Tucked away in the Hertfordshire countryside, yet only a short hop from London, Fanhams Hall feels like a secret you’re delighted to be let in on. The Jacobean-style mansion dates back to the early 1900s and still carries that old-world grace, softened by beautifully landscaped gardens and a calm that feels a world away from the capital, despite being so close.

There’s something about this country hotel that immediately slows you down. From the moment you arrive, it feels calm, considered, and softly indulgent. Time stretches here, conversations linger, and you don’t feel rushed to be anywhere else.

I was invited down for a truly special evening with the wonderful gals of Bloxham PR and a beautiful diverse group of content creators. We began, as all good things should, with welcome drinks before sitting down to a delicious three-course dinner. Plates were cleared and glasses were refilled. The room echoed with the easy laughter and warmth that seems to arrive effortlessly when women gather and let their guards down.

Then came the entertainment. Or rather, we were the entertainment. We made our way to Fanhams’ karaoke bar, armed with sweet treats, drinks, and fearless enthusiasm. Songs were sung with full hearts if not perfect pitch, and the night became one of those glittering memories you know you’ll return to often.

Later, I curled up in my cosy room, content in that quiet, happy way that only comes from an evening well spent and the feeling that you’ve just made friends for life. Morning brought us back together over breakfast, retelling the previous night’s antics between sips of coffee and knowing smiles. Before leaving, I took one last stroll through the estate grounds, breathing it all in, before bundling myself into the car, already missing it, and them.

A little more about the hotel itself…

Fanhams Hall is steeped in history. The Jacobean-style mansion dates back to the early 18th century, originally built as a private family home, and you can still feel that sense of heritage woven through its architecture. Grand gables, tall chimneys, mullioned windows, and warm brickwork give the house a stately presence, while inside it’s been thoughtfully reimagined for modern stays without losing its soul.

What truly sets Fanhams Hall apart is its estate grounds. Spanning acres of landscaped gardens, each area feels like its own little world. There’s a Japanese garden with still water and carefully placed bridges that invites quiet reflection, formal rose gardens that feel wonderfully romantic, and winding paths that lead you through manicured lawns and hidden corners. It’s the kind of place where a simple stroll becomes an experience in itself.

The hotel is also well known for the variety of events it hosts. From weddings and celebrations to corporate retreats, seasonal dining experiences, and private gatherings, Fanhams Hall has a way of feeling both grand and intimate at the same time. Spaces flow easily from elegant dining rooms to relaxed lounges and entertainment areas, making it just as suited to a lively evening as it is to a peaceful overnight escape.

Despite feeling tucked away in the countryside, Fanhams Hall’s Hertfordshire location keeps it refreshingly close to London. It’s ideal for those craving a change of pace without the commitment of a long journey. It’s a place where you can step out of the city rhythm and into something slower, softer, and more grounded.

In the end, Fanhams Hall isn’t just a backdrop for special moments. It’s part of them. A place shaped by history, softened by gardens, and brought to life by the people who gather there.

An Easy English Countryside Escape from London: Fanhams Hall