Hen do organisation - Nice town nr London

[k4mi]

Hi all,

I am organising a hen for one of my close friends in early September 2012. Wedding is in Bath in Nov. She has specifically asked for something close ish (less than an hr) to London as majority of people will be coming from there. She's not into anything remotely tacky and we are seeking a hotel with spa type thing but figure outskirts of London / towns close by would be best, preferably North of London as some people will be coming down from the North.

Age of group is approx 30ys, a couple of mums but mainly single ladies looking for pampering, good food and nice shops etc and possibly a cocktail bar although doubt this is essential. Any thoughts on a town we could look at?

Thanks

Rather nice hotel in Cambridge with spa - plenty of bars and shopping near at hand as well as good restaurants ... and not remotely tacky.

Sopwell House in St Albans is nice but you would need to get a cab into the town as it is on the outskirts of the city. Lovely shops there.

Danesfield House is lovely and close to J4 M40. Marlow is a small town with lots of lovely shops, Michelin star gastro pubs, on the Thames so lovely for walks along the river.

Colchester, Cambridge,