24 UK Hotels with Great Views

There’s nothing quite like a room with a view. Our Guru’s list of the top UK hotels with great views will see you wake up to the drama of the Cornish Coast, the serenity of the Lake District, or the epic Scottish Highlands. Be assured that these are the hotels with the best views in the UK. While away many a happy hour relaxing and drinking in the vista out of our recommendations for hotels with great sea views, hotels with great views of London, hotels with the best views of the Lake District and hotels with the most romantic views. From country house hotels, to chic B&Bs and gorgeous pubs with rooms, they all have a view to wow!

For the Lake District

• The Lake District abounds with glorious views, but the view from the Haweswater Hotel is really something. There’s nothing between you and Haweswater but a narrow strip of grass and road and being this close is just as spectacular as seeing it all from a distance. This is a peaceful spot to boot, and the hotel has just 17 rooms, plus a great restaurant.

For Scotland

• The Scottish branch of our list of UK hotels with great views was also long. But we have managed to refine it and one of our favourites has to be Ardanaiseig, located right on the aptly names Loch Awe. This glorious, 18 room country house hotel is luxurious and enjoyably eccentric, with wonderful food, great fishing opportunities and plenty of romance.
• Airds made ‘the cut’ too. This 11 room hotel outside Port Appin has a tranquil loch side setting which includes views of snow capped mountains and an atmospheric ruined castle. Plus the food is excellent.

For a sea view

• Just below Cornwall’s Bedruthan Steps, and overlooking Mawgan Porth is The Scarlet, a fabulous eco-friendly hotel known for its spectacular sunset views - from its restaurant and cocktail lounge, as well as from its exceptional spa and from its rooms. The design of the building is in harmony with its surroundings, with infinity pools reaching towards the sea and roofs resembling cliff tops.
• The Salcombe Harbour Hotel has a similar estuary view, with sail boats, beaches and green hills surrounding. It’s also right in lively Salcombe, and perfect for a break requiring a bit of self indulgence, be that good food, spa treatments or some action and adventure. It’s also great for families on a bucket and spade holiday.
• The Talland Bay Hotel isn’t right on the coast, it’s separated by about a minute’s walk through its own sub-tropical gardens, so the gardens are part of your view. Inside there’s a New England Beach House feel with sleigh beds and confident fabric choices.

For a rural escape

• The Steading is a contemporary B&B in a spectacular spot in the Scottish Highlands. There are just three rooms, which are light and minimalist, and the breakfasts are recently raved about.
• The 16 room Horn of Plenty Hotel in the Tamar Valley on the edge of Dartmoor, is an elegant country house hotel with fine dining and five acres-worth of its own peaceful grounds. And it’s in a great spot for fishing.
• Or consider the convivial Charles Bathurst Inn in the Yorkshire Dales, with its 19 light, modern rooms, hearty food and drink, and great walks and cycle routes right from the door.

For the Highlands and Islands

• Scarlsta House is an old Georgian manse on the Isle of Harris. Now a six bedroom hotel with cosy, comforting rooms and a restaurant with the freshest seafood imaginable, the views remain just as spectacular as they have ever been.
• Once a private country home, Glencoe House’s position, overlooking Loch Linnhe and surrounded by incredible Highlands scenery, makes this one of the most spectacular spots on this list. Inside there are seven, family, and dog friendly, suites, with open fires and all the cosy creature comforts. As well as walking your socks off there’s also great fishing opportunities.

For a view of London

• If it’s great views over London you want it’s hard to top The Shard, with its multiple public viewing platforms and various restaurants-with-a-view. There are floor to ceiling windows in both the bedrooms and the bathrooms so you want have to miss a thing.
• Despite its many fewer storeys, The Corinthia offers some pretty spectacular views too, this time of the Southbank and the river. It’s also grand and gorgeous, but this time in a more traditional way, with perfect staff, beautiful flowers at all times and a range of places to eat, drink, relax and be pampered.

For a family-friendly hotel

• In an incredible spot on the West Cornish coast, the Polurrian Bay Hotel is a mid-sized hotel just a stone’s throw away from a sandy beach. Most of the light and airy rooms have sea views, and there’s both and indoor and outdoor pool, plus a spa and gym.
• The Hell Bay Hotel on Bryher Island is remote, stylish and wonderfully positioned, with views of the Atlantic. It has 25 rooms and suites, many with patios looking out onto the ocean. There’s an onsite restaurant serving primarily locally sourced produce.

For romance

• You might argue that Swinton Park Hotel is part of the pleasure of this view, so you really need to see the castle-like stately home from the outside to really get the full beauty of this parkland. There’s lots of do here beside admire the castle, though, with a choice of two restaurants, fishing, golf, a spa and a cookery school.

