With London promising so much beauty, sophistication and variety, there comes with it a profound appreciation for short but exclusive escapes that deliver both relaxation and indulgence. For the well-travelled Londoner, these breaks are more than a change of scenery; they offer complete immersion into the finest experiences, a rejuvenation of the mind and elevation of the spirit. Below is a selection of unique and elegant destinations for a weekend getaway from London.
Countryside Chic in The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is a picture-perfect escape that blends British heritage with understated luxury. Famous for its stone cottages, green landscapes and historic charm, it offers a serene retreat from city life. Within this tranquillity, the Thyme Hotel stands as a refined hideaway, featuring lush gardens, a curated spa and a farm-to-table restaurant known for its seasonal British flavours. The Thyme Hotel truly captures the essence of the Cotswolds’ elegance and charm.
For a more intimate, eco-conscious experience, The Wild Rabbit is a boutique hotel celebrated for sustainability and sophisticated design, with a Michelin-starred restaurant offering inventive British cuisine.
The Cotswolds offers activities for relaxation and adventure alike. Enjoy private village tours, exclusive wine tastings, wellness retreats with bespoke spa treatments or, for the more active, horseback riding, clay shooting and golf, all guided by experts for a seamless experience.
Wilderness Retreats in the Scottish Highlands
For a luxurious retreat that promises natural beauty and solitude, the Scottish Highlands offer an exceptional escape. The rugged landscapes, untouched wilderness and ancient castles set the scene for an adventure that is both majestic and serene.
At Inverlochy Castle, guests are treated to five-star service in a setting that feels like stepping into a storybook. This 19th-century castle offers splendid interiors, breathtaking views and a sense of privacy that makes it ideal for an indulgent retreat into nature.
Alternatively, The Fife Arms combines the elegance of a historic estate with the intrigue of a contemporary art gallery, offering a distinct mix of luxury and artistic flair. The hotel is adorned with original artworks, enhancing the guest experience with a sense of creativity and exploration.
In the spirit of the Highlands, a private whiskey tasting tour through some of Scotland’s most exclusive distilleries promises a true taste of Scotland, while a helicopter tour provides a bird’s-eye view of the many hidden lochs, rugged cliffs and secret beaches.
Tradition Meets Modern Luxury In Hampshire
Just a short drive from London, Hampshire’s countryside offers a peaceful yet refined escape. The Georgian estate of Heckfield Place provides an idyllic backdrop, where farm-to-table cuisine, botanical spa treatments and exclusive cultural experiences make for an unforgettable stay. Each aspect of Heckfield Place celebrates sustainability and elegance, creating an experience that feels authentically English.
For a classic countryside escape, Four Seasons Hampshire provides an expansive estate with modern luxuries, from horseback riding and falconry to traditional garden experiences. It is a quintessentially English retreat that combines sophisticated living with pastoral charm.
Hampshire’s experiences focus on wellness and culture, with exclusive fitness programs, yoga sessions amid lush gardens and horticultural workshops that offer an immersion into local botanical beauty. Culinary events feature locally sourced ingredients paired with fine wines, providing a true taste of Hampshire’s culinary landscape.
The City Of Lights In Paris
Accessible by flight or train, Paris offers an unparalleled weekend of culture, glamour and culinary wonder. The perfect stay begins at Le Bristol Paris, an iconic hotel that combines timeless elegance with exceptional service. With its sun-dappled courtyard, lavish interiors and three Michelin-starred dining options, Le Bristol creates an atmosphere of pure Parisian luxury.
For a more modern touch of sophistication, the Hôtel Plaza Athénée on Avenue Montaigne provides an opulent setting, just steps away from the haute couture boutiques and the city’s most glamorous shops. Here, every detail is designed to indulge, from the silk-lined suites to the world-renowned restaurants.
While in Paris, exclusive shopping experiences allow for private viewings in top fashion houses, personally tailored by stylists to capture each guest’s unique taste. For art aficionados, guided gallery tours offer insights into the famous Parisian art scene, arranged with a private advisor who can introduce clients to gallery owners and curators. It goes without saying but dining is something of a main event. Book a table at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants or hidden wine cellars in the heart of the city, where private tastings showcase the finest French vintages.
Italian Glamour At Lake Como
Few places encapsulate glamour and wellness quite like Lake Como. Known as the playground for Europe’s elite, Lake Como combines Italian sophistication with breathtaking natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a luxurious weekend. Villa d’Este offers a stunning lakeside experience, with opulent Renaissance charm, manicured gardens and a sense of grandeur that feels almost timeless.
For those desiring a modern touch, Mandarin Oriental, Lake Como offers elegant suites and villas, each with a private spa and breathtaking views. It is a serene haven that combines traditional Italian style with contemporary luxury.
Days on Lake Como are best spent exploring its crystalline waters on a private boat tour, stopping at secluded spots for intimate picnics. Dining options include private meals hosted by Michelin-starred chefs in exclusive settings or curated shopping excursions in Milan, where a personal stylist and chauffeur will ensure an indulgent experience.
A weekend getaway can be transformative and filled with style and indulgence. Living in London means the world is on your doorstep so whether you are planning a short getaway just outside of the City or boarding a flight to another country, each destination promises a perfect blend of relaxation and opulence for a truly memorable escape.