The Ultimate Guide to the Most Romantic Hotels in the UK
It doesn’t have to be expensive or luxurious. It doesn’t have to be in the middle of nowhere. And it doesn’t have to have four-poster beds, private hot tubs or complimentary champagne. All of these are romantic touches, but our Guru’s recommendations for their ultimate guide to the most romantic hotels in the UK are a magical mixed bag of obvious choices and less-known-treasures.
They’ve broken the list up not by location but by the kind of hotel you’re looking for - so if you do want all out luxury or an intimate hideaway then you’ll find their top picks easily. And you’ll soon be booking yourself in to one of the most romantic hotels in the UK. Sigh…
For a Special Occasion
- Cliveden House is a grand neoclassical country pile, a National Trust treasure, and probably still best known for its part in the Profumo affair. But it seems like everyone who’s ever been anyone has stayed here, from Churchill to Chaplin and Lawrence to Lennon. There are 44 rooms and 15 suites, but staying here still feels like you’re staying in a country home rather than a hotel. There are original Old Masters on the walls, a spa which boasts Canadian cedarwood hot tubs as well as a whirlpool hot tub, boats on the river, two pools and a truly wonderful afternoon tea.
- The Corinthia Hotel isn’t the most famous of London’s grand hotels, but it’s probably the most irresistibly seductive. Beautifully restored and the the right amount of glitz and glamour, the decor is creative and impeccable, the flowers are always perfect, there’s an exceptional choice of dining options, and an excellent afternoon tea service, plus an award winning spa. And you’re right in the heart of things.
The UK’s Best Honeymoon Hotels
- The Torridon is a remote country escape on the shores of Upper Loch Torridon, with just 18 rooms and 53 acres of park and woodland. The decor its a wonderful mix of Scottish country house opulence and contemporary design. And there’s a seriously good restaurant and whisky bar.
- It’s not overseas, but it is over the sea, Longueville Manor in St. Saviour, Jersey, is a 14th century manor house turned 30 room hotel, surrounded by lovely gardens. There are tennis courts and a croquet lawn, plus fine dining in the 3 AA rosette restaurant, four-poster beds and every luxury you might need.
For a Romantic Country House Hotel
- Danesfield House Hotel and Spa is a spectacular Italian Renaissance mansion turned country house hotel, just outside Henley in Marlow-on-Thames. This 79 room property is a romantic charmer, surrounded by 65 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens leading all the way down to the river. As well as having a top spa, the hotel has an excellent restaurant.
The UK's Most Romantic Seaside Hotels
- Driftwood Hotel overlooks Cornwall’s Gerrans Bay, and has 14 light, airy, marine inspired rooms and a Michelin starred restaurant. Private and right on the coast.
- The Old Quay House Hotel in Fowey is a boutique, 11 room property with estuary views, crisp, minimalist rooms and an inventive restaurant.
- The Scarlet is a relaxed, adults only (a rarity in Cornwall) eco-friendly designer hotel overlooking Mawgan Porth beach. There are superb views and a great cocktail lounge and stylish restaurant. And the hot tubs here are very special indeed – they come heated by real log fires, and are outside, for fabulous sunsets, and star-gazing at night. Of all the many UK hotels with hot tubs, this is one of our favourites.
For a City Break
- Prestonfield is a beautiful hotel surrounded by peaceful gardens - but just five minutes from Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. There are 23 bedrooms decorated opulently and with wonderful detail, plus there are spectacular public spaces: three drawing rooms, a whisky bar and a fine restaurant.
- It might not be a big obvious choice for London, but Hazlitt’s in the West End is a wonderful Georgian-built boutique hotel in the thick of the action on Frith Street in Soho. It’s elegant, a bit quirky and extremely memorable, with a wonderful literary heritage.
- Now here’s one of those big London names you were expecting, The Berkeley. A legendary institution with views of Hyde Park and easy access to the best of Knightsbridge. The restaurants, bar and spa are topnotch and the service is impeccable.
