Amy Franklyn FEPAA, Corporate Team Manager at international law firm, Bird and Bird, was lucky enough to win an over-night stay for two at Luton Hoo, at The Ask Abbie Show last October. She made her visit earlier this year with her partner, and kindly agreed to write about their experience.
My first impression as I drove onto the estate was “Wow”! It was everything I expected and so much more. As I walked into the reception area, I was greeted by the most welcoming, kind and attentive staff who immediately whisked away my bags and fetched me the key for our room! Nothing was too much trouble and that is so important in my eyes! My partner and I were then shown to a nice big red velvet sofa in the very attractive lobby bar where we spent a good few hours admiring the fine artwork and the very intriguing lunch/dinner and cocktail menu. After a light lunch (and a few drinks), we checked into our hotel room which was very impressive in terms of size. It was almost a similar size to some suites that we have stayed in at other venues so that was a big tick for us. Our only criticism was the size of the bed! It could have done with being slightly larger and in my personal opinion would have looked better in a room of that size. Saying that, the rooms were particularly large so perhaps any size of bed might have appeared small! We then decided it was time for a bit of relaxation at the Spa! I had high hopes given the standard so far. The spa was idyllic. It’s set in the old stable yard alongside a brasserie and offers a long list of treatments tailored specifically for your needs. You lie on a heated blanket for the duration, plus there are fresh pots of herbal tea to enjoy in the relaxation room. The infinity swimming pool looks out onto the estate and there’s also a jacuzzi, steam room and sauna that is free to use if you’re a guest at the hotel. It has a very relaxed feel, which I know is important for most guests. All that relaxation definitely worked up an appetite.
Further Scope for Indulgence
If you like to dress up and look the part you will be in your element. Dinner jacket and trousers for men (no less) and sophisticated dresses and diamonds for the ladies, don’t you know? Think marble, red carpets, fine tapestries and glittering chandeliers, with some silver service thrown in. This can only mean one thing – dinner at Wernher Restaurant! Each course was mouth-wateringly good and surprisingly plentiful for a fine dining restaurant. I won’t ruin the menu for you as it is definitely a must try! The service was second to none and, again, nothing was too much trouble! The setting was romantic, opulent and very chic. Get the picture?
If you are after a hotel that oozes charm, character and sophistication then look no further. I can see why such a hotel, has in the past, attracted guests such as the Royals, Winston Churchill and Wallis Simpson. The grounds are huge but definitely should be explored. If you aren’t a keen walker, never fear as Luton Hoo have their own fleet of specially customised London taxis to ferry guests around the estate, which unlike London Taxis are completely free of charge! No uber though, sorry! They even provide you with branded brollies and wellies so “Fill your boots”. The 18 hole, par 73 golf course is another draw!
There are excellent transport links between St. Pancras and Luton Parkway railway station which means this an easy venue to get to from either London or Cambridge. It is also one of the most convenient hotels in Luton for accessing Luton airport, which is within easy reach of cities across Europe.
Luton Hoo is one of the Elite Group of properties. You can find out more about their four gorgeous hotels at our Away Day on 23rd February. Please ask abbie.smith@thepaclub.com for more information.
