A Wondrous Escape: 10 Luxury Country Hotels in the UK
There’s something magical about escaping to a place where luxury meets history, and the UK offers enchanting retreats.
May 28, 2025
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10 min read
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A getaway to the picturesque British countryside provides a chance to connect with the nation’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Ancient houses welcome guests, each offering a unique mix of rustic charm and luxurious comfort. These carefully chosen destinations are perfect for those looking for a peaceful retreat amid lush surroundings, featuring top-notch amenities, gourmet dining, and beautifully designed interiors.
From the timeless elegance of the Royal Crescent Hotel in Bath to the idyllic lakeside serenity of Langdale Chase, the UK’s hotels and resorts offer an unparalleled mix of history, luxury, and natural beauty. These distinctive retreats invite you to step into a world of comfort and charm, where every detail is crafted to create unforgettable experiences. Whether you long for the quiet romance of a countryside escape, the indulgence of a world-class spa, or the intrigue of storied walls steeped in heritage, there is a destination waiting to enchant you. Perhaps it’s time to pack your bags and discover your own wondrous escape.
Estelle Manor is making waves in the Cotswolds. At first glance, this 60-acre Jacobean estate may seem like a scene from "Jane Eyre," but don't be deceived by its exterior. Inside, the rooms boast bold colour schemes, giving a modern twist to this otherwise traditionally English estate set among 3,000 acres of private land. Renowned hotelier and owner Sharan Pasricha has thoughtfully considered every detail, providing golf carts for guests and offering a variety of activities, from axe-throwing to archery. The three on-site restaurants offer a departure from typical English pub fare, and the grounds feature expansive Roman-inspired baths. While it may resemble Eyre's Moor House, this manor tells a completely new story.
Our favourite rooms are situated in the Manor House, which features opulent interiors and grand sash windows offering extensive views over the garden’s topiary. The Estelle Suite is the standout choice. If you prefer something more secluded, the Walled Garden and Stable suites are charming options nestled within the estate’s grounds, with some offering private courtyards. For those planning a longer stay (and we wouldn’t blame you), the cottages are perfect for extended visits.
Lord Beaverbrook was a well-connected individual. As the owner of the "Daily Express" newspaper, he entertained the world's luminaries at his extravagant home, now transformed into a luxurious hotel, Grade-II-listed Beaverbrook has many stories to share. The rooms pay homage to past guests, including Elizabeth Taylor, Rudyard Kipling, and Ian Fleming, all of whom stayed here. Additionally, as a minister to Winston Churchill, Lord Beaverbrook hosted important wartime meetings at this location. Yet, the hotel does not dwell solely in the past - the interiors have been designed by Susie Atkinson (known for her work with Soho House) and Nicola Harding, and the Japanese restaurant is operated by a former chef from Nobu.
We love the Superior Turret rooms nestled in the eaves of The House, featuring a private terrace and stunning views over the Surrey Hills. For those seeking south-facing woodland views, we recommend The Garden House rooms. These are painted in charming, pastoral colours and adorned with botanical prints that reflect the surrounding English countryside. The ensuite bathrooms are equipped with roll-top baths, while the showers are beautifully clad in glossy green tiles. On the landing, there is a drinks station offering tea, coffee, and two whisky decanters, perfect for a nightcap.
Nestled near Cheltenham, Cowley Manor Experimental defies all expectations of a traditional country-house retreat. At first glance, its Italianate stone façade exudes stately grandeur, but step inside, and you’re transported into a bold, design-forward wonderland. This isn’t just contemporary style; it’s a playful, eclectic dreamscape influenced by Wes Anderson’s vibrant palettes, postmodern furnishings, and whimsical touches straight out of Alice in Wonderland. Far from being predictable, this reimagined royal residence brings a kaleidoscope of creativity to its historic charm.
The experience doesn’t stop at the eye-catching interiors. Wander through acres of idyllic grounds, indulge in seasonal dishes at the elegant French restaurant, or sip innovative cocktails in the sultry bar. And when it’s time to unwind, the spa stands ready to pamper, offering relaxation fit for royalty.
When it comes to choosing your room, the options are just as impressive. The split-level Family Tree room is perfect for those traveling with little ones, thanks to its cleverly designed sofa-turned-bunk-bed. Couples looking for a romantic escape will adore the St Mary Suite, which boasts a private terrace overlooking the serene lake and a sumptuous super-king-size bed. For ultimate indulgence, the Cowley Manor Suite takes the crown with its freestanding tub perfectly positioned for garden views, along with a sprawling wraparound balcony where you can bask in the beauty of this extraordinary estate.
Lympstone Manor, situated on the banks of the Exe Estuary, is a luxurious country house hotel known for its style, sprawling vineyards, and exceptional culinary reputation, thanks to chef and owner Michael Caines’ Michelin-starred standards. This Grade II-listed Georgian beauty combines historical charm with contemporary furnishings and striking seascapes.
Guests can explore the expansive 28-acre grounds by borrowing a bike or, if staying in a master suite, simply relax in the outdoor bathtub while enjoying the breathtaking views. The highlight of the experience is the dining, where you can savour meals featuring seasonal dishes inspired by Devon's farms and fields, whether it's dinner, lunch, breakfast, or elevenses. The Chef Michael Caines has demonstrated his ability to create a hotel as exquisite as his tasting menus, with well-balanced, rich, and satisfying flavours.
The Heron Suite features two side-by-side gilded roll-top bathtubs with views of the Estuary through tall Georgian sash windows. For those wanting to soak in the picturesque countryside, the Shepherd Huts, especially the Bee Hive, offer expansive vineyard views along with alfresco bathtubs or wood-fired hot tubs for a romantic retreat.
