Sopwell House Hotel

Sopwell House, Cottonmill Lane, St Albans, Herts

When you think of a country-house hotel, you may be hard pushed to imagine one so close to the capital, but there is: Sopwell House. Located in St Albans (just 20 minutes by train from London) this Georgian hotel and spa is the perfect remedy for anyone seeking some rest and relaxation. Rooms are decorated in subtle, classic style and some have four-posters. After checking in, head straight to the Japanese-themed spa, set amid 12 acres of lush gardens with a maze of treatment rooms, a starlit steam room and a team of therapists on hand to cater to every whim. Dinner is an altogether extravagant affair with three venues to choose from. Executive chef James Chapman takes you on a culinary journey around the world from Italy to India in dishes like confit duck leg with an aromatic plum orange and five-spice sauce served with Chinese cabbage and egg noodles. KM. Doubles from £119.