The Grove is just the place for a secret getaway

This smart retreat offers an escape from city life but it is less than 15 minutes from central London...
1/10
Amira Hashish26 July 2019

Discover a secret garden on the outskirts of London...

Where? Set in 300 acres of Hertfordshire countryside. Just 18 miles from central London it takes 14 minutes to get there by train from Euston but feels like a sprawling countryside retreat.

The lowdown: the former home of the Earls of Clarendon now houses a spa, championship golf course and excellent restaurants.

What room? There is a room to suit every kind of lifestyle, from family to dog friendly. Styles include the more traditional Grade II listed mansion rooms or the contemporary West Wing. We enjoyed a modern option with doors that opened directly onto the gardens. A great outlook and a lovely setting to soak up before a stroll around the grounds. The ESPA toiletries are refreshing and there is complimentary WiFi.

On the menu: There are several food and drink options on site. The Glasshouse has recently been renovated, there are seasonal dishes at The Stables or finger sandwiches and delicate pastries as part of the afternoon tea. Pop up restaurant The Potting Shed is returning to the Walled Garden this July. Beautifully kitted out with plants, the menu is carefully curated with fresh ingredients.

Anything else I should know? The hotel is launching its first outdoor cinema throughout August. The secret garden themed pop-up is showing family-friendly films such as Matilda and The Jungle Book as well as classics like Dirty Dancing and Pride and Prejudice. Set in the Walled Garden, there is an outdoor pool and private urban beach with bean bags, snacks and drinks. Overnight hotel packages invite guests to experience the cinema at their leisure, with packages also available for guests dining at The Glasshouse or The Stables.

Get pampered: The Sequoia Spa is a stylish space with a black mosaic-tiled pool, heat experience rooms and specialist treatment options. Take a dip and book a mindful massage, designed to relieve stress with a holistic experience by ESPA.

Pet friendly: Dog owners will appreciate the pooch package that includes a box with a toy, a mitt and towel to clean muddy paws and bio-degradable poop bags. Welcome dog packs can be purchased for £35 and also include treats, a bed and a trails map of walking routes around The Grove's estate and through the surrounding woodland. Dogs are not allowed in the restaurants but they are allowed on the terraces. Rather handily, there is a concierge team who offer dog sitting duties if booked in advance.

How do I book? visit thegrove.co.uk.

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