Review Author

Lauren Harano

Contributing Writer

What once served as the hunting grounds of the third Duke of Marlborough in the Buckinghamshire countryside is now a sprawling luxury hotel. Following a six-year, multi-million-dollar renovation, The Langley opened as a hotel in 2019, transforming the historic mansion into a luxurious 41-room retreat–complete with a restaurant, bar, drawing room, and expansive spa. Set on 150 acres of formal gardens and parklands, this property offers an experience that feels more like an exclusive retreat than a traditional hotel.

The Langley is made up of two main buildings: the Main House, which was built between 1756 and 1760, and the Brew House, an 18th-century structure that’s had quite a few lives over the years–from clock tower to horse stables to brewery. The Main House takes the spotlight, a stunning Palladian-style manor with 20 spacious rooms and suites. Designed by Dennis Irvine Studio, the interiors strike the perfect balance of cozy and luxurious, with plush carpets, velvet furniture, and heavy drapes. The bathrooms add a touch of sophistication with Athenian marble, underfloor heating, and roll-top bathtubs that are perfect for a long soak. For the ultimate stay, the Duke of Marlborough Suite is the crown jewel–a three-bedroom suite with large bay windows and crystal chandeliers that make it feel like a true royal experience.

The Brew House, just across the yard from the Main House, adds even more charm to The Langley with its 21 bedrooms and suites. The building’s rustic vibe is on full display with oak beams, bespoke furniture, and rustic accents that make each room feel unique. It’s the perfect spot for those looking for a more intimate, laid-back vibe, while still enjoying the luxury the hotel has to offer. Just like the Main House, the suites in the Brew House are named after notable figures in The Langley’s history, including the Duke of Marlborough, Winston Churchill, and the Duchess of Marlborough. Fun fact: Churchill, a distant relative of the third Duke of Marlborough, often stayed here and even named his daughter Sarah after the Duchess.

Dining is a treat at Cedar Restaurant, the hotel’s signature spot located in the Main House. The restaurant has a restored 1775 white marble fireplace and antique mirrored chandeliers, giving the space an upscale yet comfortable atmosphere. Head Chef Alfonso Alloca leads the kitchen, serving up seasonal dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the menu stays grounded in fine dining and authentic Italian-inspired dishes.

For a more relaxed experience, head to The Drawing Room for an afternoon tea experience. The walls are bathed in Fromental Travertine silk wallpaper and a curated collection of artwork, making the room feel as if it’s frozen in time. Guests can enjoy classic sandwiches, freshly baked scones with homemade jams and cream, and delicious desserts made by Pastry Chef Francesco Martella.

On the flip side, the Churchill Bar offers a discreet and swanky atmosphere, with leather chairs, tartan-inspired carpets, and Regency-era bookcases filled with classic titles. The bar is stocked with a carefully curated selection of spirits, including fine whiskeys, bourbons, and cognacs, and features a menu of classic cocktails. What’s more, a wood-burning fireplace adds to the allure. 

The Langley’s spa is a standout, covering a massive 17,222 square feet, making it one of the largest hotel spas in Europe. Located beneath the hotel, this subterranean spot is designed to help guests relax and recharge with a range of soothing treatments, from body scrubs and facials to couples massages and more. The indoor pool is perfect for a leisurely swim, and the sauna and relaxation areas have plenty of space to unwind. 

The hotel’s showstopper is the subterranean Spa at The Langley. Designed by interior architect Martin Hulbert, the 17,222-square-foot wellness space is one of the largest hotel spas in Europe. It includes a 53-foot indoor marble-lined pool, hammam, amethyst steam room, Himalayan salt sauna, infrared sauna, juniper wood sauna, vitality pool, ice fountain, and pink Himalayan salt room. There’s also a ladies-only spa, a men’s barber shop, and a fitness facility with a spinning studio and cardio equipment overlooking the estate.

Guests can choose from a menu of treatments using products from 111Skin and Sothys Paris. The spa’s advanced diagnostics include body composition analysis and movement screening, which can be used to build bespoke fitness and wellness programs.

Beyond the spa, The Langley offers a heated outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, and bicycles for exploring the estate. Falconry, clay pigeon shooting, and horseback riding can be arranged. The grounds, landscaped by Lancelot “Capability” Brown, invite long walks through woodland, formal gardens, and open parkland.

Despite its rural setting, The Langley sits only a short drive from Heathrow Airport and less than an hour from central London, making it a convenient escape for travelers who want countryside calm without venturing too far from the city.

Top Takeaways

Location: Iver, Buckinghamshire, England

Rating: Five-star

The vibe: Historic English country estate meets polished modern wellness retreat.

Food + Drink: Cedar Restaurant serves seasonal, Italian-inspired cuisine in a grand dining room. The Drawing Room offers traditional afternoon tea, while the Churchill Bar specializes in classic cocktails, whiskey, bourbon, and cognac.

Amenities: 17,222-square-foot spa; indoor and outdoor pools; fitness center; tennis court; bicycles; restaurant; bar; afternoon tea; 24-hour front desk; concierge; valet parking; pet-friendly rooms

Our favorite thing about the hotel: The enormous subterranean spa is practically a destination in its own right.

What’s nearby? Windsor Castle, Black Park Country Park, Stoke Park, Cliveden House, and central London

Any personal neighborhood recs? Spend a morning exploring Windsor Castle, then return to the hotel for afternoon tea and a long spa session.

Rooms: 41 rooms and suites

Pricing: Rates start at approximately $500 per night.

Closest Airport: London Heathrow Airport