20 Best Value Country Hotels for a UK Getaway

The Hotel Gurus offer their independent recommendations for the best budget country house hotels — perfect for a budget-conscious UK getaway. They know the best budget country hotels from Wales and the West Country to Scotland and Sussex. From B&Bs to charming country house hotels, via rather a lot of funky inns, these are the sort of places you can ring up on a whim on a Friday afternoon and be down in time for a cosy supper! From Cumbria to Cornwall, our Gurus have searched up and down the country for the best budget country hotels and now we've got it covered!

For The West Country

• Devon offers up Bayards Cove Inn in beautiful and ever-popular Dartmouth. It has seven comfy rooms, two of which are ideal for families, plus there's a cafe, bar and restaurant serving up the best of the county. Rooms start from as little as £115 per night including breakfast.
• Or you might try the Masons Arms in the pretty, coastal village of Branscombe. Essentially a traditional country pub with six rooms upstairs and 12 cottage rooms attached — all just ten minutes walk from the beach.
• The White Hart, Somerset is a charming gastropub with impeccably decorated rooms and fantastic food. Rooms and one suite are attractively furnished with lots of natural light. Expect a lovely dining area and bar, a big garden, and lots to do in the surrounds. Ideal for couples or families.

For The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are always a popular weekend destination, but it is getting harder and harder to find a really good value country hotel in this neck of the woods.

• Check out the Horse and Groom in Bourton on the Hill, an informal gastropub with a great atmosphere and five smart bedrooms. 
• Or you could try The King's Head, a cosy and traditional English inn with 11 homely rooms right on the charming green of pretty Bledington. Expect bonhomie, bags of character, cosy corners and just the right sort of superior pub grub that suits today’s new-style old country inn. As for the bedrooms, they are the sort we love: simple and unpretentious, yet artfully decorated with junk shop finds, painted furniture, pretty fabrics and comforting throws on excellent, white linen beds.
• Otherwise, The Holford Arms is a quiet and charming pub perfect for a reasonably priced weekend in the countryside. Set amidst beautiful Cotswolds scenes, the inn offers lovely rooms, an atmospheric pub and delicious food in the restaurant. Boutique camping options are available for people looking for an alfresco option.
• Near the Cotswolds, The Lion at Wendlebury is a charming 18th-century inn set in an Oxfordshire village. Expect traditional rustic style with exposed beams, tilting ceilings and open fires. Stylish rooms have elegantly designed fabrics, cosy bed-throws and sink-into beds. Serving very good classic pub fare, this is the whole package.

For The Lake District

• If your idea of the best value country hotels, UK wide, includes incredible views of pristine countryside, which you would spend some of your break striding across, then the Sun Inn, ideally located for both the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales in the charming market town of Kirby Lonsdale, should fit the bill. After a day out on the hills and dales, the bar, with its roaring log fire and award-winning food, will provide welcome comfort.
• The Hare and Hounds is a historic and homely 16th-century country inn. Rooms are individually designed with lots of character. The firelit restaurant is superb and the bar has a wide range of cask ales. A laidback Cumbrian inn.

For Wales

• Wales is also littered with great value country hotels with fantastic food, and the West Arms Hotel in Denbighshire is a great example. This unspoiled, 16th Century inn at the foot of the Berwyn Mountains has 16 rooms made especially cosy and charming by their original features and antiques — the beds are four-poster or those pretty brass ones, and there are flagstones, inglenooks, beams and roaring fires.
• The Cawdor is a landmark building in the lovely village of Llandeilo. Large rooms mix contemporary design with a traditional feel; think high ceilings with crisscrossing wooden beams. The large bar sells regional drinks and the restaurant serves up wholesome Welsh food. An ideal base for exploring rural Wales.
• The Old Vicarage is a fantastic little B&B in mid-Wales near the Cambrian Mountains and not far from the stunning coastline. It boasts elegant bedrooms and a highly rated restaurant with expert chefs. Pick this for the cuisine, excellent value, and option for outdoor pursuits.

