The Hotel Guru
The 20 best 5 star hotels in the UK

The 20 best 5 star hotels in the UK

The UK has a wealth of options when it comes to 5 star luxury hotels. From grand country estates where you can take long walks through private parkland to contemporary offerings with spoiling spas or beautiful traditional London crash pads ideal for a city break. The UK has undergone somewhat of a gourmet revolution over the last decade and a number of the best 5 star hotels in the UK are now accompanied by Michelin starred restaurants. Our Guru's have scoured the length and breadth of the country to bring you the pick of the bunch from the Scottish Highlands down to the New Forest. Why not browse through our collection of the best luxury hotels in the UK and start planning your trip?

For Michelin starred dining

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House is a spoiling luxury country house hotel comprising traditional or cutting-edge rooms (the best have hot tubs). The woodland spa is a real draw as is the superb Michelin-starred restaurant which uses local produce to create exciting innovative dishes.
Whatley Manor is a quintessentially British hotel in the heart of the Cotswolds. Of the three restaurants The Dining Room is the real draw, holding two Michelin stars, this is a taster menu that's not to be missed.
Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons is owned by the chef legend Raymond Blanc. So the fact that the cuisine is superb (and has held its Michelin stars for the last 35 years) comes as no surprise. The property is also renowned for its fabulous gardens.

For the location

The Torridon is a country escape set on the shores of Upper Loch Torridon, on Scotland's beautiful North West Coast. 53 acres of park and woodland provide numerous outdoor activities and there's a seriously good restaurant and whisky bar to return to.
Linthwaite House Hotel is a gorgeous Edwardian country house boasting a hilltop location set overlooking Lake Windermere and the Fells. With plush suites and exemplary cuisine this is a luxurious base to explore the Lake District from.
For a stunning location at the foot of Ben Nevis we'd recommend Inverlochy Castle which exudes elegance and romance. Spacious rooms and suites are the epitome of classic luxury and there's a superb restaurant overseen by Albert and Michel Roux Jr. A fabulous highland getaway.

For a country estate

Cliveden is the epitome of a grand British country estate. The imposing house sits within National Trust parkland (perfect for long walks) and the interiors are equally as impressive. Better still there's a spoiling spa and choice of two restaurants.
Glenapp Castle is a family owned and occupied baronial castle in the south west of Scotland's historic lowlands. Beneath its fairytale turrets and towers there are oak-panelled rooms, rich fabrics and fine antiques, as well as modern award winning cuisine and impeccable service. The perfect country escape.
Ellenborough Park is a rambling 16th century manor restored to its former glory in a beautiful Costwolds setting. Opulent luxury suites boast antiques, four posters and Nina Campbell interiors. A serious country house hotel, with spa, pool and gourmet dining. A great choice for an indulgent getaway.

For an active break

Chewton Glen is a classic and superbly run country house hotel located just outside of the New Forest. Boasting its own 9-hole golf course, tennis courts, an indulgent spa, and a swimming pool you won't have to think about leaving this property.
Gleneagles is a luxury grand dame hotel in the heart of stunning Perthshire countryside. Boasting no less than three championship golf courses, an on-site equestrian centre, and shooting, fishing, and falconry available this is a perfect choice for rural pursuits enthusiasts.
The Lygon Arms is a charming, yet luxurious, country escape in the heart of the Cotswolds. Beautifully restored throughout the interiors are characterful and indulgent. A pet friendly option surrounded by wonderful walking country this is the perfect choice for keen ramblers.

For foodies

The Vineyard at Stockcross is a luxury rural property located near Newbury. Boasting both an award-winning spa and a superb fine-dining restaurant headed by celebrity chef Daniel Galmiche. Pick a wine from the 30,000 strong wine cellar to pair with your meal.

For a smart London address

No 11 Cadogan Gardens is located just behind Sloane Square - a hidden gem. Interiors feature eclectic style with lavish decor. Peaceful and calm, yet incredibly well placed for exploring London.
Rosewood London is a striking Edwardian hotel in the heart of London (minutes from Covent Garden and London's West End). Pick this property for a classic stay. Think: tweed-jacketed staff, elegant traditional design, and a glamorous cocktail bar.

For a romantic city break

Batty Langley's is an opulent converted 18th century townhouse in the trendy Spitalfields district (London). Gorgeous over-the-top rooms and suites offer stunning traditional interiors and equally impressive bathrooms. A romantic bolthole in the city of London perfect for a cosy getaway!

