Once only those of us with the oldest family names would have been eligible to stay in the UK’s grand country piles, but many of the most beautiful of them have been refurbished and returned to their youthful glory, and turned into country house hotels. Our Gurus have put themselves through the ordeal of sleeping in four-poster beds, dining in Michelin starred restaurants, being pampered in award-winning spas and strolling exquisite grounds to bring your their recommendations for the UK’s best country house hotels.
Rather than list the UK’s best country house hotels by location our Gurus have listed them by type, so there’s a top selection of the most romantic country house hotels, and a top selection of family friendly hotels and their top recommendations for family-run treasures.
For many of us it’s the ultimate way to unwind, so if you love the idea of your own hot tub, check out our Guru’s ultimate guide to UK hotels with hot tubs, or consider these country house highlights:
County Armagh (County Armagh)
Sophisticated family-run country house hotel with excellent food. Original Georgian interiors have been updated with modern elegance - fireplaces, large sash windows, paintings, and tasteful furniture are highlighted by lots of natural light and subtle tones. A romantic escape with plenty to offer.
Bradford on Avon
Jacobean Manor turned luxury family retreat in stunning gardens with pools. Comfortable, modern rooms are a great welcome after a day of activities. The restaurant caters to all dietary needs and occasions. Children clubs, games rooms, gardens and more gives parents a chance to relax at the spa.
Dorset
Characterful, family-run Jacobean manor house in glorious Thomas Hardy country. This quintessentially English manor has been in the same family for centuries, with portraits to match. An air of faded grandeur. The real deal.
West Sussex (West Hoathly)
An Elizabethan gem of timeless comforts, with fine wood panelled bedrooms, four poster beds and an exceptional garden. Old fashioned hospitality with modern standards. Independently owned with Michelin starred cooking and lots of outdoor activities.
Dumfries and Galloway
An impressive country house set in a stunning location. Traditional rooms feature large sash windows and tastefully upholstered furniture. Good Scottish cuisine with award winning service. Plenty of country pursuits in the surrounding area. An ideal country escape with all the comforts of home.
Fort William
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.
Hampshire
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.
Cirencester (Barnsley)
An imposing Cotswold house set within stunning (deservedly famed) gardens. Gorgeously renovated rooms are light, airy and full of mod cons. The chic modern interiors, indulgent spa and contemporary British cuisine make it hard to leave! A popular rural escape for urbanites.
Argyll (Kilchrenan)
A glorious country house hotel, touched with eccentricity and a little bit of magic. Luxurious decor, stunning views and wonderful food on the banks of Loch Awe.
Cornwall (Cornwall)
Overlooking the beautiful Fowey Estuary, South Cornwall, Fowey Hall is a family-centric yet stylish hotel where kids are treated like VIPs and adults can enjoy some relaxation. Rooms feel fresh and contemporary and there's a spoiling spa with a large indoor pool and an excellent Cornish restaurant
Ross-shire (By Achnasheen )
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.
Leicestershire (Stapleford)
Unusual and massive Georgian country house hotel and sporting estate, popular for weddings and corporate events. Plenty of activities for the active, including golf.
Berkshire
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!
Surrey
Creeper clad 19th-century country house luxury spa resort with two excellent restaurants, only half an hour from Heathrow. Country style with lavish facilities. Relax and rejuvenate.
Chagford
Family friendly country hotel with something for everyone: lego room service for the little ones & bespoke spa treatments for the adults! Ideally situated for exploring the wilderness of Dartmoor and more activities on site than you can imagine.
Shropshire (Wem)
A splendid Elizabethan manor located in rural Shropshire. Steeped in history (it features oak panelling from the 1400s), romantic, atmospheric, yet comfortable and hospitable. Highly recommended for a country getaway with self catering cottages for those who prefer more flexibility.
Norfolk (Coltishall)
Charming country house hotel in Norfolk Broads with its own boat for exploring the waterways. Lovely grounds and lake. Smart individually decorated bedrooms. Sumptuous breakfast, Sunday lunch, proper afternoons teas and hampers provided. Perfect for short breaks, weddings or business conferences.
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