Find out more about our Hertfordshire hotel and spa

The story of Sopwell House

Our story

Sopwell House is just a short distance from London’s bustle, yet nestled right in the Hertfordshire countryside. It’s somewhere that offers all the classic comforts of a hotel, but with its own quirky character woven throughout. And while we’re family-run, we welcome everyone as if they were our own.

Why
Sopwell?

We’ve found the sweet spot between a comfy home from home and a luxury place to escape.

ESG at Sopwell House

Our whole team is committed to ESG. Discover how we champion sustainability, community, and responsible growth.

Explore ESG

Our history

This hotel has a rich and storied past, evolving from a private residence into the luxury hotel it is today.

1603

The first reference to Sopwell House as ‘New Barnes’, home to Richard Sadlier.

1665

Duchess Alice Dudley resided at Sopwell House during the Great Plague and Fire of London.

1670

Sir Harbottle Grimston, Earl of Verulam, purchased the house.

1700s

Edward Strong, a Master Mason, leased and likely developed the house.

1901

Admiral Prince Louis of Battenberg leased the house as a family home.

1945

The building was used as a home for the aged after the Second World War.

1969

Sopwell house was converted into a hotel.

1986

Abraham Bejerano purchased and developed the property.

2019

Cottonmill Spa opens its doors, following a £14m investment project.

2022

Omboo opens it's doors in July, replacing the hotel’s 2 AA rosette restaurant with a bold new dining experience focusing on cuisine from Asia and the Far East.

2023

Octagon Bar opens and sits in the most historic part of the house with the name being inspired by octagonal-shaped room that sits in its centre.

2025

The Brasserie complete the latest stage of development as the heart of Sopwell House, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week.

Today

Our luxury hotel preserves its historic charm, but we’ll always look for ways to add unique touches.