Written by Menswear Style in Travel on the 9th October 2019

With this beautiful hotel being on my doorstep, yet I hadn’t known of it, I was intrigued to find out more. Driving through little county roads and through the stunning little village of Latimer, you’re suddenly at the gates of De Vere Latimer Estate with peaceful formal gardens and 30 acres of grounds that enjoy sweeping views of the Chess Valley. It feels like a little secret hidden gem, yet Chalfont & Latimer station on the London Underground is just 5 mins away by car.

The hotel has a very interesting history to tell too. The first mention of a manor house at Latimer was recorded as early as 1194 AD. In 1331 it was leased to William Latimer and was passed down through the Latimer family until the 16th-century, when it was bought by William Cavendish. The red brick Tudor style grand mansion house that still stands at Latimer Estate today was designed by Edward Bore, most notable for his completion of John Nash's design of Buckingham Palace, completing in 1838.

During WW2, the house became the centre of top-secret activities run by MI5 and MI6 and is credited with being of similar importance to Bletchley and Wilton Park for gathering vital information that shortened the course of the war. More recently, the house was adapted as a training centre from 1971 before it was turned into a hotel in 2006. In more recent years the hotel has undergone an extensive £7m refurbishment project, bringing 21st-century touches to the rich heritage and detailing of the original building and refreshing the modern additions.

The Room 

We were lucky enough to stay in one of the best suites available. Large windows filled the room with light and provided spectacular views of the Chiltern Hills. We had Champagne on ice awaiting our arrival which was certainly a nice touch for our getaway. Suites at De Vere Latimer Estate are located in the mansion house and are the height of modern luxury. Each Junior Suite features fluffy robes and slippers, as well as king size beds, in room fridge, luxury bathroom toiletries by H2K Harrogate & free Wi-Fi.

Food & Drink 

The hotel’s 1838 Restaurant & Bar in the Mansion House is the place to come for locally sourced, seasonally inspired menus. The décor is every bit as impressive as the food; daylight streams through the glass ceiling whilst indoor trees and plants complement the colour scheme. There’s also a courtyard where you can enjoy alfresco dining. Here, trees and subtle lighting create a wonderful setting for lazy days and romantic evenings. The Huntley Bar is also a stunning space to take advantage of, whether it’s a pre-dinner aperitif or an end of the evening night-cap. The Library is cosy with comfortable chairs and original features, and is where afternoon tea is served daily.

With views over the Chess Valley and Chiltern Hills, we give a first hand review of the De Vere Latimer Estate Hotel and 1838 Restaurant & Bar .