For Norfolk

• Bedingfeld Arms is a cosy countryside inn offering comfort and tranquillity. Recently renovated rooms are inviting with classic wooden furniture, traditional fabrics and carefully considered colour schemes. The heart of the inn is its authentic pub restaurant and bar space with fireplace and armchairs. A charming rural hideaway.

For Surrey

• Bel And The Dragon, Surrey, is a great base located in an Area of Outstanding National Beauty. Hidden in the heart of pretty Jane Austen countryside, this newly renovated 15th-century inn offers everything you might want in a rural getaway — tasty, well-presented food, friendly staff, comfortable rooms and no shortage of walks.
• Hurtwood Hotel enjoys an idyllic countryside setting outside Peaslake, far from the hustle and bustle of modern life. This newly refurbished 1920s property offers chic boutique accommodation. With lovely British and Italian cuisine, this is a cosy and intimate retreat.

For Sussex

• The Bell, East Sussex is a characterful inn set in a beautiful area of East Sussex. Individually styled rooms are filled with antiques, artworks and playful slogans; the best feature a free-standing copper bath. The atmospheric bar, very popular with locals, serves fabulous pub classics. A charming choice for a country getaway.

For Yorkshire

Rugged and charming, Yorkshire is England’s largest county, home of the green rolling hills and narrow roads of the Yorkshire Dales, and the wonderfully wild heather moorlands of the North York Moors.

• Perfect for the Pennine Way and the Yorkshire Dales, The Lister Arms is a nine room postcard-perfect inn with lovely views and a buzzy pub. Plus you’re close to Skipton, and rooms start from around £80 per night.

For Derbyshire

• The Boot is a 17th-century coaching inn with an on-site micro-brewery. This recently refurbished guest house and restaurant offers nine light-filled rooms decorated in an old country house style. With traditional features throughout including oak beams, original fireplaces and sash windows — this is a characterful choice offered at great rates.

For Lancashire

• Millstone at Mellor is a classic coaching inn on the edge of the Ribble Valley. Bedrooms are characterful and cosy and the award-winning restaurant serves delicious food using local produce. The perfect base for a walking holiday.

For Scotland

• For a real taste of Argyll with its miles of jagged coastline, the Royal An Lochan hotel in Tighnabruich is an ideal place to stay. The village overlooks a classic sea loch of the Kyles of Bute from which delicious shell fish is plucked for the restaurant.

Still not sure where to book?

• Consider out Guru’s recommendations for the Best Romantic Country Hotels
• consult our list of 10 Great UK Country Inns,
• take a look at our pick of the Best Hotels for a Quick Country Escape,
• push the boat out and consult our list of 10 Best UK Spa Hotels,
• or or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

  • Bel and the Dragon, Surrey Surrey 18 rooms from AU$216

    
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    Sights nearby  -  For those interested in art visit Churt's Sculpture Park

    Great walks  -  Walk the Pilgrim's Way along the Surrey Hills

    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.

    Boutique

    

    Good base in attractive countryside for a weekend getaway in Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Also the area where Jane Austen got inspiration for her novels. Couples will find it cosy and contemporary; larger groups and families will appreciate the spacious rooms and communal areas. See More

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  • The Lister Arms nr Skipton, Yorkshire 23 rooms from AU$216

    
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    Full of character  -  Expect wood-burning stoves, flagged stone floors, slopping ceilings, and exposed beams - a quintessential British getaway

    Country Escape  -  Enjoy great ales and hearty cuisine at this postcard pretty inn situated in the National Trust's Malham village

    Active Holiday  -  With the Yorkshire Dales on the doorstep, this is perfect for a cycling or rambling holiday

    Historic  -  A 17th-century coaching inn that was once home to the first Lord of Ribblesdale

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    A gloriously situated coaching inn, on the Pennine Way, in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Pretty rooms with soft hues and lovely views. Unwind in the buzzy bar with dogs, fires and home cooking. The perfect base for walkers and those looking for some peace and tranquility. See More

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  • Royal An Lochan Tighnabruaich, Argyll 11 rooms from AU$188

    
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    Wildlife Area  -  Great for spotting marine mammals including otters, seals and dolpins

    Birdwatching  -  See a huge variety of land and sea birds.

