5 London airports, 5 luxury stays

It’s time to banish those drives down the motorway at the crack of dawn to catch that early morning flight. Here at the Epicurean, we know that you work hard for your holidays and deserve to maximise on every second of that luxury and relaxation. So, why not start your getaway just that little bit earlier and arrive at the airport in plenty of time, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, with one night of luxury shut-eye already in the bag?  We’ve found the perfect hidden treasures for you to stay in before you embark on your journey because there is nothing quite like a luxurious B&B to begin your R&R. The finest hospitality near Heathrow – Cliveden House, Taplow If you have nowhere to land your helicopter, Cliveden House has you covered. Spend a night in this grandiose stately home which comes complete with its very own landing pad. Nestled in the National Trust grounds of Berkshire, experience decadent and luxurious hospitality at its finest. Each suite is named after a prominent guest of the Cliveden House and is flourished with elegant furnishings and antiques. Why not treat yourself to a sand jewel scrub massage or take a dip in the Canadian hot tubs? It may only be a 20 minute drive from Heathrow but Cliveden House may be harder to walk away from than you think – don’t let it make you miss your flight. Rest your head in Stansted – Linden House, Stansted Arrive with the ambient lighting accentuating the beautiful black and white Tudor beamed exterior of Linden House. Each guest room is individually designed with its own British flair providing the ultimate in luxury for your home away from home before your trip. Soak away that pre-holiday stress in the pearly white roll top baths before indulging in gourmet British dishes. Your four-poster bed will, without doubt, provide you with sleeping bliss and with Stansted Airport just a 10 minute drive away, your morning will be just as leisurely as your evening. Getaway at Gatwick – Old House Inn, Copthorne Hidden away in the countryside is West Sussex’s hidden pre-holiday treasure. Arrive at the Old House Inn and be greeted by charmingly wonky roof tops and latticed windows that frame this gorgeous countryside inn. Drop off your bags in one of the six en-suite rooms, complete with clawfoot baths, before heading down to the cosy dining area. The restaurant dishes up inventive and seasonally inspired creations using only the finest and most local ingredients. What’s more, after your hearty, home cooked breakfast, you can park your car across the road at Cophall Parking where your vehicle will be kept safe and sound before being whisked seven minutes away to begin your journey from Gatwick Airport. A Victorian boutique in Luton – The Leaside Hotel, Luton Drive up towards this architectural gem and experience quintessentially British comfort and style. The Leaside Hotel offers a boutique stay in a historic Victorian Villa with no two rooms alike. You’ll find Victorian opulence with a contemporary twist in the Huckleby Suite, while the chic and modern Coach House Suite features a Jacuzzi bath for two. Sit back with a local ale from the hotel’s traditional British pub or relax on the spacious terrace surrounded with blooming foliage. For dinner, dine in the Brazzerie Azure restaurant where you will be spoilt for choice from their extensive menu. Your quaint room will play host to the perfect night sleep before your mere 3 mile journey to Luton airport. In the heart of London City – Aloft, London Countryside hospitality may not be available when flying from London City Airport, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some luxury and comfort before your flight. The Aloft provides the perfect bolthole with airy and contemporary suites boasting sweeping views of East London and Canary Wharf. Soak in the view from the indoor pool with floor to ceiling windows and don’t forget to enjoy a cocktail on the elevated terrace amongst the London skyline before jetting off from The London City Airport, just minutes away. Nicole Harley is Editor at The Epicurean. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.