For the spa

Blythswood Square is an imposing hotel set in Glasgow's West End. Despite its traditional exterior appearances, the interiors are fresh and contemporary and the award-winning spa which includes a mud chamber, sauna and extensive treatments has every modern comfort!
Seaham Hall is a Georgian country house which knows how to spoil. From the large suites to the Asian-inspired spa which includes an indoor pool, a hammam, and an Asian herbal sanarium. Plus there's parkland to wander and an excellent choice of restaurants.

If you haven’t found your ideal property on our Guru’s list of the best 5 star hotels in the UK you could:

Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in the United Kingdom?
Or you could refine your search to our Guru's recommendations for the UK's best country house hotels? or the best UK seaside hotels? or the best boutique hotels in London?
Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
- Gilpin Hotel & Lake House Windermere 31 rooms from AU$404
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Six of the incredible suites come with their own private gardens and cedarwood hot tubs, ideal for a romantic getaway!
  Country Escape  -  20-acre gardens filled with magnolia, cherry blossoms and copper beech, not to mention the stunning private lake
  Foodies  -  Michelin starred SOURCE restaurant is run by head chef Ollie Bridgwater formerly of Heston Blumenthal's Fat Duck
  Fishing  -  Fishing can be organised on site, either on the private lake or a day trip to somewhere nearby
  Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Relais & Chateaux, Sawdays
  
  A luxurious and relaxing modern country-house hotel with a choice of traditional or cutting-edge rooms, many with hot-tubs. Michelin-starred dining, woodland spa plus flawless service. Set in 40 acres of stunning surroundings with a picturesque lake and lots of activities to offer nearby. See More
  
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- Cliveden House Taplow, Berkshire 44 rooms from AU$1137
  
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  Swimming Pool  -  Indoor and Outdoor Pools
  Country House  -  Grand neoclassical pile
  Restaurant  -  Recommended.
  Antiques
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Frommers, Kiwi Collection
  
  Boasting a spectacular rural setting and a famous history, Cliveden House is one of Britain's great country houses. Sumptuous, traditional rooms and suites boast truly spoiling bed linens and marble bathrooms. There's an exceptional spa, Library bar plus two restaurants. Simply superb! See More
  
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- Chewton Glen New Milton, Hampshire 72 rooms from AU$761
  
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  Country Escape  -  A gorgeous country house spa, set in 130 acres of parkland at the edge of the magical New Forest.
  Tennis  -  There are both indoor and outdoor tennis courts and coaching with the resident pro.
  Great walks  -  Plenty of walking across the 130 acres of parkland, or head into the New Forest.
  Kids Club  -  All new The Beehive, available every weekend and school holidays
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, Frommers, Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection, Relais & Chateaux, Michelin Travel
  
  On the edge of the New Forest and close to the sea, Chewton Glen offers five-star luxury to couples and families. Its wow-factor treehouse accommodation is the star of the show, along with the fantastic staff that always go the extra mile. Imitable service, gourmet dining and The Beehive, kids club. See More
  
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- The Vineyard at Stockcross Newbury, Berkshire 49 rooms from AU$364
  
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  Foodies  -  Head chef Daniel Galmiche specialises in classic french/Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist.
  Spa  -  Award wining spa with a wide range of therapies and treatments on offer.
  Sights nearby  -  10 minutes from Highclere Castle
  Great walks  -  On the South Downs
  Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux
  
  5* country escape close to Newbury in Berkshire, just an hour from London. A 30,000 strong wine cellar in a luxury hotel with award winning spa for the ultimate pampering. Spacious rooms and suites offer elegant comfort. The perfect country getaway for romance, girlie breaks or simply a great meal. See More
  
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- The Torridon Ross-shire 18 rooms from AU$413
  
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  Bar  -  Over 300 Malt Whiskies available in the Whisky Bar not forgetting their very own Arcturus Gin and Cushie Doos Tonic.
  Restaurant  -  3 AA Rosettes
  Sailing  -  Sailing tours on S/Y a 13 m sailing yacht both within the loch and to the Isle of Skye and the Outer Hebrides.
  Sights nearby  -  Boat cruises available off the west coast for dolphins and if you're lucky whale watching.
  Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays
  
  Country escape on the shores of Upper Loch Torridon. 53 acres of park and woodland provide many outdoor activities. Scottish country house opulence twinned with contemporary designs. Seriously good restaurant and whisky bar. See More
  
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- 11 Cadogan Gardens London (Chelsea) 56 rooms from AU$545
  