For a peaceful stay

• Number 43 is an award-winning six bedroom B&B with breathtaking views over the Kent Estuary. The decor is light and airy, with just the right amount of coastal styling, and well chosen details, so that it feel luxurious, even though it’s inexpensive, with rooms starting from just over £100 per night.
• For a peaceful view which runs from the Avon Estuary to Burgh Island, try the The Henley, a small, friendly, owner managed bolthole with just five cosy rooms and its own private beach. The rooms are simple comfortable and spacious and the dining room overlooks the sea too.
• For a hotel wth great views of Snowdonia, try The Old Rectory on the Lake, which sits right on the shores of Lake Tal-y-llyn. There are just four traditional rooms, individually decorated - expect fireplaces and four-poster beds.

For a Green and Pleasant View

• Even if you’re not a fan of golf, you might still see the pleasant beauty in a rolling green green, and that’s where The Old Course Hotel in St Andrews is really staking its claim on this list. That, and the spectacular views of West Sands Beach beyond the golf course. Elegant and contemporary, this is a large hotel with all the facilities you might imagine. Plus the views. And the course.
• The Torridon is another spectacular Scottish addition to the list. Set in 53 acres of park and woodland on the shores of Upper Loch Torridon, this country house turned 18 room country house hotel certainly has a spectacular location. It’s also got an excellent restaurant and whisky bar.
• The Neuadd Lwyd Hotel in rural Anglesey is a former rectory with just four luxurious bedrooms and delicious dinners
• For gentler views there’s the Linthwaite House Hotel, with views over Lake Windermere, which is a relaxed Edwardian hotel with an excellent restaurant and great walks starting right from the hotel.

Still not sure?

• Refine your search by location, and use the ‘sort by’ button on best places to stay in Cornwall, for example, so it shows you our recommended hotels in price order,
• or use the Destinations tab to see our curated lists of the best hotels in Dorset, for example,
• or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

  • Horn of Plenty Hotel Tavistock (Gulworthy) 16 rooms from £130

    
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    Groups  -  If you want your own country house just for the weekend then this is the place for you. Exclusive use is avaliable.

    Foodies  -  The award winning restaurant tantalises your taste buds with its locally sourced, seasonal and inventive menu.

    Great walks  -  With all of Dartmoor on your doorstep there is no excuse for sitting inside.

    Sights nearby  -  Dartmoor National Park and The Eden Project are both nearby.

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Luxury and elegance make up this country house in rural Tamar Valley on the edge of Dartmoor - a peaceful stay in stunning grounds. Modern, comfortable rooms are unique in style and capture the view. Fine dining at the 2 AA Rosettes restaurant. A perfect adult retreat. See More

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  • Linthwaite House Hotel Windermere (Cumbria) 36 rooms from £200

    
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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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  • Hell Bay Hotel Bryher, Isles of Scilly 25 rooms from £140

    
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    Beach Life  -  This island has everything to offer from fishing, to sailing, beach combing and birdwatching.

    Foodies  -  The restaurant has been awarded 3 AA Rosettes

    Families

    Great walks  -  Take a walk on the beach or up Badplace Hill for unforgettable views of Hell Bay and Shipman Head.

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays

    A stylish hotel on the remote Bryher Island. Homely suites follow a beach chic theme, think blues, whites and seashells. Most have patios with magnificent sea views. The on site restaurant produces a delicious range of dishes from seasonal locally sourced produce. A grown up beach hideaway. See More

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  • The Pier at Harwich Harwich, Essex 14 rooms from £140

    
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    Foodies  -  Wonderful fresh seafood meets a creative chef, simply divine! Not to mention the gin library and Prosecco cocktails!

    Total relaxation  -  Sit in the suite's bay window, or indeed on the restaurant's balcony, and watch the sun set on the sea- heaven!

    Sights nearby  -  Just around the corner is the Electric Palace Cinema, the second oldest cinema in England- well worth a visit.

    Views  -  Great views over the busy harbour and the Stour and Orwell estuaries.

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays

    A charming waterfront hotel overlooking the quayside at old Harwich. Contemporary rooms capture the views over the working harbour. The fish restaurant is modern, lively and popular with the locals. A great stay on the East Anglian coast. See More

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  • Northbank Hotel Seaview 18 rooms from £100

    
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    Families  -  A memorable experince for all the family, with eccentric hosts, communal bathrooms and plenty of beachlife.

    Great walks  -  With over thirty miles of Heritage coastline, there are many stunning walks to be had.

    Sailing  -  A prime sailing spot and a favourite past time for both locals and tourists.

    Sights nearby  -  Carisbrooke Castle - once a prison for Charles I.

