The Crown Inn Hotel Review: Old Amersham’s Thoroughly Modern Coaching Inn

For as long as I can remember, Amersham has been a part of my life. Amersham was to me the town from my teens where I used to stop for a late-night snack or cheeky cash machine visit after a night out at a not so glamorous club (I’ll let you guess which). While I was born and raised in central London, my father has continued to reside in the picturesque village of Chalfont St Giles which is just a few minutes’ drive from Amersham. Both towns also have a rather famous reputation for movies sets. Chalfont St Giles was the cinematic home of Dad’s Army & Hammer House of Horror, while The Crown Inn Amersham was the scene for everyone’s favourite – Four Weddings and a Funeral.

For one night we were staying at The Crown Inn Hotel which is a thoroughly modern coaching inn whose rooms have been given a rather fabulous makeover. As you arrive from the main road you’re greeted by some huge black lacquered barn doors, cobbled streets and a mixture of white coated stone and wooden beams. Even on a rainy day like we experienced, it was all still very inviting.

Only 45 minutes from London and at the end of the Metropolitan Line, this modern coaching inn is incredibly well-situated for a staycation if living in London like me. A total of 45 bedrooms, cosy bar and destination dining in the way of Hawkyns Restaurant from Michelin starred chef Atul Kochhar. We checked into one of the properties top rooms, the courtyard suite which was absolutely gorgeous. Lots of natural light pouring in through the antique windows and a warm glow come the evening.

The rooms here at this modern coaching inn have been designed by celebrated designer Ilse Crawford, who has kitted out the likes of Soho House New York, Grand Hotel Stockholm and Cecconis in London. Expect exposed beams, high ceilings and a signature king-sized four-poster bed and free-standing roll-top bath in the bedroom.

I also loved all of the amenities in the room and small design features. The retro phone by the bed, snug seating areas and welcome treats such as nuts and even a half bottle of Rioja. Perfect for sipping on in the bath or before dinner.

As well as that gorgeous bath in the bedroom, there’s also a separate en-suite featuring a rain forest shower, huge sink basin and some excellent spa amenities from The White Company. Again, the light pours in through those lovely windows during the day, though don’t forget to pull your blind down prior to getting in the shower – I learnt the hard way! If you don’t quite fancy creating your own spa experience in your room, book a treatment at the on-site Red House Spa.

Before dinner I popped open a half bottle of Champagne, ran a warm bubble bath and poured out those spa products from The White Company which smelt gorgeous. Even better still when I pushed open the windows above and let the cold air wrap around the warm bath and subtle smell of smoke from the village chimneys seeped into the room.

The next morning, still feeling a little full from our delicious dinner the night before we made our way down to the breakfast room where a large buffet option awaits. A large table packed full of pastries, cold cuts, cereal, fruits and fresh juices.

Breakfast is included in the room rate and it was very good, though my dining partner wasn’t too impressed with the promised mushrooms on sourdough, which arrived served on simply grilled toast. Still, very minor in the grand scheme of things.

After a nice relaxing afternoon and quick change, we made our way to the dining room in the main building which is home to Hawkyns by Atul Kochhar. An Exquisite modern Indian restaurant which offers a menu full of surprise and satisfaction. From an amuse bouche of samosas, to rich, fragrant main courses and refreshing desserts.Read more about my full dining experience.

After a good nights sleep (and one final relaxing bath before leaving) we were off on our way, reluctantly saying goodbye to The Crown Inn and reflecting on just how good of a meal we’d had the night before. Exquisite food, immaculate service and design-led rooms. Amersham is for me no longer then place I’ll remember from my party youth, but a place to relax and enjoy an evening of refined Indian cuisine.