The Best Hotels to Book Near Hatfield House, UK

Set in a 19th-century manor house, Ponsbourne retains the historic charm of its beautiful wood-panelled rooms, which are atmospherically lit by chandeliers, with huge, plush beds. A contrastingly modern experience awaits in the grounds, where pods and domes make a cosy spot to enjoy Indian dishes like lucknowi lamb shank – all while taking in the view of 200 acres (81ha) of Hertfordshire countryside.

There’s an art deco feel to this Hatfield hotel, which opened in 1936. Gorgeous rooms exhibit the design of the era while upholding modern standards of hotel comfort. The Element Bar has similar decor and serves fantastic classic cocktails – be sure to try the old fashioned – but don’t miss the chance to enjoy a game of table football.

A gorgeous country manor converted into a luxurious hotel, West Lodge Park’s interiors have a vintage feel which extends to the comfortable guest rooms. Just as aesthetically pleasing is the view outside the windows, over Enfield Chase and the hotel’s lovely grounds. The latter include the Beale Arboretum, which is home to 800 species of tree and is a wonderful place to pass an afternoon.

An 18th-century Georgian coach house is home to rooms that have been beautifully refurbished while retaining period elements, including canopied half tester beds. The lodge sits on the grounds of Brocket Hall, which is landscaped with lakes, lawns, and two golf courses. A highlight is the Auberge du Lac restaurant – which has won three AA rosettes for its seasonal menus – offering dishes such as torched mackerel and pork terrine.

700 acres (200ha) of sprawling Hertfordshire farmland make an impossibly peaceful setting for this hotel, with rustic rooms set across converted farm buildings. Those in the farmhouse retain traditional features including wooden beams, while some offer private patios and gardens. One is even housed in a renovated shepherd’s hut, ensuring privacy and peace with lovely views over the lake.

1352 is the date of establishment displayed proudly on the front of this great building, which was once a Medieval coaching inn. Today, the Wellington’s rooms vary in character but retain traditional features – some are tartan-walled with four-poster beds, while others are voguishly red-brick, with lovely freestanding bathtubs. All are extremely comfortable, though, and feature distinctly modern Nespresso machines. The food here is well-loved: try the pan-roasted monkfish.

Restoring Welwyn’s weary travellers since 1681, the White Hart preserves original features in its modern rooms – you’ll notice the beams, if you book one in the stable block. Particularly memorable are the Boutique Rooms, featuring bathrooms with whirlpool tubs. The food at the restaurant is superb: the tasting menu includes dishes such as rare salt beef with truffle oil and balsamic reduction.

Retaining all of the original Georgian charm – but updating it to modern standards of hotel luxury – this lovely country estate promises a comfortable stay. Rooms feature mid-century modern furniture and log-effect electric fireplaces, while the Mews Suites surround a gorgeous infinity-edge hydrotherapy pool. Yet more relaxation awaits at the Cottonmill Spa, home to indoor and outdoor pools, a sauna and a steam room – plus an extensive treatment menu.

A roaring log fire, real ale on tap and hearty pub grub – the White Horse is as cosy and welcoming as you’d hope a country pub to be. That extends to the traditionally designed guest rooms upstairs. Dogs and muddy boots are welcome – which is just as well, as there’s a fantastic choice of walking trails in the town of Hertford and the surrounding countryside.