. Each room and suite has been through an extensive restoration to restore it to its full former glory and it is impossible not to notice the immense detailing throughout the whole building.
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In the main Mansion, The Wernher Restaurant offers a fine dining experience in elegant surrounds – The interior designer also worked on The Ritz in London and similarities in the decor are clear to see. Whilst over at the spa, either a short walk or ride in one of the on site cabs the pool has a slightly more modern design with steam room, sauna and hydrotherapy pool. We indulged in some of the treatments, a deep tissue massage which loosened us up and a nourishing facial which left our skin looking plump and fresh.
The grounds themselves are really quite something and even boast a pet cemetery – look out for the ‘Bye Toodles’ stone – rock garden, croquet pitches, lakes and wild pheasants. Perfect for some afternoon strolling. In need of some R&R but pushed for time? Then one night at Luton Hoo is just what you need.
Rooms range from £260 upwards.
Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa, The Mansion House, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3TQ
www.lutonhoo.co.uk