    Great walks  -  Hill and coastal walks for all abilities

    Views  -  Over the Kyles of Bute.

    

    A hideaway hotel, with great seafood and heavenly views over the Kyles of Bute. Out of the way in an enchanting setting. See More

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  • Bayards Cove Inn Dartmouth 7 rooms from AU$272

    
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    Great walks  -  Go for lovely walks on the nearby beaches such as Blackpool Sands.

    Fishing  -  Sea fishing trips can be organised by the hotel.

    Sights nearby  -  Ten minutes walk from Dartmouth Castle.

    Restaurant  -  Recommended.

    

    Set a beautiful historic townhouse, Bayards Cove Inn is a classy establishment in Dartmouth. Its modus operandi is to do the simple things well and the hotel staff make good on this. Excellent restaurant, comfortable rooms and a beautiful setting overlooking the Dartmouth estuary all help of course. See More

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  • Masons Arms, Devon Branscombe, Devon 27 rooms from AU$197

    
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    Local exploring  -  A lovely low key base from which to explore the delights of South Devon

    Beach nearby  -  Branscombe Beach a 10 minute walk

    Sights nearby  -  Branscombe is full of lovingly restored historic buildings and the Jurassic Coast is on the doorstep.

    Great walks  -  Explore the Jurassic coast on the South West Coastal path

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Traditional country pub in a pretty coastal village. Cosy and stylish rooms - muted tones with real wood accents and antique touches. Fine ales and classic dishes, with the beach only a short walk away. A great place to rest your head whilst discovering East Devon’s Jurassic coastline. See More

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  • West Arms Hotel Wrexham, Denbighshire 16 rooms from AU$310

    
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    Sights nearby  -  Chirk Castle built in 1310 includes a dungeon and tower.

    Great walks  -  Explore the Chirk Aqueduct along the River Dee.

    Romantic  -  Good for couples.

    Full of character

    

    Unspoiled 16th Century Inn nestled in the foothills of the Berwyn Mountains. Traditional aspects maintained with the original features and antiques. Rooms are cosy and unique, with modern bathrooms. Seasonal menus, daily specials and a fully stocked bar entice locals and guests alike. See More

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  • Horse and Groom Moreton in Marsh, The Cotswolds 5 rooms from AU$141

    
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    Local exploring  -  An ideal base for exploring the beautiful Cotswolds, with charming Moreton in Marsh just down the road.

    Sights nearby  -  Moreton in Marsh, Chipping Camden, Broadway and Stow on the Wold are all close by

    Restaurant  -  Award winning cuisine featuring local produce, much of it grown on site.

    Great walks  -  There is lovely walking for all abilities on the doorstep.

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide

    Informal restaurant with rooms cum gastro pub in the now familiar mould; towny style, a buzzing bar and restaurant, and a small number of smart bedrooms. Five individually designed rooms in contemporary classic style, plus award winning food - a perfect laid back base for exploring Cotswold country. See More

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  • King's Head Burford 11 rooms from AU$207

    
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    Country Escape  -  A traditional inn - the inexpensive alternative to a country house hotel.

    Restaurant  -  Gastropub cooking with 2 AA Rosettes

    Great walks  -  Beautiful country walks

    Quirky  -  Full of junk shop finds

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide

    A cosy and characterful traditional English Inn. With simple, homely guest rooms and fine pub food - The King's Head offers guests are proper countryside getaway. Lovely scenic walks in the heart of the Cotswolds and outdoor activities available to those looking for something extra. See More

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  • Sun Inn Kirkby Lonsdale 11 rooms from AU$186

    
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    Local exploring  -  Great base for exploring both the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District.

