Overview
Nestled in the scenic Hatfield Heath, Essex, Down Hall & Spa stands as an opulent four-star country house hotel, extending its warm hospitality to canine companions. The Italianate mansion, set amidst a sprawling 110-acre estate, beckons discerning travellers seeking a romantic and secluded retreat, with the added joy of a dog-friendly environment.
Within the lavish interiors adorned with ornate ceilings, natural daylight pours in generously, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance that even the most discerning canine guests will appreciate. The surrounding woodland, parkland, and meticulously landscaped gardens present a haven for dogs, providing endless opportunities for exploration and play.
After a day of delightful doggie adventures, guests can unwind at the luxurious Eden Spa, a serene sanctuary within the hotel designed to rejuvenate the body and soothe the soul. The spa menu features an exquisite range of beauty and body treatments, from facials to manicures and pedicures, offered in three single treatment rooms and a plush double room for couples. With treatments provided by renowned brands like ESPA and Jessica, the spa guarantees a world-class pampering experience. Please note that spa access is not included in the room rate, and we recommend booking this facility in advance. However, the hotel's gym, steam room, and sauna are included and operate separately from the spa.
Down Hall also spoils guests with a variety of dining options. The AA rosette-awarded Garden Room offers a leisurely dinner experience, while the lounge tempts with traditional afternoon tea. Pets are not merely tolerated but welcomed with open arms, allowed to accompany their owners in designated areas such as the lounge and the Terrace. The Terrace, equipped with outdoor seating, heaters, and a well-designed bar, transforms into a versatile space suitable for various occasions, from casual get-togethers to special events. Whether basking in the warmth of a sunny day or wrapped up in the coziness of a cooler evening, guests and their furry friends can savor the refreshing ambiance.
For guests seeking the ultimate in dog-friendly accommodations, the Estate Patio Rooms offer direct access to the patio and gardens, making them an ideal choice for those traveling with their four-legged companions. A thoughtful touch awaits the canine guests, as each room is equipped with a cozy dog bed, food and water bowls, and a special WOOF box upon arrival. This delightful box contains treats, a Lily's Kitchen dog meal, a tennis ball for playtime, and dog waste bags for added convenience. Whether exploring the 110 acres of grounds, indulging in woodland walks, or relishing the pet-friendly ambiance of the lounge and terrace, Down Hall & Spa ensures a memorable and inclusive experience for both guests and their cherished furry friends.
Highlights
- Country Spa Hotel with hydrotherapy pool
- AA Hotel of the Year 2024
- Fine dining restaurant on-site
Pooch perks
- 110 acres of gardens, woodland and parkland
- Estate Patio Rooms offer direct access to the patio and gardens
- Dog bed, treats and water bowl provided
Bow Wow Factor
Has to be the 110 acres of woodland, parkland and landscaped gardens! Your furry friend can enjoy roaming on-lead or off-lead day and night.
All 100 of Down Hall's bedrooms have been individually designed to reflect the grandeur, elegance and character of this historic property. The dog-friendly rooms are all equipped with complimentary tea & coffee making facilities, mini fridge, iron and ironing board, complimentary Wi-Fi and a laptop-sized safe.
Dine with Your Dog
While dogs are not allowed in the restaurants at Down Hall, they are welcome to join you for a meal in the lounge, or if you prefer, you can dine in your room. Down Hall offers a diverse range of dining experiences for its guests. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at The Garden Room, awarded an AA rosette, indulge in a traditional afternoon tea in the lounge, or opt for a delightful picnic in the picturesque grounds. The Fox Bar at Down Hall is also recommended for an aperitif or nightcap.
The hotel's Terrace is an idyllic spot to unwind, enjoy a light lunch, or sip cocktails while taking in scenic views of the landscaped gardens and fountain. Featuring a well-designed outdoor bar, comfortable furniture, and heaters, the Terrace is a versatile space, adaptable to various weather conditions. Whether on a sunny day or a cooler evening, the Terrace provides a unique and inviting atmosphere for socialising, ensuring guests can make the most of the outdoor seating and refreshing ambiance year-round. The heaters offer warmth and comfort, making the Terrace ideal for casual get-togethers, intimate gatherings, or special events. The serene backdrop of the gardens and the soothing sound of the fountain create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
Need to know
Down Hall Hotel, Spa & Estate Reviews
- 572 reviews
- Member since 2011
Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM22 7AS
Totally disappointing for my husbands 60th birthday
I don t know where to start, we arrived and I paid to have an up grade in my room totally disappointing .the house manager rang me and asked if I was happy I said I thought the room would be a lot bigger and with a stylish bathroom in the next five minutes the hotel showed us another room which was good enough!
On time of booking the hotel Did not let us know there was building work going on even when we arrived we was not informed of all the building work going in we could hear it for ourselves! Lots of banging, drilling.The big lounge with open fire place was closed off , cocktail bar was closed. The restaurant where we ate breakfast and dinner the lights were so bright and because of light switch being in the cocktail bar they could nt dim the lights!!
We ordered breakfast in bed , on arrival it looked nice the hotel wished my husband happy birthday but they forgot the milk, orange juice napkins plates for your pastries so a couple of phone calls later and we had everything we needed.
I had a massage in the spa which was lovely, but we wanted to book the spa pool but was told that the builders had cut through one of the pipes so they had to drain pool abs fill and heat!!!
The night of my husbands birthday dinner, I pre booked a bottle of LPR champagne and 2 helium balloons.
I got a phone call in the afternoon saying that they didn t have any LPR??? They offered me a different champagne but I didn t like the one they had no Champagne.
On arriving for dinner the waitress gave us complimentary 2 glasses of rose champagne which was flat !! We stuck to the vodka.
We had afternoon tea which was lovely but not the ambiance I wanted as I wanted next to the open fire etc etc.
We had the wet spa which was lovely, Girls from spa very helpful and nice.
Stayed for 4 nights at this 4 star hotel it was like staying at fawlty towers (showing my age) .
I don t normally write bad reviews but I think this needs to be looked at or they should of shut the hotel for a week.
My husband does alot for me and our beautiful gamily so I wanted to do something amazing for him only to be let down hugely . We made the best of what we had.
There was lots of other little things that happened but as it is the review is long enough and
I m sure they have sorted out the issues now.
Won t be back
Will not be back! The hotel itself is lovely and the rooms are lovey but the staff are unwelcoming, amazingly unprofessional and it completely ruined the atmosphere and our break away! No chance we will be back
Map & Directions
Address
Matching Road
Bishops Stortford
Hertfordshire
CM22 7AS
How to get here
Enter your postcode to view approximate driving directions to Down Hall Hotel, Spa & Estate.
Location & Local Attractions
There are lots of wonderful dog-friendly things to do in the local area! Visit the historic market town of Bishop's Stortford with its charming boutiques and cosy dog-friendly pubs — it's only a 15-minute drive from Down Hall. Hatfield Forest is also only a 15-minute drive away and your furry friend will have lots of fun sniffing and exploring.
Book with Confidence
We price match
We won't be beaten on price. Found it cheaper? We'll match it.
Concierge
When you make a reservation with us, our Canine Concierge are on hand pre and post trip.
Dogs Stay Free
You will never pay a dog charge when you book through PetsPyjamas.
PetsPyjamas in the Press
















572 reviews, sorted by Date Rating