London for Pence

The Grove
London is sensory overload. I’ve often wanted to find a quiet place in the country to spend a couple of days decompressing, and I had the opportunity this summer. The Grove is a country house estate that has been tastefully enlarged, filled with striking, modern décor, and is marketed to Londoners as a country house for those without the means to own one. There’s golf, good food, and an eager staff, but after a long transatlantic flight, we most valued the opportunity to unwind during quiet walks along the Grand Union Canal, relax in the Sequoia spa, and take advantage of the superb kids’ program, a menagerie of fun available by the hour, year-round. The Grove is less than an hour from central London, and a great way to start your visit. Hertfordshire, 44-1923-807807

Learning More
London has one of the best tourism websites of any city in the world, visitlondon.com. It is a treasure trove of data and a great place to stay abreast of hotel deals and special packages. Time Out London, the city’s weekly guide, is invaluable and includes information on prices and bargain periods—buy it at the airport. Time Out publishes a series of guidebooks as well, including a definitive restaurant manual, shopping bible, and guides to bargain food and nightlife. They can be found in U.S. bookstores or online.

Where to Stay
The Athenaeum Hotel & Apartments (116 Piccadilly, 800-335-3300) ranked in Conde Nast Traveler’s 2005 Gold List. Be sure to ask about the “dollar per pound” promotion. Its sister serviced apartments at 23 Greengarden House (St. Christopher’s Place, 44-20-7935-9191) are superb, beautifully kept, and wonderfully located. Our two days there were a real joy. General manager Nikki Pybus personally looks after her small stable of guests.