Nestled in the middle of 200 acres of beautiful countryside in Ware, Hertfordshire, you will find the historic Hanbury Manor Marriott Hotel & Country Club. As you approach the hotel down a long gravel driveway, you can’t fail to be impressed by the size of the hotel and its multiple wings. Hanbury Manor really does look picture perfect, it is no wonder that it is the location of choice for many brides. This charming Jacobean-style manor house is the perfect mix of old and new. Upon arrival greeted by smartly dressed staff that open the large glass front doors, as you step into the hotel you will find, wood panelled lounge rooms, grand open fireplaces, beautiful paintings, ornate ceilings combined with modern and luxurious amenities, not to mention a modern and relaxing spa.
Hanbury Manor is so rich in history, dating all the way back to the 16th century and in 1923 was converted into a convent school. The manor was transformed in 1934 with the addition of a gym, dormitories, a three storeyed tower and a new chapel. It wasn’t until the late 1980’s that the estate was redeveloped over a three year period into a 5 star hotel and country club. Today Hanbury Manor is owned by the Marriott group. So much more than just a hotel, Hanbury Manor is a leisure retreat boasting a luxury spa and 18 hole golf course.
If you are looking for a weekend away from the city, Hanbury Manor is located just 10 miles north of greater London and under 20 miles from Stansted airport. There is plenty of parking and you feel as though the hotel is completely tucked away and you have escaped the hustle and bustle of modern day living.
There are 161 spacious hotel rooms to choose from including deluxe rooms and suites. All hotel rooms include complimentary WiFi, flat-screen TV’s and luxury bedding. During my visit I stayed in a double deluxe room. The large double bed I slept in a was incredibly comfortable and the room was really spacious.
I was really impressed by the leisure facilities at Hanbury Manor. The large indoor heated swimming pool is well designed, surrounded by a jacuzzi, wet rooms and plenty of relaxing spa loungers. There is a relaxation area opposite the spa reception offering a selection of regular and herbal teas. This is a nice area to relax and wait if you have opted for a spa treatment, before your therapist comes to whisk you away to one of the well-appointed and cosy treatment rooms. The Spa at Hanbury Manor offers a full range of restorative treatments including massages, body wraps, facials and nail services. Elemis, Decléor and Jessica Nails are the product houses of choice. During my stay I booked myself in for a facial and a head and scalp massage, both were divine! I would highly recommend treating yourself to something from the spa menu whilst you are there!
If like me, you also enjoy staying active when having weekends away, the gym at Hanbury Manor is state of the art and for those who like to play squash or tennis, courts available. There is also a jogging and fitness trail and over 200 acres of private land to explore.
Foodies are in for a treat as hotel guests can choose from a range of food options, from afternoon tea in Hanbury’s award winning restaurant to a more laid-back bite to eat at the Vardon’s, located within the golf club. Dinner is served in the Cast Iron Grill which offers a tempting English style menu from grass fed beef, pasta dishes and seafood. If you live for deserts like I do you must try the create your own ice cream sundae. The waiting staff bring you a small order form with boxes to tick for the ice cream flavours, extra naughty ingredients and toppings, just delicious!
When it is time to enjoy a drink or two, the Oak Hall and cocktail bar reflect the classic Jacobean design of this elegant hotel. The impressive layout and interior is beautiful at anytime of year, but during winter months you cannot beat cosying up by the stunning fireplace with your favourite tipple.
Afternoon tea at Hanbury Manor is sumptuous. The selection of delicious teas to choose from is extensive. I really enjoyed the fruit tea selection. It was hard to leave any tasty sandwich, cake or scone behind, but don’t worry if you can’t manage it all the helpful staff will bring you a box to takeaway. Afternoon tea was made even more enjoyable by the luxurious and traditional surroundings, It is lovely to look up and admire the decorative ceilings, twinkling chandeliers and historic paintings on the walls.
Hanbury Manor offers a wide range of packages to choose from including luxury spa days, evening retreats and golf breaks. It is worth checking the special offers on their website which change regularly.
If you do decide to venture from the hotel during your stay you could choose to visit the nearby Paradise Wildlife Park which offers a range of animal experiences and is ideal for families. Or you could take a look around the Historic Hatfield House, park and gardens which is just 30 minutes drive away.
Hanbury Manor certainly stands out as one of my highly recommended UK based hotels because I love the Hotel’s combination of historic charm with plenty of character fused with modern facilities, beautiful food and a wonderful spa.
Hanbury Manor Marriott Hotel and Golf Club
Ware
Hertfordshire
SG12 OS
United Kingdom
