First look inside De Vere Latimer Estate following £7m refurb

Nicknamed The Spy House because of its connections with the Second World War, Grade I listed De Vere Latimer Estate has reopened following a £7million renovation.

Situated in Latimer, on the Buckinghamshire/ West London border, the refurbishment uncovered and restored many original features, as well as subtly celebrating the hotel’s connection to a secret history.

My partner and I were invited to look around the red brick Tudor-style mansion and experience what the three star hotel had to offer guests.

Situated within 30 acres of idyllic grounds with sweeping views of the Chess Valley, you would never know you were just five miles from Junction 18 of the M25 and close to Heathrow Airport, for the beauty spot offers peace and tranquility.

While the building stays true to its rich heritage, expect 21st-century comfort and style everywhere, from the bar and restaurant to the corridors and your room.

The refurbished original sweeping staircase with stained glass windows leads guests to 31 new deluxe rooms and suites that were previously meeting rooms and offices, bringing the total number of guestrooms to 205.

Sleeping

All guestrooms feature free Wi-fi and flat screen TVs, whilst suites and deluxe rooms come complete with king size beds, fluffy robes and slippers as well as luxury bathroom toiletries.

Our double deluxe room boasted stunning views of the manicured grounds and the fresh, elegant, country chic decor made us feel extremely relaxed and spoilt.

Eating

The new 1838 Restaurant and Bar, which is open to members of the public as well as hotel guests, is located in the mansion house and features an open kitchen cooking up locally sourced, seasonal British dishes.

Guests can choose to dine in the modern, wooden-floored restaurant, with soft green touches and indoor trees, or head outside to the courtyard and dine under the trees by candle light.

My partner and I sat inside next to a gorgeous tree (which I thought was real) and ordered from the a la carte evening menu which featured the likes of pan roasted duck breast, bubble and squeak risotto and a range of steaks.

The open kitchen added a sense of energy and theatre and the restaurant was buzzing with excited diners.

Despite how busy the staff were (a wedding was taking place in the other room) we didn't have to wait long before our delicious dishes arrived.

The open kitchen added a sense of theatre to the restaurant

To start I went for smoked salmon (£9) which was gorgeously fanned out across my plate and sprinkled with boiled egg white and yolk which I thought was a novel idea.

My main was just as tasty - pan fried sea bream with seared king scallops (£26).

Accompanied with hot sauteed potatoes and a fresh pea shoot salad, it was surprisingly hearty and filling.

My partner was just as impressed with his mighty sirloin steak (£28). The 28-day aged Buccleuch beef was cooked perfectly to his liking and served with thick and fluffy chips and all the trimmings.

The pudding selection was fabulous, featuring lemon and lime ricotta cheesecake (which my boyfriend devoured), Eton mess, pecan pie and what I opted for - the fresh fruit carpaccio (£6).

My dessert consisted of tropical fruits including dragon fruit, melon and pineapple topped with the most refreshing pink grapefruit sorbet. It was luscious.

We finished off a delightful bottle of the house white - Kudu Palins Chenin Blanc - before retiring to our huge bed and then returning to the restaurant for a full English buffet breakfast the following morning.

Pampering

The hotel does have a spa but it is a bit dated and seems to be the only element that wasn't part of the refurbishment.

We did however enjoy a few lengths in the huge pool and lounging about with the sauna and steam room at our finger tips.

Before we checked-out we wandered around the pretty grounds in the glorious sunshine.

De Vere Latimer Estate is a beautiful venue for a romantic getaway, a spot of sumptuous afternoon tea and of course a top wedding destination.

Oozing with charm and historic character, the hotel celebrates the military background, yet blends delicate and stylish furnishings to ensure each guest has a welcoming and enriching stay.