Holiday at home

With holidays cancelled and the threat of rapidly changing government advice regarding quarantine, a luxury break at home could be just the ticket. You can do it in style and safety in Herts

After months of closure to help combat the spread of coronavirus, in July hotels and other destination venues were given the green light by the government to reopen, provided they could meet safety measures. Extra cleaning, taking guest’s temperature, staff wearing PPE, social distancing, sanitiser stations and other solutions have been employed to help stop the spread of the virus while opening up the domestic tourism economy. For those deprived of a holiday this year and concerned about air travel and potential quarantine, the county’s hotels and glamping sites offer luxury, seclusion and pampering – the chance to take a break, relax and just feel, well, normal. We’ve picked our top selection in Herts, all with their own charms, so whatever kind of break you’d like, and with family, friends, as a couple or just on your own, this should give you inspiration.

PENDLEY MANOR, TRING

Compete with peacocks in its landscaped grounds and woodlands, Grade II listed Pendley Manor is a secluded Tudor revival house in 35-acres that has just completed a four-year £15m refurbishment.

It’s worth staying just for the sophisticated rooms, individually decorated to ‘reflect the bucolic ideal of life in Hertfordshire’. There are those with fourposter beds, original fireplaces (right) and what the hotel calls ‘indulgent family rooms’.

But this is a spa destination too, with new facilities thanks to the refurbishment. Take a plunge in the pool, use the state-of-the-art gym or enjoy ESPA treatments.