    Sights nearby  -  Devil’s Bridge in Kirkby Lonsdale

    Birdwatching  -  RSPB’s reserve at Leighton Moss

    Great walks  -  Ingleton Waterfalls Trail.

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Traditional town pub with comfortable rooms in a charming market town near the Lake District and the Dales. Popular with locals for its award winning menu. A great base for serious walking, but need a car. Dog friendly with lots of outdoor activities on offer in the surrounding area. See More

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  • Hurtwood Hotel Guildford, Surrey 13 rooms from AU$188

    
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    Local exploring  -  Head into Guildford and Dorking or explore the various nearby National Trust sites

    Short break  -  The property is located just 12 miles from Gatwick Airport!

    Country Escape  -  Hurtwood Hotel enjoys a wonderfully serene rural location

    Great walks  -  Be sure to fully explore the Surrey Hills, home to some of England's most beauiful countryside

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Hurtwood Hotel enjoys an idyllic countryside setting outside Peaslake, far from the hustle and bustle of modern life. This newly refurbished 1920's property offers chic and boutique accommodation complete with en suite bathrooms. Lovely British and Italian cuisine served up. An intimate retreat. See More

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  • The Boot Repton, Derbyshire 9 rooms from AU$310

    
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    Historic  -  This former coaching inn dates back to 1649

    Restaurant with rooms  -  Onsite brewery, bar and restaurant make wining and dining at the heart of this inn

    Sights nearby  -  Close proximity to Repton school, Catherdral and lots of Saxon heritage sights

    Restaurant  -  The Award winning restaurant holds 2 AA Rosettes

    

    A 17th century coaching inn with an onsite micro-brewery. This recently refurbished guest house and restaurant offers 9 light filled rooms in old country house style. The Boot offers fine wining and dining amongst traditional features including oak beams, original fireplaces and sash windows. See More

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  • The Holford Arms Tetbury, Gloucestershire 6 rooms from AU$173

    
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    Sights nearby  -  Visit the magnificent royal residence of Highgrove with its lovely gardens.

    Great walks  -  The surrounding countryside is full of glorious walking trails.

    Restaurant  -  Recommended.

    Restaurant with rooms

    

    Quiet and charming, The Holford Arms is a great spot for a weekend in the countryside. Set amidst beautiful Cotswolds scenes, the inn offers lovely rooms, an atmospheric pub and delicious food in the restaurant. Boutique camping options available for people looking for an al fresco option. See More

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  • Millstone at Mellor Blackburn, Lancashire 23 rooms from AU$186

    
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    Restaurant  -  There is a 2-rosette acredited restaurant and a real ale bar

    Great walks  -  Great walks through the rural Lancashire countryside.

    Local markets  -  Explore the market towns of Clitheroe and Longridge.

    Sights nearby  -  Visit Clitheroe Castle and museum.

    

    Classic coaching inn on the edge of the Ribble Valley. Bedrooms are characterful and cosy and the award winning restaurant serves delicious food using local produce. Relax in the comfortable sitting room and enjoy some of the finest ales, all set amid beautiful countryside. See More

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  • The Bell, East Sussex East Sussex 11 rooms from AU$188

    
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    Country Escape  -  An utterly charming Inn set in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

    Great walks  -  Take long walks through the picturesque surrounding countryside.

    Sights nearby  -  Make a trip to the stunning Sissinghurst Castle Gardens.

