The Langley: A Country Retreat 30 Minutes from London on the Elizabeth Line
Thursday 22 January 2026 12:53 pm
By: Adam Bloodworth, Features Journalist
In an era where urban life often demands a quick escape, the Elizabeth Line has revolutionised access to rural tranquillity. The Cotswolds, long favoured by celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres and Beyonce for its blend of countryside charm and London proximity, now faces competition from the easterly stretches of Buckinghamshire and Berkshire. These areas, once considered distant, are now seamlessly connected to the capital, offering a new wave of luxury hotels that provide both convenience and a deep connection to nature.
A Historic Gem with Modern Flair
While Coworth Park near Slough and Maidenhead is renowned for its style and Dorchester Collection affiliation, The Langley stands out as a more intriguing option. Located just a ten-minute Uber ride or a 35-minute scenic walk from Langley Elizabeth Line station, this hotel has undergone a spectacular transformation. Purchased and renovated by Below Deck star Khalid Affara in 2019, the property had served as municipal offices for decades after its last family ownership ended in 1945.
The renovation masterfully blends historical grandeur with contemporary design. Notable enhancements include four sheer glass windows flanking the entrance, which cleverly manipulate perspectives by turning outdoor columns into interior features. Similarly, near the old orangery, floor-to-ceiling glass windows transform what appears to be an external pathway into an internal one, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow.
Modern touches are evident throughout, yet they respect the building's majestic heritage. For instance, neon blue and green lighting revitalises the grand staircase in the lobby, providing a striking contrast to the collection of 17th-century oil paintings adorning the walls. Although not original to the building, these artworks add to the historic ambiance. Large wall spaces painted brilliant white are left unadorned, reflecting a modern curatorial approach that avoids clutter and highlights the architecture's elegance.
Dining and Ambiance
The hotel's European-inspired restaurant, Cedar, offers a culinary experience that matches its sophisticated setting. Standout starters include beef carpaccio with truffle vinaigrette, shallots, parmigiano, and toasted hazelnuts, as well as house-smoked duck pastrami with blood orange, balsamic jelly, and Jerusalem artichoke. For mains, the beef cheek wrapped in pastry—a creative take on Beef Wellington—and a rich veal scallop with porcini mushroom are particularly commendable.
While the food is bold and flavourful, the restaurant's maximalist decor, featuring statement wallpaper, chairs, and chandeliers, can feel overwhelming, drawing the eye in too many directions. In contrast, The Churchill Bar offers a more subdued and historically sympathetic space. With dark wood panelling and plush couches, it invites relaxation and slumber, regardless of the hour.
Activities and Amenities
Set within 130 acres of Langley Park, The Langley provides ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation. The park retains a rugged charm, with fallen trees left untouched and partially excavated Ha-Has encouraging adventure. Vast stretches of undisturbed grassland evoke the feel of Hampstead Heath, while a spectacular bougainvillea garden boasts over a hundred varieties. Historically, guests of Charles Spencer, 3rd Duke of Marlborough, who commissioned the estate as a hunting lodge in 1738, enjoyed horse and carriage rides here. On clear days, Windsor Castle is visible in the distance, offering a rural vista that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
The hotel's spa facilities include a lap pool, steam room, sauna, and heated water features with jet massages. Uniquely, there is a female-only area comparable in size to the unisex spa, catering to the local Muslim community. Treatments such as the Espa Active Glow From Within Facial offer relaxation, though some may find them more aesthetic-focused, lacking extractions.
For outdoor enthusiasts, bikes are available for hire to explore Langley Park and the adjacent Black Park, famed as a filming location for Bond movies and classics like Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Its proximity to Pinewood Studios means A-list actors often stay here, enjoying privacy and peace after long days on set. Additionally, Heathrow Airport is just a 20-minute drive away, adding to the convenience for international travellers.
Practical Information
Rooms at The Langley start from approximately £340 for a standard double. The hotel is easily accessible, with Langley station around 30 minutes from central London on the Elizabeth Line, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a quick escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