    

    An eccentric family run hotel in a fabulous setting - the 1930s with a ‘60s twist. Forget en suite bathrooms, but for families wanting a very relaxed seaside atmosphere at reasonable rates, with lots of friends to make, it's an experience. The antithesis of boutique. See More

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  • Charles Bathurst Inn Arkengarthdale, Yorkshire 19 rooms from £145

    
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    Active Holiday  -  Ideal for walkers set in the Yorkshire Dales on the edge of the Pennine Way & close to the mid point of the Coast to Coast walk

    Country Escape  -  With cosy interiors, roaring fires, warm hosts, and hearty cuisine - this is the quintessential rural pub experience

    Cycling  -  Plenty of cycling opportunities from gentle routes in the valleys to some challenging climbs over the moorland

    Weddings  -  Experienced in hosting weddings - the inn can cater for up to 200 people and offers a lovely rural backdrop

    

    Enjoy spectacular views of the Yorkshire Dales from this convivial converted 18th-century inn. Individually styled rooms keep the building's original features but feel light & fresh. Hearty Yorkshire cuisine is served in cosy surrounds. Ideal walking & cycling country, this is a fine country escape. See More

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  • The Scarlet, Cornwall Newquay 37 rooms from £195

    
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    Romantic Break  -  With a spoiling spa, luxurious rooms with sea views, and fine dining - this is the perfect setting for romance

    Spa  -  An eco spa featuring a bromine-filtered indoor pool, outdoor natural reed pool, a wooden sauna, and pod treatment rooms

    Restaurant  -  Seasonal dishes are served in the restaurant alongside a good selection of wines

    Surfing  -  There are several surfing beaches nearby and plenty of surf schools too

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays

    Relaxing, purpose-designed eco-friendly hotel overlooking Mawgan Porth beach. Rooms are decorated with contemporary furniture & local art. Enjoy sea views from the cocktail lounge and the stylish hotel restaurant. Expect fantastic spa facilities for relaxation and great outdoor activities nearby. See More

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  • Number 43 Cumbria 6 rooms from £110

    
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    Views  -  Stunning views across the Kent Estuary.

    Great walks  -  Arnside offers good walking for a wide range of abilities. Take an invigorating stretch up to Arnside Knott.

    Sights nearby  -  Visit Levens Hall and Holker Hall.

    Fishing  -  Visit Wych Elm Fly Fishery

    

    Award winning B&B with breathtaking views over the Kent Estuary. Bedrooms are light and airy and decorated in fresh coastal tones, furnished with Lloyd Loom bespoke furniture and Herdwick pure wool carpets. Modern showers & underfloor heating add to the luxury. A luxury base for exploring the area. See More

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  • Talland Bay Hotel Cornwall 27 rooms from £270

    
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    Active Holiday  -  There are a wide range of activities nearby including surfing, cycling, hiking, golf, and fishing

    Back to Nature  -  Views of the sea and the coastal path just 2 minute walk away keeps you in touch with nature

    Great walks  -  Miles of coastal paths can be explored right from the Talland Bay Hotel doorstep

    Sights nearby  -  The Eden Project is just a 40 minute drive from the hotel

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays, Good Hotel Guide

    A country house hotel set in two acres of sub-tropical gardens close to the beach. Rooms have a New England beach house vibe with contemporary fabrics, sleigh beds, and plenty of light. With award-winning Cornish fine dining and spectacular coastal views, this is a luxurious rural hideaway. See More

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  • Salcombe Harbour Hotel Devon 50 rooms from £295

    
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    Suites  -  All rooms come with 'balcony baskets' with binoculars throws and books, complimentary gin and sherry

    Sit-out Terrace  -  Wonderful terraces with sunloungers and glorious views of the harbour, estuary and out to sea.

    Restaurant  -  The Jetty Restaurant is both chic and family friendly with mouthwatering seafood lunch bar

    Parking  -  Cars are left on the hotel state of the art turntable and valet parked!

    

    On the edge of bustling and picture postcard Salcombe this stunning newly refurbished boutique hotel has everything one could wish for. Magnificently situated, overlooking the estuary with its sailing boats, sandy beaches and a short walk into town. Wonderful terraces, spa and pool, cinema. Bliss See More

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  • Scarista House Isle of Harris 6 rooms from £210

    
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    Back to Nature

    Hideaway  -  Tranquil and intimate.

    House party feel  -  Be prepared to meet people.

    Remote  -  Off the beaten track.

