A Serene Escape: Pennyhill Park
Distance from London: 90-minute drive or just under 2 hours by train and bus.
Nestled just a stone’s throw from the bustling heart of London, Pennyhill Park serves as a tranquil haven where the clamour of city life fades into a whisper. Spanning an impressive 120 acres of lush parkland, the estate boasts an air of grandeur while maintaining an intimate, village-like charm. Backed by the serene Swinley Forest, guests are enveloped in nature’s embrace, creating a perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Touring the Manor House
At the heart of this magnificent estate lies the ivy-clad manor house, which radiates elegance and warmth. From the moment you step inside, sweeping staircases invite you to explore the intricate architecture, adorned with stone archways and cozy seating areas. Each nook offers a place to unwind, inviting you to bask in the peaceful atmosphere before you embark on adventures around the property. As we glanced around, hints of the spa beckoned us, promising opulent experiences ahead.
Delighting in Spa Amenities
Descending the hill towards the renowned spa, excitement welled up within us. The multi-level spa is an oasis, boasting both indoor and outdoor pools, laconium rooms, salt steam rooms, juniper saunas, and even delightful ice igloos. It is a vibrant space, where the laughter of fellow spa-goers harmonizes beautifully with the soothing ambiance.
With pregnancy in mind—both my sister-in-law and I being seven months along—the spa provided tailored recommendations through their “Pregnancy Spa Journey” pamphlet. This initiative alleviated any worries about which treatments were suitable during this special time, allowing us to immerse ourselves in calming sensory showers and tepidarium experiences without hesitation.
Private Cabanas for Ultimate Relaxation
Our first day was elevated by the luxury of an outdoor cabana, a private retreat where we could lounge post-spa exploration. Each cabana came thoughtfully equipped with private loungers, refreshing soft drinks, and delicious snacks. My personal highlight was the copper tub, where I could soak and unwind after indulging in various spa amenities. The provision of 111SKIN sunscreen, serums, and eye masks further ensured that our relaxation time was nothing short of extravagant.
Luxurious Accommodations
Our stay was enhanced by the elegance of our junior suite, situated within the historic manor. With unimpeded views of the spa and the breathtaking Surrey Hills, we were greeted by soft blue and grey tones throughout the room. The decor celebrated local history through paintings that paid tribute to the region’s beloved sport of horse racing. Comfort was paramount, with pregnancy pillows and silky sheets elevating our rest, ensuring we arose refreshed for more adventures.
Culinary Delights at Hillfield Restaurant
Dining at Pennyhill Park is an experience unto itself, particularly in the Hillfield Restaurant, which prides itself on hyper-local fare. The dinner menu features a detailed map showcasing suppliers from the Surrey area. For my main course, I opted for the remarkably juicy lamb loin—a dish that not only satisfied my palate but was served in an ideal portion size. Don’t skip the sides! The beef-dripping hand-cut fries are a culinary revelation, complementing any meal beautifully.
Rejuvenation and Pampering
After cozying up on our first evening, we rose eager to embrace another day of pampering. We both treated ourselves to the calming Harley Street Facial with 111SKIN, which worked wonders on my skin, delivering hydration and a radiance that felt like pure magic. My sister-in-law took full advantage of a 60-minute pregnancy massage, specifically designed to relieve tension in the lower back and hips—a necessity during the final trimester.
With rejuvenation etched into our beings after the two-day retreat, we left Pennyhill Park revitalized, ready to embrace the closing months of our pregnancies and tackle the everyday challenges ahead with renewed energy.
Address: London Road, Bagshot, Surrey, GU19 5EU
Price: Doubles from £440 per night