Meet The Member - Sopwell House, St. Albans
sopwell house, st. albans
We caught up with our members at the beautiful Sopwell House to uncover what makes this historic hotel a standout destination in St. Albans.
Hello, it’s great having you as a member of We Are St Albans. Sopwell House is a luxury country house hotel located in St. Albans. Could you tell us about the history of the hotel?
Thank you, we’re happy to be a part of We Are St. Albans. Sopwell House has a rich history, originally built as a Georgian country house and once the private residence of the Mountbatten family, relatives of the British royal family. Dating back to the 18th century, it has evolved into a luxurious hotel that blends historical charm with modern elegance. Its beautiful architecture, lush gardens, and contemporary amenities make it a standout destination in St Albans.
Your Club at Cottonmill Spa has won many awards for its cutting-edge technology and expert treatments. What can your guests expect from a spa day with you?
Guests can expect a relaxing and high-quality experience at The Club at Cottonmill Spa. Following a full refurbishment in 2019, the spa offers state-of-the-art facilities, including hydrotherapy pools, panoramic saunas, and peaceful relaxation areas. Three are two areas to the spa. Cottonmill features a 14m pool, outdoor terrace, two poolside hot tubs, a sauna and steam room. Thes facilities can be accessed by hotel and Cottonmill Spa Day guests.
Within Cottonmill is an inner sanctuary, The Club at Cottonmill, which serves as an exclusive retreat, offering additional spaces such as the spa gardens, with double cabanas, outdoor hydrotherapy pool, hot tubs and additional seating. Guests can also enjoy lunch in The Pantry or unwind in the rose relaxation room post treatments. Our dedication to excellence has earned us a number of regional and national awards. We were recently awarded Best Day Spa, at the Conde Nast Awards for Excellence recognising the quality of our facilities and services.
How many restaurants do you have and what kind of catering options can those dining with you expect?
We offer a variety of dining experiences at Sopwell House. Our newly refurbished Brasserie offers British classics, think Dorset crabs or Cornish mussels – finished with a sticky toffee pudding or an artisan British cheese board. Guests can also enjoy Omboo, our vibrant pan-Asian restaurant, which also hosts Afternoon Tea. For a more relaxed setting, The Lounge next to our Octagon Bar and bright, airy conservatory provide a casual dining offering to guests. Whether it’s a light bite, a social dining experience, or a private event, we cater to all occasions with carefully curated menus and exceptional service.
Sopwell House has recently undergone significant refurbishments. Can you tell us more about the updates and what guests can look forward to?
We have been going through some exciting refurbishments to enhance our guest experience. Our Octagon Bar has been completely redesigned, creating a stylish yet comfortable space to enjoy drinks and social gatherings. We’ve also updated the bar area in our corporate and events space, giving it a fresh, modern feel for meetings and celebrations. All of our rooms have been completely refurbished, offering a fresh new look while keeping the warmth and comfort our guests love. Our lounge areas have also had a refresh, making them even more inviting and relaxing. Our Brasserie is also now open following a full refurbishment and rebrand. We’re excited to welcome guests back to enjoy the refreshed space and elevated dining experience.
Your exclusive Mews Suites are nestled within beautifully landscaped gardens, designed by Ann-Marie Powell, a gold award winner at both the RHS Chelsea and Hampton Court Palace Flower Shows. What unique experiences or features can guests enjoy in the Mews?"
Our Mews Suites offer a truly private and luxurious retreat. Separate from the main hotel, access to the Mews is through private gates, ensuring a secluded and tranquil stay.
Each suite provides a home-away-from-home experience. Guests can choose from a selection of individually designed suites and cottages, each offering its own unique charm. Some feature elegant four-poster beds, cozy fireplaces, in-room baths, and private terraces, while others include cedar wood spa baths or high-end kitchenettes for a more self-sufficient stay. Guests also have exclusive access to a shared hydro pool, adding to the sense of relaxation and indulgence.
Whether for a romantic escape or a special occasion, the Mews Suites provide a peaceful retreat with all the luxury and comfort of the hotel.
Given Sopwell House is a luxury hotel with modern conveniences but set within a Georgian period property, how do you harmonize the old and the new with the design/decor?
We take great care in blending the character of our Georgian heritage with modern luxury. The original period features, such as grand fireplaces, elegant sash windows, and classic architectural details, have been thoughtfully preserved to maintain the charm and history of the building. At the same time, our interiors have been designed with contemporary touches—plush furnishings, stylish lighting, and high-end amenities—to create a comfortable and sophisticated atmosphere.
What can guests expect from your rooms within The Mansion House?
Guests staying in The Mansion House can expect a luxury experience with a perfect blend of comfort and style. All rooms have recently been recently refurbished, offering a fresh, modern look while maintaining the charm of the country house setting and historic Georgian building. Each room is spacious and beautifully designed, featuring stylish furnishings and high-end amenities that ensure a comfortable stay. Guests can unwind in luxurious en-suite bathrooms and enjoy peaceful views of the surrounding gardens.
The Octagon Bar is one of the newest additions to Sopwell House. Do you offer a signature cocktail that guests can enjoy while soaking in the beauty of the Bar?
The Octagon Bar, one of the newest additions to the hotel, offers a stylish and unique setting for guests to unwind. Along with our expertly curated selection of cocktails, which are inspired by thy hotel’s history, we offer a range of signature drinks to suit all tastes. Highlights include the Cottonmill Green – inspired by our spa to the Greek Prince, and the Battenberg Wine. Along with our cocktails, we have our own award winning Sopwell House London Dry Gin.
The beautiful surroundings of the bar provide the perfect backdrop to enjoy one of our special cocktails and relax in comfort.
Sopwell House is located in St. Albans. What is special about the location?
St Albans is a historic city known for its rich heritage. Just a short distance from London, it offers a peaceful countryside escape while remaining easily accessible. St Albans itself is known for its cathedral, Roman history, and markets, providing plenty for visitors to explore. Whether guests are looking for a relaxing retreat or a chance to discover the area's history and culture, Sopwell House provides the perfect base.
Finally, what sights in St Albans and the surrounding area, are must-sees for guests of the hotel who are new to the city?
Guests new to St. Albans should begin with a visit to St Albans Cathedral, a magnificent historic site at the heart of the city. Verulamium Park, with its Roman ruins and lakeside paths, offers a relaxing stroll, and the Verulamium Museum provides insight into the city’s Roman past. The Clock Tower is worth climbing for panoramic views, and St Albans Market (held on Wednesdays and Saturdays) is perfect for browsing local food and crafts. For those wishing to explore further, Hatfield House offers stunning gardens and royal history just a short drive away, while Heartwood Forest is ideal for peaceful countryside walks.