    Full of character

    

    A characterful Inn set in a beautiful area of East Sussex. Individually styled rooms are filled with antiques, artworks and playful slogans. The best feature a free standing copper bath. The atmospheric bar, very popular with locals, serves fabulous pub classics. See More

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  • The Hare and Hounds Kendal, Cumbria 5 rooms from AU$225

    
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    Active Holiday  -  Everything the Lake District has to offer is on the doorstep from superb hiking to a plethora of watersports

    Great walks  -  Nearby Whitbarrow Scar & Gummer’s How are both easy climbs with fantastic 360° panoramic views

    Country Escape  -  As traditional and rustic as an inn could be! Set in Cumbria's stunning landscape

    Local exploring  -  Just 4 miles from Kendal, this is an ideal base for exploring the Lake District

    

    Historic and homely 16th-century country inn. Rooms are individually designed with lots of character. Beds are king-size and very comfortable. The restaurant serves excellent pub grub and the bar serves great cocktails and local ales. A typical Cumbrian pub with a touch of metropolitan pizzazz. See More

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  • The White Hart Somerton Somerton, Somerset 7 rooms from AU$178

    
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    Restaurant with rooms  -  Lovely pub with superbly decorated rooms.

    Sights nearby  -  Glastonbury Abbey.

    Fishing  -  Viaduct fishery.

    Traditional

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    A charming gastro pub with impeccably decorated rooms and fantastic food. Rooms and one suite attractively furnished with lots of natural light and luxurious bedding. Lovely dining area and bar, big garden, lots to do in the surrounds. Ideal for couples or families. See More

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  • The Cawdor Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire 23 rooms from AU$178

    
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    Country Escape  -  A cosy hotel with plenty of walking opportunities from the Brecon Beacon National Park to Pembrokeshire and Cardigan Bay.

    Great walks  -  Just outside the town find yourself in stunning countryside with endless walking options.

    Sights nearby  -  Nearby attractions include the medieval Dinefwr and Carreg Cennen castles.

    Full of character

    

    A landmark building in the lovely village of Llandeilo. Large rooms mix contemporary design with a traditional feel. High ceilings with criss-crossing wooden beams. The large bar sells regional drinks and the restaurant serves up wholesome Welsh food. An ideal base for exploring Wales. See More

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  • The Lion at Wendlebury Oxfordshire 13 rooms from AU$169

    
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    Country Escape  -  Lovely traditional village inn, ideal for those seeking cosy weekends away and long countryside walks

    Sights nearby  -  Head to the quaint Iffley Village for a pleasant day out, or nearby Oxford for its many colleges and cultural attractions

    Birdwatching  -  Good birding near the hotel.

    Romantic  -  Good for couples.

    

    A charming 18th-century inn set in an Oxfordshire village. Expect traditional rustic style with exposed beams, tilting ceilings and open fires combined. Stylish rooms have elegantly designed fabrics, cosy bed-throws and sink-into beds. Serving very good classic pub fare. Countryside perfection. See More

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  • Bedingfeld Arms Oxborough, Norfolk 9 rooms from AU$167

    
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    Foodies  -  Locally sourced meats and a private vegetable garden provide the ingredients for hearty, healthy and traditional fare

    Hideaway  -  Withdraw and unwind in the heart of rural Norfolk, miles away from the demanding buzz of modern life.

    Families  -  Some rooms adjoin and the connecting doors can be opened, which is ideal for families with children.

    Country Escape  -  A more gentle pace of life - crisp early-morning woodland walks await at the Bedingfield Arms.

    

    Cosy countryside inn offering comfort and tranquillity. Recently renovated rooms are inviting with classic wooden furniture, traditional fabrics and carefully considered colour schemes. The heart of the inn is its authentic pub restaurant and bar space with fireplace and armchairs. Dog-friendly. See More

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  • The Old Vicarage Powys 4 rooms from AU$178

    
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    Views  -  Breathtaking scenery.

    Active Holiday

    Sights nearby  -  Lake District of Wales is world famous Powis Castle & Gardens.

    Fishing  -  On the Severn River.

    

    A fantastic little B&B in mid Wales near the Cambrian mountains and not far from the stunning coastline. Elegant bedrooms and a licensed bar. Plenty to do; walking, cycling, festivals etc. Excellent value and lots of outdoor activities. See More

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Written by Sarah Empson

posted Wednesday, 8th February 2023