The Grove Hotel: A Luxurious Country Retreat Near London
The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. The Grove Hotel, located just outside London in Chandler’s Cross, Hertfordshire, stands as one of the UK's most Instagrammed hotels, but what is it truly like to experience in person? Lizzie Edmonds and her family recently checked in to this celebrated destination to uncover its charms firsthand.
Location and Accessibility
Positioned 18 miles north of London in Watford, The Grove offers an ideal rural weekend escape for city-dwellers seeking a quick getaway without lengthy travel. Accessibility is a key strength: the hotel is conveniently situated near the M25 and M1 motorways, or just a 20-minute train ride from Euston to Watford Junction, followed by a brief 10-minute taxi journey. For entertainment enthusiasts, it is also a short drive to the Harry Potter Studios, adding to its appeal.
Vibe and Atmosphere
The Grove blends old-school grandeur with modern aesthetics, creating a high-end, ornate, and slightly flashy ambiance. The Grade II listed 18th-century mansion features elegant-yet-quirky lounges and a library, alongside 25 rooms. In contrast, the contemporary West Wing, added in 2003, houses the majority of the 189 rooms, the Sequoia Spa, and the renowned Glasshouse buffet restaurant. This section showcases modern art, statement chandeliers, and a minimalist design, often attracting celebrities like top footballers and famous faces.
Service and Accommodations
Restaurant staff are gracious and adept at handling families with young children, while reception personnel are exceptionally helpful. However, minor issues with housekeeping, such as delayed responses to bedding problems, were noted. Rooms in the West Wing range from Classic to Deluxe categories, with Deluxe rooms offering separate walk-in showers and rolltop baths. While functional, some guests might expect more personality given the £300-plus nightly rate, though mansion suites provide unique charm. All rooms include Nespresso machines, Disney+ on televisions, Bamford products, and terraces or balconies. A highlight for families is the Scandiborn Sleepover package, featuring teepee beds and toys for children.
Dining and Facilities
The Glasshouse restaurant is a standout institution, offering extensive buffet options at breakfast and dinner, plus live cooking stations for items like pancakes, eggs, fresh pasta, and sushi, with excellent catering for dietary needs. Additional dining options include The Stables gastropub and Madhu's Indian restaurant. Facilities abound with activities such as archery, cycling, axe throwing, and laser clay pigeon shooting, alongside an 18-hole championship golf course. The Sequoia Spa, recently refurbished for £1.6 million, features a 22-metre pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, and treatments starting around £200 per hour.
Accessibility and Family-Friendly Features
The Grove offers two wheelchair-accessible Classic rooms with wider doors, wet rooms, and alarms, plus lift access in most West Wing areas. Dogs under 30kg are welcome for a £50 fee per stay. Family-friendly amenities include interconnecting rooms, cots, additional beds, babysitting services, and children's activity packs on arrival. Kids aged three and under eat free, while those four to twelve receive half-price meals, though note that children's activities like Anoushka's Kids’ Club are seasonal or weekend-only, and the spa is adults-only with a separate children's pool area.
Final Verdict
Best thing: The Glasshouse buffet, a memorable culinary experience. Perfect for: Couples or families seeking a quick city escape, or golf enthusiasts. Not right for: Those desiring a rustic, remote getaway. Instagram opportunities abound throughout the property, aligning with its celebrity appeal. Lizzie was a guest of The Grove Hotel, providing an insider's perspective on this luxurious Hertfordshire haven.
