A lovely thing about London is that, yes, it’s a world-class city that’s alive with history, culture and charm, yet at the same time, it has a smaller, village-esque feel. This is helped in part by the British capital’s proximity to rolling emerald hills and centuries-old parishes that are located just a short drive away from its urban core. And the city’s nearly 50 neighborhoods and 33 boroughs provide endless opportunities to get under the surface of London. 

Opens in a new windowThe Wellesley Knightsbridge, a Luxury Collection Hotel, London and Opens in a new windowThe Park Tower Knightsbridge, a Luxury Collection Hotel, London are each located in London’s ultra-tony Knightsbridge neighborhood. The former is situated in an Art Deco masterpiece dating back nearly 100 years, and features a live performance Jazz Lounge, and a 1920’s-era hideaway dubbed Crystal Bar. The latter offers panoramic views over the striking Hyde Park, one of London’s largest and most central reserves. Each hotel is within short walking distance to beloved retail destinations like the premium department stores Harrods and Harvey Nichols, while Knightsbridge is also centrally located, making it a perfect perch to explore all of what London has to offer, from its art-filled East End to picturesque Notting Hill and everything in between.

After a few days of experiencing London’s urban delights, set your sights on the English countryside. Your destination is Buckinghamshire, just west of London proper but miles away in terms of its serene country feel. Opens in a new windowThe Langley, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Buckinghamshire is housed in a stately former manor home that once belonged to the Third Duke of Marlborough and boasts 150 acres of formal gardens and parkland. Quite near the royal enclave of Windsor, the Buckinghamshire area has plenty of undulating hills and grand estates—vestiges of British aristocracy. The Langley itself promises a contemporary getaway into the countryside, with delicious dining, cozily appointed rooms and a modern, opulent spa. Wander the sprawling estate, once former royal hunting grounds of the third Duke of Marlborough and try your hand at quintessentially English countryside past times such as falconry, horse riding and polo.