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  Romantic Break
  Local exploring
  Sights nearby - Within walking distance of Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament.
  Opulent
  Recommended by - Tablet, Small Luxury Hotels
  
  Located just behind Sloane Square, 11 Cadogan Gardens is a luxury boutique hotel in London part of Relais & Châteaux. Eclectic style with lavish interiors and comfortable rooms including a library, drawing room and terrace. Elegant and calm, this luxury gem is brilliantly positioned. See More
  
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- Batty Langley's London (Spitalfields) 29 rooms from AU$319
  
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  Sights nearby - The property is minutes from Liverpool St so there's easy access to all of London's highlights.
  Local markets - Old Spitalfields market is just round the corner
  Full of character
  Opulent
  
  Opulent, sumptuous and quirky converted 18th-century townhouse in the trendy Spitalfields district. Gorgeous over-the-top rooms and suites offer stunning traditional interiors and equally impressive bathrooms. A romantic bolthole in the city of London perfect for a cosy getaway! See More
  
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- Blythswood Square Glasgow (Blythswood Hill) 100 rooms from AU$385
  
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  City Style  -  An elegant 5 star hotel in a great location, with red velvet alcoves and fringed lamp shades nodding to the square's shady past!
  Spa breaks  -  Indulge yourself at in the award-winning basement spa with mud chamber, sauna and extensive treatments.
  Suites  -  Also penthouses with private lift, terrace, bar, dining room, rooftop views
  Swimming Pool  -  Indoor pool
  Recommended by  -  Fodors, Good Hotel Guide
  
  A luxury 5 star spa hotel in Glasgow's West End. Its landmark heritage creates an imposing facade. The contemporary interiors and wellness spa have all the modern comforts. The glorious penthouses and many private rooms are ideal for corporate or social entertaining. A chic choice. See More
  
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- Glenapp Castle Ayrshire 20 rooms from AU$554
  
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  Tennis  -  An outdoor tennis court, rackets and balls are all available at the hotel
  Fishing  -  Salmon and trout fishing can be organised from the hotel
  Full of character
  Outstanding location
  Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux
  
  A family owned and occupied baronial castle in the south west of Scotland's historic lowlands. Underneath its fairytale turrets and towers there are oak-panelled rooms, rich fabrics and fine antiques, as well as modern award winning cuisine and impeccable service. The perfect country escape. See More
  
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- Seaham Hall and Serenity Spa County Durham 20 rooms from AU$573
  
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  Swimming Pool  -  Indoor Pool
  Remote  -  Off the beaten track.
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  Restaurant  -  Recommended.
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection
  
  With a modern sense of glamour, this Georgian country house knows how to spoil, from the super-large suites to the Asian-inspired spa. Plus there's parkland to wander and a choice of eating options. Receive the celebrity treatments in large suites and modern bathrooms. A stylish stay. See More
  
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- Gleneagles Hotel Perthshire 233 rooms from AU$657
  
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  Child friendly  -  Great facilities for children of all ages with organised activities and childcare available.
  Restaurant  -  Andrew Fairlie Restaurant is the only establishment in Scotland with two Michelin stars.
  Other Activities  -  Shooting, fishing, falconry, gun dog training, off road driving to name a few!
  Golf  -  Three championshire courses and PGA National Golf Academy on site.
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection
  
  Luxury grand dame resort hotel in the heart of stunning Perthshire countryside. With three championship golf courses, top notch spa and more activities than you can imagine, this is the perfect resort for all the family. See More
  
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- Whatley Manor Malmesbury (Easton Grey) 23 rooms from AU$710
  
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  Foodies  -  Headed by famed chef Niall Keating, The Dining Room offers innovative fine dining while Grey’s Brasserie is a more casual affair
  Spa breaks  -  The Aquarias Spa is a full-service spa complete with a hydrotherapy pool, a floatation pod, salt scrub showers & a thermal suite
  Country Escape  -  A pretty Cotswold manor with manicured grounds, fine dining, and a spa. This is elevated country living
  Great walks  -  Get out and explore the countryside on long scenic walks
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection, Relais & Chateaux, Michelin Travel, Sawdays
  
  A grand Cotswold manor set in 12 manicured acres. Beautiful rooms and suites are decorated with a fresh take on traditional design. Two restaurants (headed by a two-star Michelin chef) and a full-service spa with a hydrotherapy pool make this ideal for a couple's escape. See More
  
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- Linthwaite House Hotel Windermere (Cumbria) 36 rooms from AU$376
  