The Pig has become a trend-setting destination in southern England, with many imitators following its lead. Since its inception in 2011, this highly sought-after hotel has maintained its refreshing atmosphere characterized by unstuffy service, mismatched furniture, and a bounty sourced from its kitchen garden. Recently, they added a modern Victorian greenhouse to provide outstanding year-round produce and converted a potting shed into an excellent treatment room for a comprehensive, trotter-to-tail experience. To ensure you secure a spot, it’s advisable to book early.
For a truly indulgent experience, choose a Spacious room or larger for a freestanding roll-top bath. The rooms located in the stable yard are particularly unique, featuring original fittings from their days on the farm and thoughtfully named, such as the Piggery and the Pig House. Some of these rooms are split-level and include their own private courtyards.
Originally a medieval hunting lodge dating back to the 13th century, this New Forest manor was reclaimed for royalty by the Duke of Clarence in the 1740s. Since then, Lime Wood hotel has undergone another lavish transformation, giving this elegant estate an air of perfection. It features beautifully landscaped grounds, thoughtfully designed interiors, a luxurious spa, and an enticing restaurant.
This resort, renowned for its award-winning spa, serves as a sanctuary for wellness and relaxation. The combination of modern design and natural elements creates a stylish and refreshing countryside experience. The architectural restoration was performed by Charles Morris and Ben Pentreath, while the interior design, equally prestigious, was crafted by Susie Atkinson and Martin Brudnizki.
For a honeymoon-perfect escape, consider the Pavilion Lodge. It is located separately from the main house and features a private terrace overlooking the forest, along with a roll-top bath located in the bay window. The bedrooms in the main house also exude romance, highlighted by elegant Italian marble bathrooms in soft grey and white. Rooms 1 and 2 include bathtubs beneath expansive sash windows, while Room 11 boasts double sinks and a spacious bathroom. For a unique experience, opt for an Eaves or Forest Loft room.
The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa boasts perfect proportions, charming cobblestones underfoot, and stunning views of the honey-coloured city of Bath. Situated in the centre of the famous crescent street, the hotel epitomises English elegance. It is a neoclassical delight both inside and out, offering fine dining, an exceptional spa, and consistently first-class service.
Our favourite rooms include the grand Sir Percy Blakeney Suite (a Master Suite), which features a vast drawing room adorned in neutrals and golds with a striking decorative fireplace. This suite stands out as the only one with magnificent views of both the park and trees stretching into the distance in front and the hotel’s beautiful gardens and historic coachhouse buildings rising behind. The bedroom is a tasteful pink-and-white creation, complete with a four-poster bed. Additionally, in the coachhouse's conservatory extension, the spacious Beau Nash Suite (a Deluxe Suite) offers a delightful living room that opens directly onto the gardens
Ever since John Profumo first laid eyes on Christine Keeler while she basked in Cliveden’s pool, it has been clear that this Berkshire boutique hotel was destined to be a favoured retreat for Mr. & Mrs. Smith. As a celebrated haunt for politicians and literary figures, this majestic neoclassical manor, with its air of faded grandeur, has been steeped in decadence, scandal, and intrigue since it was built—originally to house the Duke of Buckingham’s mistress.
Each of Cliveden’s rooms, named after the illustrious personalities who have been part of the manor’s checkered history, offers something uniquely appealing. If we had to choose favourites, the Henry James suite stands out with its stunning 10-mile view of rolling countryside from the marble bathtub, while the Sutherland room captivates with its soft pastel palette and extraordinary ornate chimneypiece. The Chinese room, light and airy, is impeccably styled in gentle gold tones and is also quite special.
The Grove in Hertfordshire is a stately hotel with a rich history, having been around for decades. This Grade II-listed mansion features a contemporary wing and an impressive spa, and it has recently gained attention from Smith thanks to a renovation that has made its family-friendly rooms and suites more appealing. Designed by Martin Hulbert, these accommodations offer a variety of activities suitable for guests of all ages, including woodland nature trails, archery, and s'mores by the fire. The hotel also boasts an excellent kids' club and babysitting services, allowing parents to enjoy a round of golf, a spa treatment, or a romantic dinner for two.
Families will find plenty of options at The Grove. The deluxe rooms in the West Wing provide ample space, with small balconies and accommodations for four guests. Updated rooms and suites in the Grade II-listed mansion are set to be unveiled in Spring 2023, and we are excited to see how Martin Hulbert enhances these spaces. Among the suites, the Clarendon suite is the most family-friendly option, accommodating up to four people.
Let’s get straight to the point: Langdale Chase, a stunning manor situated by Lake Windermere, is a must-visit. With its charming Victorian features—carved oak panelling, stained glass windows, turrets, and gables—this manor has been beautifully updated with contemporary country-chic suites. From these rooms, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the lake, which extend to a water-facing dining room and a private pier. Additionally, a delightful cinema may also catch your eye. The property offers enticing outdoor bathtubs, a cosy bar, and fireplace-lit nooks, making it an ideal Lake District retreat.
In most rooms, Lake Windermere provides a prominent view, though some offer more expansive vistas than others. The Langdale Pikes Suite takes this a step further, showcasing views of its namesake landmark in addition to the lake from its balcony, complete with a dramatic curtain-draped octagonal turret. For a truly unique experience, consider staying in the secluded Victorian Boathouse, which includes its own private pier for refreshing swims. We also recommend the Lakehouse Garden Room Double, featuring a luxurious alfresco copper bathtub for relaxing soaks, along with a private garden and balcony to enjoy the beautiful grounds.
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