insideKENT Magazine Issue 29 - August 2014 | Page 119

GETAWAYS

Luton Hoo HOTEL, GOLF AND SPA
Nestled in the heart of Bedfordshire, Luton Hoo Hotel – 'Hoo' from the Saxon word
meaning 'spur of the hill' – offers stately luxury, elevated atop 1,000 acres of beautiful,
rolling parkland. Nothing less than spectacular, this breathtaking Grade-I listed mansion
and surrounding estate redefines opulence in every sense of the word. BY GEMMA DUNN
Boasting a rich history that spans over 250 years,
Luton Hoo was for the most part a private
residence, last owned by Julius Wernher, a
diamond magnate renowned for his penchant
for lavish French interiors. In 1999, it was snapped
up by Elite Hotels, a four-strong portfolio of
outstanding country house hotels, renowned for
their individual charm and character.
Today, regarded one of Britain's greatest
treasures, Luton Hoo is a five-star hotel, resolute
in its ability to act as a relaxing haven, in which
to enjoy life's luxuries. In addition to the hotel's
250-acre, 18-hole encircling championship golf
course, there is a luxurious spa; country club;
shooting range; two award-winning restaurants;
24-hour bar; 228 rooms; self-contained
conference centre, Warren Weir; and a staggering
1,000 acres of parkland, including a large
serpentine lake, which extends to over 50 acres.
Tucked away down a meandering driveway,
Luton Hoo's immaculate rolling green lawns and
charming parkland sets an idyllic scene for its
concluding Mansion House. Dripping with
grandeur, its regal presence is a theme that
continues throughout, from the busting Great
Hall to its well-appointed guest rooms and
beyond.
Escorted to my royal quarters for the
evening, my guest and I were allocated one of
the mansion's spectacular suites. Transporting
guests back to a bygone era, the hotel's traditional
rooms channel classic, periodic design to offer
interiors that are brilliantly timeless, as opposed
to old fashioned. Think woven carpets, intricate
tapestries, rich hues, handcrafted wooden
furnishings, and you're halfway there.
The suite also incorporated an impressive
marble-panelled bathroom, complete with a
corner Jacuzzi bath and my favourite feature of
all, a huge balcony with a gallery view of the
estate. In addition, all modern day amenities were
present, while thoughtful extras — a welcome
note, evening turndown and homemade fudge
– made for a personal touch.
Much to my delight, the room highlighted
Elite's unwavering bid to preserve and champion

the notable history of Luton Hoo. Despite
undergoing a £60 million refurbishment in 2007,
during which the hotel was transformed into a
five-star retreat, Elite’s refusal to lose sight of its
properties' age-old charisma, is a true testament
to the brand.
Another focal room with much reverence
to years gone by – and our dinner date for the
evening – is the mansion's award-winning
Wernher Restaurant. Fronted by executive chef,
Kevin Clark, Wernher serves up an exquisite
dining experience, offering both British classics
and contemporary dishe ́ݥѠ