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  Foodies  -  Henrock, overseen by Michelin Starred Simon Rogan offers relaxed fine dining with many ingredients sourced from his own farm
  Romantic Break  -  Take the stunning views, plush suites, two man tubs and candlelit dinners and you are guaranteed romance
  Views  -  From its elevated position Linthwaite enjoys breathtaking views over Lake Windermere and the Coniston Fells
  Private Hot Tub  -  The hot tub suite has a private enclosed verandah housing a large hot tub with a stunning lake view
  Recommended by  -  I Escape, Tablet, Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection, Sawdays
  
  Slick, stylish designs meet an intimate Edwardian country house offering all round comfort. Award winning dishes and fine wines at the restaurant. From its hilltop location over Lake Windermere and the Fells - explore The Lake District on foot, bike or horseback. Serenity at its finest! See More
  
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- Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons Great Milton, Oxfordshire 32 rooms from AU$1249
  
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  Foodies  -  The hotel has retained its Michelin stars for the 35th year running. Dining here is unmissable!
  Garden  -  Le Manoir's stunning gardens provide most of the ingredients for Raymond Blanc's epic food.
  Cooking classes  -  Raymond Blanc's cookery school
  Gourmet
  Recommended by  -  Tablet, Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection, Relais & Chateaux, Michelin Travel
  
  World-class indulgence in the Oxfordshire countryside. Raymond Blanc's delightful fusion of hotel, acclaimed restaurant and gardens is luxurious, yet warm and charming. Thirty two rooms and suites are individually designed, the gardens are divine, and the food breathtaking! Simply stunning. See More
  
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- Rosewood London London (Holborn) 306 rooms from AU$1183
  
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  Local exploring  -  Great location just ten minutes walk from Covent Garden and London's West End.
  Spa  -  Sense, A Rosewood Spa offers a range of restorative treatments from Sodashi, Maison Caulières, EviDens de Beaute & Face Place
  Restaurant  -  The Holborn Dining Room offers superb brasserie style dining & specialises in seafood & pies!
  Sights nearby  -  Central location, with many of London's sights accessible on foot.
  
  Stunning five star property in the heart of London. Exquisitely designed in a listed Edwardian building, you'll find an eclectic mix of contemporary and traditional which oozes style. Atmospheric cocktail bar, excellent dining and an indulgent spa ensure that this is a stay to remember. See More
  
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- The Lygon Arms Broadway (Worcestershire) 86 rooms from AU$310
  
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  Local exploring  -  An historic inn in an historic village well placed to explore the beautiful Cotswolds.
  Great walks  -  Take long walks through the picturesque countryside.
  Swimming Pool  -  Indoor pool
  Full of character
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  Steeped in history, this inn has a comfortably inviting interior and all the offerings of a contemporary hotel that will appeal to all ages. Great getaway for romantic weekenders, good base for families as well as walkers wanting understated luxury. See More
  
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- Ellenborough Park Cheltenham (Southam) 62 rooms from AU$332
  
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  Country Escape  -  Set in 90 acres of stunning National Trust land, with flower filled gardens and a lovely heated pool, just outside Cheltenham.
  Spa breaks  -  A well equipped spa with a juice bar, mood showers and an extensive treatment list using therapies from the East and West.
  Great walks  -  Borrow hunter wellies and brollies for a stroll in the Cotswolds.
  Traditional  -  Traditional country house style with Nina Campbell interiors.
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection, Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  16th century rambling manor restored to its former glory in a beautiful Costwolds setting. Opulent luxury suites boast antiques, four posters and Nina Campbell interiors. A serious country house hotel, with spa, pool and gourmet dining for the ultimate indulgent getaway. See More
  
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- Inverlochy Castle Fort William 17 rooms from AU$629
  
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  Families  -  Plenty of kit for the kids indoors including games rooms, DVDs, playstation plus endless outdoor activities.
  Foodies  -  This fantastic restaurant has been awarded 3 AA Rosettes- utterly delicious!
  Fishing  -  Fishing in Loch Na Marag in the Castle grounds or salmon and trout fishing further afield.
  Great walks  -  Stunning scenery to be explored starting straight from the property.
  Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux
  
  Elegance, romance and old-school service in sublime surroundings at the foot of Ben Nevis. Imposing rooms with heavy curtains, chintz wallpaper, antique paintings and four poster beds. The bathrooms are the height of modernity. Plus there's a fine dining restaurant. The perfect country getaway. See More
  
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