    

    Old Georgian manse on the Isle of Harris, now run as a charming hotel. Fabulous views over the stunning coastline. Rooms are cosy and comforting and the food is delicious: the freshest seafood imaginable. Perfect for a romantic escape away from it all. See More

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  • The Old Course Hotel St Andrews 144 rooms from £340

    
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    Local exploring  -  A short stroll away from the historic university town of St. Andrews

    Back to Nature  -  Has 135 kilometres of stunning coastline

    Golf  -  An onsite 18 hole golf course

    Local markets  -  Several family run shops and businesses to choose from

    

    A luxury hotel overlooking the West Sands Beach with elegant and contemporary decor. An 18 hole golf course, a world class spa, casual and formal restaurants and bars and a rooftop hot tub. A great location with stunning views. See More

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  • Glencoe House Glencoe 7 rooms from £340

    
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    Suites  -  The elegant suites with high celings and stunning views have separate sitting rooms and free standing baths

    Private dining room  -  Exquisite meals are served in the comfort of the guests suites, including afternoon tea

    Views  -  Wonderful views over the stunning countryside and lochs

    Back to Nature

    

    Once the home of Lord Strathcona, this handsome country house is set in ravishing Highlands scenery overlooking Loch Linnhe. Family and dog friendly, comfortable, spacious suites, some with open fires and superb in-suite dining. There is plenty to entertain the hearty from fly fishing to walking. See More

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  • The Torridon Ross-shire 18 rooms from £220

    
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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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  • Haweswater Hotel Penrith, Cumbria 17 rooms from £89

    
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    Back to Nature  -  In a remote location overlooking Haweswater, it's perfect for a retreat to nature.

    Sights nearby  -  The Lake District is full of beautiful houses such as Askham Hall and Rydal Mount & Gardens.

    Great walks  -  Go for lovely walks around Haweswater.

    Remote  -  Off the beaten track.

    

    With a stunning location and superb service, the Haweswater Hotel is a wonderful retreat for those who are looking to escape to a quiet corner of the Lake District. Excellent, comfortable rooms, stunning views and a brasserie restaurant, all combine to create a rural gem. See More

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  • The Steading Aberfeldy 3 rooms from £115

    
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    Back to Nature  -  Set in a seclduded spot surrounded by the Scottish Highlands, find wildlife and outdoor pursuits in abundance.

    Great walks  -  Explore the Highlands on long walks starting straight from the property.

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the fascinating visit Castle Menzies in Aberfeldy.

    Fishing  -  Salmon and trout fishing are both possible nearby.

    

    A contemporary B&B boasting a spectacular setting in the Scottish Highland's. Beautifully designed rooms are minimalist and light, they benefit from well-appointed modern bathrooms. Superlative breakfasts are served using all local produce. A rural hideaway of exemplary standards. See More

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  • Polurrian on The Lizard Cornwall 39 rooms from £120

    
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    Families  -  With a creche, indoor and outdoor play areas, a private beach, and plenty of space for little ones - this is ideal for families

    Self catering  -  Self-catering villas with well-equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, & outdoor fire pits are perfect for families or groups

    Restaurant  -  The restaurant serves delicious fresh local produce and seasonal menus. You can choose between family & fine dining

    Kayaking  -  Go on a kayaking or coasteering trip with Lizard Adventure

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, I Escape

    A family-friendly hotel in an incredible setting with a fabulous sandy beach a stone's throw away. Breathtaking sea views can be enjoyed from the comfort of airy contemporary rooms. Indoor and outdoor pools, a spa and a gym combined with the sea air mean you can't help but feel rejuvenated. See More

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  • Swinton Park Hotel Ripon, Yorkshire 32 rooms from £245

    
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    Families  -  Magical Yorkshire hideaway in a castle with pkenty of space, interconnecting rooms, and fun activities for kids

    Cooking classes  -  Variety of courses run throughout the year at the on site cookery school

    Country Escape  -  In a great locality to explore this beautiful and rugged part of the UK

    Honeymoons  -  A perfect spot for newly weds to hideaway in rural luxury

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Frommers

    Striking, castle-like stately-home set in sweeping parkland and offering plenty of on-site activities from fishing and golf to a cookery school and sleek spa. Vast rooms, beautiful views and a choice of two restaurants. See More

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  • Airds Port Appin 11 rooms from £370

    
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    Active Holiday  -  Enjoy horse riding, mountain biking, great walking, climbing and more.

    Local exploring  -  Within 30 mins of the area's top attractions

    Restaurant  -  3 AA Rosettes

    Views  -  Wonderful views down Loch Linnhe and stunning sunsets

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Relais & Chateaux, Sawdays

    An intimate hotel in a tranquil lochside setting with exceptional food See More

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  • Shangri-La The Shard London (Southwark) 202 rooms from £383

    
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    Swimming Pool  -  Awesome indoor pool on the 52nd Floor. It's Europes highest infinity pool and a must for all guests!

    Views  -  The Shard must have some of the best views over the whole of London.

    Sights nearby  -  Situated right next door to London Bridge, all of London's best bits are easily accessible.

    Local markets  -  Trendy Borough Market is round the corner

    

    Bucket list destination property that really has the “Wow” factor. Asian influenced interiors, with five star luxuries as standard. Floor to ceiling windows in both bedrooms and bathrooms to make the most of the spectacular views over London. Everyone must stay here once – despite the price tag! See More

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Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh

posted Tuesday, 27th February 2024