Kiki’s Adventures at Taplow House – Less than an hour from London

The dog-friendly Taplow House Hotel in Buckinghamshire is just under an hour’s drive from Fulham and yet a world away.  Kiki was delighted that this trip was to be a rather shorter car journey than usual and that she would soon arrive in the countryside ready for lots of off-lead frolics and riverside walks! We packed our bags and off we went…

The Property

The hotel itself was originally built in 1568, but after a fire, was rebuilt in 1751 into the charming Georgian country house it is today, full of character and a delightful retreat for both humans as well as furry friends. Another plus is that Taplow House is equally accessible by train as by car,  with wonderful walks from the doorstep! Its proximity to London makes it perfect for an impromptu dog-friendly hotel.

Upon arrival, the contrast from city life to this tranquil haven is immediate and enchanting. Taplow House, with its storied past, is set amidst lush greenery, its Georgian architecture exuding a timeless elegance. The hotel’s history, dating back over centuries, is palpable in every corner, from the stately exterior to the refined interiors. The decor, a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Intricate period details are thoughtfully complemented by modern touches, ensuring human guests and their four-legged companions enjoy both the charm of yesteryear and the comforts of today. The sprawling, well-manicured grounds offer ample space for leisurely strolls for Kiki.

Your hotel has a spacious dining room, The Garden Room, with lovely views of the grounds and if you wish to eat with your dog you can dine in the dining room/ bar which has a roaring open fire and is very cosy – this is where we had breakfast with Kiki on Sunday morning.

The hotel’s spa facilities are a highlight, offering a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can indulge in a range of treatments, from soothing massages that melt away the stresses of everyday life to revitalizing steam room sessions. The pièce de résistance, however, is the outdoor hot tub. Set against the backdrop of Taplow House’s stunning gardens, it offers a unique experience – a warm, bubbling haven under the open sky, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Our Room

Our stay was in a charming four-poster executive double room, radiating an aura of romance and comfort. The room’s spaciousness was immediately apparent, with ample room for both humans and Kiki. The large windows provided lovely views of the gardens, inviting the beauty of the outside in. The hotel had thoughtfully provided, a plush dog bed – it paired perfectly with her favourite blanket and toy which she loves sleeping in for her pet-friendly weekend trips.  The room really was lovely and the bed was super comfortable with Egyptian cotton linen and Tempur mattress plus TV, Wi-Fi, White Company toiletries, tea and coffee making facilities plus slippers and bathrobe for our trips to the spa.  The bathroom was also spacious and luxurious.

Dog-Friendly Features

Kiki received a fabulous welcome on arrival from the Taplow House team, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to its canine guests. The grounds of the hotel are a haven for dog walks, offering diverse landscapes from manicured lawns to hidden trails and a few tree trunks lying on the ground that Kiki jumped over with delight!  She was in her element running off the lead and having fun. She also loved the fantastic circular walks which lead directly from the door so you can immediately immerse yourself in the countryside setting without having to drive anywhere.  Throughout our stay, Kiki was given lots of attention and had the most wonderful time – joining us for breakfast in the dining room on Sunday!

The Food and Service

Dining at Taplow House was an experience in itself. We dined in the elegant Garden Room, where we ate chicken liver parfait, heritage tomato salad, and for mains cod loin and wild mushroom risotto which were delicious.  Kiki had decided to give dinner a miss as she was so tired after her long countryside walk in the afternoon, so we left her happily dosing in the room. The ambience of the restaurant was complemented by attentive service, which made the meal even more enjoyable.

The next morning, Kiki joined us for breakfast in the dining room/bar where she was given a waggy welcome.  The room was gorgeous complete with a roaring fire, creating a lovely cozy atmosphere for a winter’s day. After our super long walk the day before we decided that we deserved our full English breakfast while Kiki was treated to a sausage too, while she wagged her tail appreciatively.

Local Activities

On arrival on Saturday, we embarked on the Taplow Jubilee Riverway circular walk, It is a 9.7-kilometre walk – you walk along Taplow Riverside along the Jubilee Riverside to Bray Lock and then you follow the River Thames to Boulter’s Lock. It’s a lovely flat walk with no hills and some lovely views of the river although it was quite muddy in places and Kiki with her short legs did get very muddy indeed! But it was all part of the fun and we were well equipped with wellies and warm gear.  Towards the end of the walk, we stopped off at The Boathouse at Boulters Lock for tea and brownies seated on the terrace looking over the river. The walk was a joy for Kiki, who revelled in the new scents and sights along the towpath and over the locks, her excitement amplified by her new extendable lead which gave her a lot more freedom to roam. This outing not only provided exercise and fresh air but also allowed us to immerse ourselves in the picturesque local scenery.

Rejuvenated from our walk, and after giving Kiki a very much-needed shower and blow dry, we decided to indulge in the hotel’s spa facilities before dinner that night. The outdoor hot tub was a real highlight, it was lovely and warm and was a perfect antidote to the crisp night air. As we relaxed, we were captivated by the view of magnificent trees, artfully lit to enhance their natural beauty, creating a serene and almost magical atmosphere.

Returning to our room, we found Kiki peacefully asleep, having enjoyed her own quiet time. We enjoyed a glass of champagne before heading down to a delightful supper later that evening.

The following day, after a hearty breakfast and Kiki’s enthusiastic reception from the staff, we ventured out to Maidenhead. The Remembrance Sunday procession was a poignant spectacle, adding a layer of historical reflection to our morning. Our next stop was The Royal Oak in Bovingdon Green. This dog-friendly haven was bustling with fellow canine lovers, and Kiki was pampered with treats while we enjoyed a delicious Sunday lunch – Denise enjoying roast beef and Rory opting for roast pork with all the trimmings.

Energized from our meal, we embarked on the Royal Oak, Marlow Common, and Homefield Wood circular walk – another longish 6.9 km trail. This is a lovely walk through the Chiltern landscape with lots of peaceful sections of woodland with a bit of a climb at the beginning of the walk although Kiki loved it, racing ahead and enjoying every minute. This stunning woodland is a mosaic of greenery and light. It was also fascinating to think that during the First World War, these peaceful woods had served a starkly different purpose, housing practice trenches for soldiers. Walking through such historical richness added depth to our experience, making it not just a physical journey but a walk through time.

Why Taplow House Hotel is a Perfect Dog-FriendlyWeekend Getaway

Our stay at Taplow House Hotel was more than just a getaway; it was an immersive experience. Just an hour from London, this splendid hotel offers a perfect blend of luxury, history, and natural beauty. The fabulous grounds provide an idyllic setting for both relaxation and exploration. The surrounding areas, rich with stunning walks and dog-friendly attractions, mean that every moment is an opportunity for discovery. Whether it’s lounging in the hot tub under the stars, dining in the elegant surroundings of the hotel, or wandering through the enchanting landscapes of Buckinghamshire, Taplow House Hotel encapsulates the essence of a perfect weekend escape. Its proximity to London makes it a convenient retreat, yet it feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

For dog owners seeking a blend of luxury, history, and the great outdoors, Taplow House Hotel is a great choice. It’s a place where unforgettable memories are made, and where a visit feels like a special occasion.