Fancy a break but don’t want to head too far away? Sophie Hewitt of Visit Herts recommends ten of the best staycation spots in the county.
Summer has arrived, and so have our ten top staycation locations in Hertfordshire. From luxury glamping retreats to manor house getaways—and some surprising accommodation options in between—we guarantee you’ll find something inspiring for your next Hertfordshire break. Better yet, we’ve included some of our favourite spots nearby for dining delights and days out, so all you need to do is choose your favourite.
1. Bethnal & Bec
Our first getaway accommodation is a real star of Instagram, with their dreamy reels regularly transporting us to their rural haven. Whether you choose Bethnal, Bec, or their newest retreat, The Foaling Box, you can expect pure sustainable luxury. Enjoy a super king bed, bedroom cinema, roll-top bath, firepit, outdoor Jacuzzi bath, and more. With countryside on your doorstep, chic interiors, and even dog-friendly options, it’s no wonder these picture-perfect accommodations are award-winning.
Nearby Dining and Activities: For dinner, you can cook in your kitchen, pre-order one of Bethnal & Bec’s dine-in boxes, or head to the Fox and Duck in Therfield for gastro-pub favourites and local produce. The next day, visit Crossover Blendery’s Taproom to taste wild-fermented beers made from locally sourced ingredients.
2. Aubrey Park
Set down winding country lanes between St Albans and Hemel Hempstead, Aubrey Park is your next check-in. Stylish and contemporary rooms, tranquil woodland, and a setting within a listed building make this independent hotel one of our favourite hidden gems. Plus, it’s dog-friendly, so your four-legged friend is welcome too.
Nearby Dining: For dinner, head to Hertfordshire icon Lussmanns. With sustainability at its heart, you can expect the very best in seasonal, local produce at its St Albans location, near the 11th-century cathedral.
3. The Grove
If you haven’t stayed at The Grove, what are you waiting for? This five-star hotel is the pinnacle of luxury, with every detail, from the crisp white sheets and beautifully styled rooms to the Bamford spa products, exuding luxury. Choose between newly refurbished mansion suites or deluxe rooms in the contemporary West Wing.
Dining Options: For dinner, choose from The Glasshouse’s around-the-world feast, pop-ups at The Potting Shed, British classics at The Stables, or Indian cuisine at Madhu’s. For a unique summer experience, book the immersive Feast on Cloud 9, which serves a nine-course tasting menu in a vintage hot air balloon basket.
4. Champneys Tring
The original health resort, Champneys Tring, is ready to pamper you to perfection. Settle into peaceful rooms with countryside views and all the trappings of a luxurious spa hotel. When you’re ready to relax, the spa awaits with its Instagrammable pool, award-winning beauty treatments, and 170 acres of countryside.
Nearby Activities: The following day, visit Puddingstone Distillery for a gin tour. Learn how founders Ben and Kate Marston craft their award-winning Campfire Gin, see the stills, taste gin cocktails, enjoy samples, and take home a gin glass.
5. Knebworth House
Stay in the heart of Knebworth Park at the Gardener’s Cottage, a cosy three-bedroom retreat for up to six adults. Enjoy a fully equipped kitchen, cosy board games by the log fire, or relax in the naturally landscaped gardens.
Nearby Dining: For dinner, visit Rump & Wade in the historic Stevenage Old Town for a menu of British classics crafted from local produce.
6. Hanbury Manor Marriott Hotel & Country Club
Experience the elegance of a country estate at Hanbury Manor. Stay in Jacobean-style rooms, enjoy afternoon tea overlooking manicured gardens, take a dip in the indoor pool, or play golf on the Jack Nicklaus II-designed course.
Nearby Activities: The next day, visit Henry Moore Studios and Gardens to explore 70 acres of rolling countryside that feature artist Henry Moore’s iconic sculptures.
7. DoubleTree by Hilton London Elstree
Visit DoubleTree by Hilton London Elstree
Welcome to Hertfordshire’s filming territory with DoubleTree by Hilton Elstree. Enjoy all the treats and luxuries of a Doubletree by Hilton, including a warm chocolate chip cookie upon arrival and their Sweet Dreams luxury mattress.
Nearby Activities: Visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter to explore sets like Privet Drive, the Forbidden Forest, Professor Sprout’s Greenhouse, and Diagon Alley. Peer into the prop cupboard and see the magic of the special effects that brought the films to life.
8. Down Hall
Indulge in a luxurious break at Down Hall, set in a splendid country mansion. Enjoy individually designed bedrooms that reflect the estate’s grandeur, from suites to exquisitely decorated prestige rooms.
9. Pendley Manor
Pendley Manor’s Grade II listed house is sure to impress with its 35 acres of rolling grounds and a stunning Tudor revival building. Each room showcases heritage with a modern twist, featuring plush and sophisticated interiors.
Nearby Dining: In the evening, dine at the award-winning Oak Restaurant, which offers British fare made with the finest ingredients. Afterward, enjoy drinks in the wood-panelled Shakespeare Bar.
10. Church Farm
This not-for-profit farming, food, care, and education farm is a hidden hideaway for a rural stay. Nestle down in Church Farm’s Wood Cabin or Bell Tent for a peaceful break, free from the stresses of daily life.
Dining Options: For dinner, head to the on-site farm shop to pick up fresh local produce, home-grown fruit, and vegetables. Then, cook up a storm and enjoy it beside the firepit.
Explore these staycation spots in Hertfordshire and find your perfect escape without venturing too far from home.
