Pennyhill Park is the perfect spot for an idyllic retreat. I’m not saying it’s the ultimate weekend escape destination, but wow, it certainly ticks a lot of the boxes. Once a 19th-century country home, Pennyhill has transformed into a luxurious hotel boasting 124 rooms, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and an impressive spa. Plus, its location in Bagshot, Surrey, makes it a quick and easy trip from London.
The main house is a stunning sight, draped in ivy and exuding a strong PG Wodehouse vibe—it’s almost as if Bertie Wooster himself might pop out of an upstairs window. The surrounding grounds feature a picturesque garden, an orchard, and a sprawling 120 acres of parkland, so getting in your daily steps is a breeze. It’s a popular wedding spot, too. During our stay, we witnessed both a wedding and a proposal (two separate groups, I should clarify). Yet, the weekend didn’t seem overwhelmingly busy.
If popping the question isn’t on your agenda, there’s still plenty to entertain you. How about a games room? It’s got everything from a pool table to an arcade machine, chess board, and board games. Or perhaps a cozy screening room, complete with popcorn. If you’re feeling active, there are tennis courts, where you can serve up a bagel instead of a ring.
The spa, though, might make leaving the hotel difficult. There’s a lot to experience: an outdoor pool with a poolside bar, an indoor pool where music plays underwater (always a magical, Harry Potter-like experience), and even a pool that flows between indoor and outdoor spaces, with jets galore.
If you’re brave, try the plunge pool (pro tip: deep breaths help), followed by a quick retreat to one of the many saunas or steam rooms. There’s even an ice room to shake off any lingering effects of the previous night’s indulgence. The relaxation room? Likely to have you drifting off within minutes. And of course, there are outdoor hot tubs and a whole menu of treatments for those in need of some serious pampering.
The rooms are just as delightful. We stayed in a Luxe Junior Suite, which boasted a four-poster bed, a massive circular sofa, a desk (though I doubt much work gets done), and even a TV in the bathroom. Picture this: sipping champagne in a freestanding tub while watching Escape to the Country—now that’s living the good life. Oh, and you’ll meet Donut, the cuddly reindeer toy left outside your door if you skip housekeeping. Just don’t be tempted to take him home—though if you really bond, he’s available for purchase at reception.
Latymer
First things first: Latymer is a beautifully atmospheric restaurant. There’s a thick green carpet, wooden beams, and a central mahogany table laden with drinks. You half expect Henry VIII to burst in demanding a feast. The place has a timeless charm that makes you feel cozy and secure.
This matters because you’re likely to spend a good three hours here—the tasting menu is the only option, advertised as six courses but closer to ten when you factor in all the extras. Before the main event, a parade of amuse-bouches arrives, like movie trailers before the feature film. Each is fantastic—the carrot tart stands out, and the crab with tomato puree is so good it deserves its own mention.
Once the first course arrives—Jersey Royals prepared four ways, accompanied by mushrooms done three ways—you realize you’re in for a culinary adventure. But don’t worry, the menu changes frequently, so I won’t spoil too much. Just know that the scallops from Orkney are some of the biggest, fattest, most flavorful you’ll ever see, thanks to the cold, deep waters they come from.
The pigeon for the main course? A delight. I’m a fan of eating pigeon—it’s always satisfying to thin out the flock a bit. This one is rich, tender, and perfectly cooked. Dessert follows with a strawberry compote and peach tart featuring the flakiest pastry. And the wine? Opt for the pairings—they’re well worth it.
In summary, it’s the kind of meal Henry VIII would have loved. And after all is said and done, you can head back to your room and cuddle up with Donut the reindeer.
