Surely the easiest London escape you'll ever find...
Why go?
Whether you want to escape the city (yes, London, we love you, but sometimes we need a break), or you just need a bit of R&R away from everyday life, this super friendly, super accessible manor should be your go-to for some sustenance for your mind and body. Just a stone's throw away from London, 20 minutes by rail from London and a speedy 11 miles by road - driving from North London to its Elstree location took no time at all - Laura Ashley The Manor Hotel and it's 10 acre mash up of manicured garden and woodland surrounds are the perfect antidote to city living. All wrapped up in a cool blend of Laura Ashley interiors and old, timbered Tudor grandeur. Could things get any more comforting?
Stay in:
Sat on the site of an old Tudor house, dating back to 1540, the place underwent a massive refurbishment and yes, Laura Ashley redesign, in 2013, making this old building feel like a grandiose, yet supremely cosy home away from home the minute you walk through it's grand facade. The rooms are everything you'd hope they would be from such a beloved, home furnishings giant and have everything you need to make your night one that features maximum Zzzz's. From the luxe Premier Suite which features traditional Laura Ashley fabrics and a hugely inviting four poster, to the standard double which are roomy, plush and a space we would swap in a heartbeat in place of the cramped London bedroom back in the Big Smoke.
The vibe:
Thankfully, the old world charm is perfectly married with the Laura Ashley interiors, rather than completely abandoned altogether, with the shabby chic interiors working with the beamed ceilings and dark wood surrounds. The garden surrounds also deserve a special mention, with certain shrubs and rhododendrons being the same age of the house itself. Take some time to wonder around the grounds, take in the panoramic views of London and hey, if it's sunny, and you're feeling competitive, have a game of chess on the massive scale board in the manicured gardens reaching out from the back of the manor.
What to eat:
The Cavendish Restaurant dining room is warm and intimate, the perfect place to get your red wine on, whilst feasting on spiced Monkfish paired with Braised Endive, or melt-in-your-mouth Hereford Beef Rump and potato Mille-feuille. Our tip, after your three courses (don't skip dessert), head on through to the bar for a nightcap. If you feel yourself flagging, opt for a potent Espresso Martini, which was an instant hit, and well worthy of a return visit.
Prices start from around £100 per night for a standard double or twin room, and go up to £500 per night for the premium suite.