Fanhams Hall Staycation — Her Favourite Food & Travel

Location: Ware, Hertfordshire
Price: ££ (moderate–luxury)
Overall: 3.5/5
Ideal for: Slow weekends, relaxed romantic getaways, UK staycations

This Summer, I decided to book a dreamy overnight escape at the enchanting Fanhams Hall, tucked away in the Hertfordshire countryside.

Location & First Impressions

Fanhams Hall is an exquisite 18th-century Queen Anne–style country house in Ware, Hertfordshire. Pulling up the gravel drive, past lush gardens and striking architecture, you can see that this is a special location. It’s the kind of place where time feels like it slows down.

The Accommodation

Our room was modern, stylish, and incredibly comfortable. Recently restored with a contemporary finish, it had all the hotel comforts you’d want for a countryside escape.

The double bed, was comfortable, and the room had soft lighting, clean design, and a calming colour palette that made it a joy to unwind in. Not overly fussy—just simple, spacious and lovely.

Afternoon Tea

In the afternoon, we enjoyed tea in one of the most picturesque spots on the property—a light-filled room with views out onto the manicured gardens.

It was the kind of setting that feels made for slow moments: soft armchairs, elegant tableware, and the gentle hum of conversation in the background.

The afternoon tea itself was classic and comforting, with dainty finger sandwiches, warm scones, and just the right amount of indulgent sweet treats. It was the perfect way to ease into the evening, surrounded by timeless beauty and peaceful surroundings.

Dinner

That evening, we dined in the hotel’s main restaurant, which overlooks the grounds. The gardens provided a beautiful backdrop to dinner, as did the traditional decor in the restaurant itself.

The service did let things down a little. They were noticeably short-staffed, understandably so, as two events were running at the same time, which meant long waits and a few missed details.

But we didn’t let that take away from the experience entirely. After dinner, we took our wine into the gardens and soaked in the golden-hour light. That part of the evening was magic.

Breakfast

Breakfast the next morning more than made up for the night before. Served buffet-style in a bright, airy space, there was a generous spread of fresh fruit, pastries, cereals, and a full hot breakfast selection.

Everything we tried was fresh and well-prepared and replenished regularly. It was the kind of breakfast you linger over and we were even able to take out coffees out into the garden to enjoy with the view.

Gardens and Grounds

Fanhams Hall’s gardens are something else—seren and full of character.

We wandered through formal topiary gardens, past water features, and along tree-lined paths that made us feel like we’d stumbled into a secret estate.

With benches tucked into quiet corners and winding trails to explore, it’s easy to lose an hour (or three) here.

Overall:

Despite a few service hiccups at dinner, our overnight stay at Fanhams Hall was a wonderful countryside retreat.

The modern rooms, beautiful gardens, and excellent breakfast made it well worth the visit.

It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a peaceful weekend away not too far from London—and one I’d happily return to for another slow, lovely escape.