Pennyhill Park, a Country Hotel and Spa Near London

If you're looking to rest and clear your mind—within 45 minutes from Central London for the weekend—the ivy-covered Pennyhill Park Hotel and Spa is a great option (especially in warmer months). I stayed two nights in February and felt I was miles away from the hustled pace of London life (which I must admit especially the spa and my garden suite were the main contributors). Situated on 123 acres of land in Surrey, it's green and serene. Stroll on paths meandering throughout the property: flowers, ponds, wildlife, and trees, including a 600-year old cedar! The hotel also has a 9-hole golf course and sun-splashed tennis court. The award-winning spa is truly impressive—I felt like I was in one of the German or Austrian greats. Fantastic amenities from a stunning outdoor lap pool to two outdoor whirlpools to endless treatment rooms. Workout? Their state-of-the-art gym (complete with power plate) is a pleasure overlooking the interior gardens. Read a book in front of a roaring fire? The library off the main entry hall is a pleasure.

The Michelin-starred Latymer Restaurant is pretty, albeit I found it too stuffy for such a setting, and other than breakfast, the food is nothing to write home about. The staff is responsive and kind, even giving you a menu to choose the perfect pillow. Dogs are allowed and charged an extra fee (I loved bringing Henry here) but do NB: you'll be most comfortable in the direct access garden suites to let the pooch out to roam and run. 

Rooms range in cost from £185 per night for a standard guest room to £1,000 for a suite. The style is old-fashioned English ... nothing stylish or chic about it, just relaxing and lovely.