In our experience, this countryside gem near London offers a taste of English luxury without the big-city hustle. Picture yourself lounging by an indoor pool or indulging in a spa treatment after a day of exploring nearby St. Albans.
The rooms are comfy and spacious, and you’ll find two restaurants on-site for when hunger strikes.
Now, let’s talk straight: This place isn’t cheap, and you’ll need to grab a taxi or rent a car to get around easily. But if you’re looking to splurge on a peaceful getaway that’s still within reach of London’s sights, Sopwell House might be just the ticket.
This hotel is perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape or anyone wanting to recharge their batteries in style.
History buffs will love being close to St. Albans’ Roman ruins and medieval cathedral, while shopaholics can easily pop into London for a day of retail therapy.
Good To Know
- Sopwell House is a Georgian country house hotel located in Saint Albans, Hertfordshire, UK, offering a relaxing countryside retreat near London.
- The hotel features spacious, elegantly decorated rooms, and exclusive access to the Cottonmill Spa with an indoor pool, gym, and wellness facilities.
- Guests can enjoy dining experiences at the hotel’s two on-site restaurants, Omboo (Asian cuisine) and The Brasserie (British fare).
- The hotel has received high ratings from guests, with excellent scores for staff, facilities, cleanliness, and comfort.
- Sopwell House is easily accessible, located 40 minutes from central London by car and 30 minutes by train, with free private parking available.
Hotel Overview and Location
Sopwell House Hotel is a Georgian Country House Hotel located in Saint Albans, Hertfordshire, UK.
The hotel’s address is Cottonmill Lane, Saint Albans, AL1 2HQ, United Kingdom.
With a rating of 8.5/10 from recent guests and an excellent location score of 9/10 from 816 reviews, the hotel is well-regarded.
Central London is just 40 minutes away by car and 30 minutes by train, making it an ideal base for exploring the city.
The hotel’s convenient location and high ratings suggest it’s a popular choice for travelers seeking a relaxing countryside retreat within easy reach of London.
Accommodation and Facilities
The rooms at Sopwell House Hotel are spacious and elegantly decorated, featuring flat-screen TVs, Sky Sports, tea and coffee making facilities, and complimentary Elemis toiletries.
Guests have access to an impressive array of facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, gym, steam room, sauna, and two vitality pools.
The hotel’s Cottonmill Spa offers complimentary access from 3 PM on arrival day until 11 AM on departure day.
Sopwell House also boasts two on-site restaurants: Omboo, serving Asian cuisine, and The Brasserie, offering British fare.
With high ratings for its facilities and amenities, the hotel provides a luxurious countryside retreat for its guests.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
Guests have rated Sopwell House Hotel highly, with an overall score of 8.5/10 based on 816 reviews.
The hotel received particularly strong marks for its staff (8.9), facilities (8.9), cleanliness (9.1), and comfort (9.1).
Guests praised the spa, friendly staff, and quality of the breakfast, but noted mixed reviews on room comfort and value for money.
The hotel’s excellent location, just 40 minutes from central London, also contributed to the positive feedback.
Dining at Omboo
What sets Sopwell House Hotel’s Omboo restaurant apart is its unique dining experience inspired by Asian spice routes. Open Wednesday to Sunday, the restaurant offers a menu that takes guests on a culinary journey, featuring flavors from across the continent.
Diners can expect a range of dishes, from fragrant curries to delicate sashimi, all expertly prepared using the finest, freshest ingredients. The restaurant’s elegant yet relaxed ambiance complements the refined cuisine, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic evening or a lively gathering with friends, Omboo promises to delight your senses and leave a lasting impression.
Dining at The Brasserie
At Sopwell House Hotel’s The Brasserie, guests can enjoy a la carte breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a focus on British cuisine and vegetarian and vegan options. The menu features classic dishes like fish and chips, steak frites, and roasted chicken, as well as lighter options like salads and sandwiches.
| Dining Option | Hours |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | 7 AM to 10 AM |
| Lunch | 12 PM to 2:30 PM |
| Dinner | 6 PM to 9:30 PM |
Guests can also indulge in a selection of decadent desserts and a well-curated wine list. The Brasserie’s relaxed atmosphere and attentive service make it a popular choice for both hotel guests and local diners.
Spa and Wellness Offerings
Sopwell House Hotel boasts an impressive array of spa and wellness facilities, catering to guests’ relaxation and rejuvenation needs.
Guests can enjoy complimentary access to the Cottonmill Spa from 3 PM on arrival day until 11 AM on departure day. The hotel features an indoor swimming pool, gym, steam room, and sauna, as well as two vitality pools.
Visitors can indulge in a range of Elemis treatments and therapies, ensuring a truly pampering experience.
Whether seeking to unwind or re-energize, the hotel’s spa and wellness offerings provide a tranquil oasis for guests to recharge and rejuvenate during their stay.
Policies and Accessibility
Guests must be at least 18 years old to check in at Sopwell House Hotel.
Check-in time is 3 PM, and check-out is 11 AM.
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary depending on the accommodation type.
Pets aren’t allowed, but children of any age are welcome.
The hotel offers free private parking, and an electric vehicle charging station is available on-site.
Additional charges may apply for certain services and facilities, including spa treatments.
Getting to Sopwell House
Reaching the Sopwell House Hotel is made convenient through various transportation options.
Located in Saint Albans, Hertfordshire, the hotel is just a 40-minute drive from central London and a 30-minute train journey. Guests can easily access the property by car, with free private parking available on-site.
For those traveling by public transport, the nearest train station is St Albans City, a short 5-minute taxi ride away. The hotel also features an electric vehicle charging station, making it accessible for eco-conscious travelers.
Whether by car or train, the Sopwell House’s excellent location ensures guests can seamlessly reach this Georgian country house retreat.
Questions About Staying Here
What Is the Dress Code for the Restaurants?
The dress code for the restaurants is not specified, but guests are expected to dress smartly. Casual attire is generally acceptable, though very casual or swimwear may not be permitted.
Are There Any On-Site Activities for Children?
While the hotel does not explicitly list children’s activities, the indoor pool, gym, and access to the Cottonmill Spa suggest there are amenities families can enjoy. The hotel welcomes children of all ages.
Is There a Shuttle Service Available to Nearby Attractions?
There is no mention of a shuttle service being available from the hotel to nearby attractions. The hotel information focuses on its own facilities and does not indicate any complimentary transportation options to external destinations.
Can Guests Book Packages or Special Promotions?
Guests can book various packages and special promotions, such as spa breaks, romantic getaways, and dining offers. Many hotels offer these types of deals to enhance the guest experience and provide additional value.
What Sustainability Initiatives Does the Hotel Have in Place?
The hotel has an electric vehicle charging station on-site, supporting sustainable transportation. It also provides complimentary spa access, encouraging guests to enjoy the facilities without additional environmental impact.
Worth The Stay
Sopwell House Hotel offers an idyllic countryside escape just outside London. Theres some good luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining, and rejuvenating spa treatments. With its historic charm, modern amenities, and impeccable service, the hotel provides an unparalleled blend of comfort and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil retreat from the city.