The Langley Hotel & Spa, nestled in the heart of Buckinghamshire, offers a luxurious retreat within a world of lovingly restored, Palladian architecture. This 18th-century property, originally built for the third Duke of Marlborough and set amidst 150 acres of parkland designed by Capability Brown, is now part of Marriott’s Luxury Collection. Following a meticulous restoration in 2019, the hotel seamlessly blends historic charm with modern opulence and is an ideal place for a couple’s indulgent festive treat.
Location
Only twenty minutes away from Heathrow and less than an hour from London, your splendid experience begins with hardly having to travel – time is the ultimate luxury of them all.
Buckinghamshire, located in Southeast England, offers a blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural attractions that make it a great destination to visit. In this instance, the quaint village of Iver was our destination to enjoy a countryside escape in an idyllic landscape steeped in history, natural beauty, and rural charm.
Driving up the fairytale tree-lined road, surrounded by autumnal parkland, we already knew The Langley was going to be something extraordinary. Arriving at the entrance, we felt transported back in time to a far more romantic era, we climbed the stairs and entered our palatial haven.
They say service can make or break any establishment, no fears here! The warmth exuding from the staff was instantaneous, expectant with my name as they opened the door and an exceptionally swift check-in.
Our Suite
The Langley features 41 rooms, divided between the Main House and the adjacent Brew House all interiors are thoughtfully designed by the Dennis Irvine Studio and took a mammoth six years to do. The rooms are elegantly appointed, combining classical design with contemporary comforts. Expect plush king-size beds, marble bathrooms, and indulgent Noble Isle toiletries. Some rooms, such as those in the Brew House, offer private terraces, making them ideal for those seeking a more secluded experience.
We had a one-bedroom suite and a “proper one”, more akin to a luxury London flat, I could happily live here for the rest of my days. We had our own separate lounge, with a full sofa, dressing table, huge television and views of the breathtaking landscape I’d just rocked up to. Next door our bed was nothing short of being an actual cloud and another TV to wind down in bed too. The bathroom was a room in itself with white and grey marble from top-to-toe leading into a wet room. Channeling Japan, my toilet washed my delicate bottom!
This was a suite we did not want to leave.
Dining
BREAKFAST
An English breakfast is more than just food – it’s a hearty, comforting tradition and the Langley’s is sublime. The best English breakfast is a harmonious combination of traditional ingredients cooked to perfection, with a balance of textures and flavours that define this classic meal. We decided to make good use of our lounge and ordered breakfast in our room, whilst comfy and cosy in our robes and the softest and pillowy slippers. We gorged on a perfectly rich and creamy fried egg, earthy mushrooms and flavoursome bacon (plus all the rest). It’s touches like these that make you feel unquestionably looked after at The Langley and that you are a family guest of theirs.
DINNER
The hotel’s dining options cater to varied tastes, with the Cedar restaurant offering refined British cuisine with Italian flair. The elegant yet intimate dining room looks over the calming grandeur of the gardens and water. I relished a tuna tartare and the most flavorful ribeye steak I’ve had in years, the kind you savour the taste of the fat – all washed down with a rich Malbec. As a further treat, we opted to forage on our cheese course brought to us in our bed (yes, that’s right) whilst we watched one of many films on offer.
For lighter meals or drinks, guests can choose the Churchill Bar, the Drawing Room, or the Spa Lounge, some traditional afternoon tea.
The Spa
One of The Langley’s standout features is its state-of-the-art spa, spanning 1,600 square meters. It includes a luxurious indoor pool, a sauna, and a wide array of treatments designed to rejuvenate. The spa’s design, which incorporates elements of natural light and earth tones, provides a tranquil escape. Their 24/7 gym equipped with the latest fitness technology adds to the wellness offerings and is honestly better than my own which I pay for monthly.
The intimate nature of the hotel allows guests to feel at ease and many walk to the spa in their robes, I followed suit. British spa culture is not as developed as say, in Italy or Holland where people understand the vital importance of wellness. The Langley stands out and ups the game and offers state-of-the-art treatments that I’ve seen nowhere else.
With so much to choose from, I went for the Akwaterra massage. This massage is a specialised spa treatment that combines traditional massage techniques with the use of heated and cooled ergonomic ceramic tools. These tools, known as Akwaterra pods or shapes, are designed to enhance the therapeutic effects of the massage. They are filled with water or gels to retain the desired temperature, offering a unique sensory experience that deeply relaxes muscles and promotes overall well-being.
The next day it was my turn for a Bamboo massage (one massage is never enough). The massage uses hollow bamboo rods of varying lengths and diameters and these tools are typically heated to provide additional therapeutic benefits, such as muscle relaxation and increased circulation, The rods are rolled, pressed, or tapped on the skin, depending on the desired pressure and technique. A bamboo massage offers a unique, deeply relaxing experience that combines the healing power of heat and massage therapy. It’s an excellent option for those looking to relieve muscle tension and de-stress in a rejuvenating way.
The spa is opulent and yet tranquil and perfect for a couple who want to unwind from life and enjoy each other again.
Grounds and Activities
The grounds at the hotel are a picturesque blend of history and natural beauty. The estate features formal gardens and parklands originally designed by the legendary landscape architect Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown. Visitors can enjoy beautifully manicured lawns, serene walking paths, and scenic views of Langley Park, which was once a royal hunting ground. The harmonious mix of classical design and tranquil greenery provides a perfect retreat for relaxation and outdoor exploration. The sprawling estate has perfect walking and cycling trails that showcase the surrounding countryside, you can partake in archery, shooting and even falconry. Bikes are complimentary and you can even borrow a pair of Argyle wellies if your urbanite attire fails you.
Now for something special. Their resident Pygmy goats, Nutmeg and Cinnamon live a wonderful life in an enclosure on the property, you can grab some feed and give them a welcomed treat.
Why go?
The Langley Hotel is a peaceful setting and that low guest density contributes to an exclusive feel. One truly receives high-end amenities, a serene environment, and access to world-class wellness facilities. The Langley Hotel & Spa is an exceptional choice for those seeking a luxurious countryside escape close to London. Its grandeur, historical significance, and top-tier facilities make it a standout destination. It’s the extra touches that make it a special destination – the helpful staff with a true warmth that cannot be contrived and that luxurious feeling of entering that bygone era of refinement.
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All imagery courtesy of The Langley Hotel & Spa.