- The Witchery by the Castle is famous in another city, Edinburgh. Its nine rooms are superbly located on the Royal Mile, within a Gothic building known for its romantic and eccentric interiors and Scottish restaurant.
Romantic Hotels in the UK with Hot Tubs
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 highlights:
- The Lake District boasts two excellent luxury hotels that offer the hot tub experience. The first, Gilpin Hotel and Lake House, offers a tempting offer of 'us and them', because if you splash out you get the much more private Lake House Suites, which have exclusive use of their own spa, as well as a romantic cedarwood hot tub on the lake edge.For romantic liaisons where you want absolute privacy amongst the finest landscape nature can offer, Gilpin Lodge is near unbeatable.
- Second, The Samling above Lake Windermere has long been a favourite of foodies and romantics – it's a small and charming country house hotel set amidst lovely walking country, overlooking the lake. Their outside hot tub is another with panoramic views.
- South Lodge Hotel is a classic country house retreat near Horsham, West Sussex, with 89 individually designed rooms and suites with handmade mattresses and pillow menus throughout. You’re surrounded by 93 acres of park and gardens and beyond that you have views of the South Downs. One of the restaurants has a Michelin star, the other two AA rosettes. Both the Godman and Farriers Suites have their own private terraces with hot tubs.
- The wonderful Vineyard at Stockcross, is a five star country escape close to Newbury, with a magnificent health centre and lovely grounds. The hot tub is inside, so good for all weathers, and can seat up to six comfortably. It's a great place to sip a glass of ice cold champagne before dinner.
For Foodies
- The Great House in pretty, medieval Laverham, is a luxurious, five room hotel with a French chic restaurant with 3 AA rosettes. Rooms start from around £95 per night.
- Kinloch Lodge on the Isle of Skye is a wonderfully quiet 15 room lodge just a short drive from Skye Bridge. The rooms are traditional and filled with natural light and there’s a stunning Michelin starred restaurant.
For a complete escape
- South of Belfast in rural Northern Ireland, Newforge House is a six room country house hotel. Built in the elegant Georgian era, the decor has been updated sympathetically where needed. One of the passionate owners is a professional, and accomplished chef.
- Ardanaiseig, on the beautiful banks of Loch Awe in Argyll is a glorious, and eccentric, baronial mansion turned 18 room country house hotel, with stunning views and award winning food. For real privacy choose the boat shed, which is right on the water.
- Also to the north of these isles, Duisdale House near Sleat on stunning south-east coast of the Isle of Skye, is a 19th century hunting lodge with 18 rooms. The gardens are beautiful. Great for those who love the great outdoors.
For great value
- The Printworks in Hastings, is a hip, seaside haven converted from an old print works. There are just two rooms, decorated loft style, with a bohemian feel. Rooms start from around £80 per night.
- The Miller of Mansfield is a traditional, ivy-covered inn in the pretty village of Goring-on-Thames. There are 15 individually designed suites, views of the river and the restaurant is well reviewed. Rooms start from around £80 per night.
- Somerset’s The Swan is a wonderful gourmet pub escape in the charming village of Wedmore. The rooms are luxurious, with stand alone bath tubs, and contemporary decor, and there’s a fabulous restaurant with food by the River Cottage’s Tom Blake.
- Morecombe’s beautiful Art Deco Midland Hotel is also under £100 per night, and offers beautiful, chic rooms and stunning suites, all with sweeping sea views and access to an excellent spa.
- The Bailbrook House Hotel, just outside Bath, is a tastefully renovated historic house with 2 acres of private gardens and wonderful views.
Still not sure?
- Browse our Ultimate Guide to UK Hotels with Hot Tubs for relaxing inspiration?
- Or consider our Guru’s list of 25 of the UK’s Best Country House Hotels?
- Or our Guru's list of the most romantic hotels just outside London?
- Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
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Cliveden House Taplow, Berkshire 44 rooms from £605
Swimming Pool - Indoor and Outdoor PoolsCountry House - Grand neoclassical pileRestaurant - Recommended.AntiquesRecommended by - Mr & Mrs Smith, Frommers, Kiwi CollectionBoasting 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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Prestonfield Edinburgh (Prestonfield) 23 rooms from £252
Romantic Break - This hotel oozes glammour, romance and seduction, with its wildly opulent canopied beds, rich fabrics and roaring fires.Local exploring - The best of both worlds- set in 20 acres of spectacular parklands, yet within spitting distance of Edinburgh.Great walks - Don't forget your welly boots, there are 20 acres of parkland to explore.Restrictions on children - Adults onlyRecommended by - Frommers, Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi CollectionOpulent extravagance at the Prestonfield just 5 mins from the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. Come for attentive service, divine bedrooms and spoiling galore. Fine dining is served in an ultra romantic setting. The concierge have a 'nothing's too much' attitude. Best for a truly indulgent stay. See More
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South Lodge Hotel Nr Horsham, West Sussex 89 rooms from £315
Private Hot Tub - Book the Godman or Farriers Suite for your own private terrace with hot tubTraditionalViews - Great views from hotelFour poster beds - For romantics.Recommended by - Small Luxury Hotels, Michelin TravelClassic luxury country retreat in 93 acres of parkland and woodland. Views over the South Downs, Michelin-starred restaurant, sumptuous rooms. See More
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Danesfield House Hotel and Spa Marlow-On-Thames, Buckinghamshire 55 rooms from £279
Spa - The Spa Illuminata Danesfield House offers pool, hot tub, steam room and a vast range of face and body treatmentsSights nearby - Pretty Thameside town Marlow is just 3 miles away, plus Windsor and Henley are close byRestaurant - Stylish restaurant with interiors by Anouska Hempel, serving modern British cuisineGreat walks - There are lovely walks round the gardens and plenty of riverside amblesRecommended by - Small Luxury HotelsRomantic French style country house set in 65 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens leading down to the River Thames. 75 Individually designed rooms offer traditional or contemporary interiors and lovely views. Excellent restaurant and spa. Perfect for some downtime away from the city. See More
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Corinthia London London (Westminster) 251 rooms from £425
Spa - ESPA Life — an enormous spa London's largestSpa breaksPrivate Hot Tub - Book the Hamilton Penthouse for a private outdoor hot tubRestaurant - Tom Kerridge's Bar & Grill for classic British cuisineRecommended by - Mr & Mrs SmithGrand hotel with a 21st century approach, top quality and irresistibly seductive. Perfect. See More
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Longueville Manor St Saviour, Jersey 29 rooms from £295
Traditional5* Luxury - Very high service standards.Swimming Pool - Indoor/outdoorRestaurant - Recommended.Recommended by - Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection, Relais & ChateauxCountry estate-style 14th-century manor house hotel with lovely gardens around a pool. Excellent facilities, including a tennis court, spa, gym, and fine dining. Four-poster beds and traditional, luxury furnishings. Deeply comfortable and luxurious. See More
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The Scotsman Hotel Edinburgh (Old Town) 82 rooms from £195
Great walks - Calton Hill, the city's UNESCO World Heritage Site or Arthur's Seat for even more impressive views.Sights nearby - Overlooking Edinburgh Castle.Views - Good city views.Romantic - Good for couples.Recommended by - Fodors, Frommers, Good Hotel GuideThis landmark Edinburgh building, the former Edwardian offices of The Scotsman newspaper and well-placed between the Old and New Towns, carefully mixes original features with a low-key modern luxury. The private cinema is an indulgent treat. See More
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Hazlitt's London (Soho) 27 rooms from £209
Full of characterLively area - In the thick of the action.TraditionalBoutiqueRecommended by - Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Tablet, Frommers, Good Hotel GuideThis charming Georgian boutique hotel is full of character and literary associations. Since 1718 Hazlitt's has been in the thick of it on vibrant Frith Street in the heart of Soho. Elegant wood-panelled rooms are the perfect base, relax with a book or explore the city. See More
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Driftwood Hotel St Mawes (Cornwall) 14 rooms from £220
Romantic Break - Perfect for a romantic retreat — think sunset strolls on the beach, candlelight dinners, and a private cabin with a terraceFoodies - Chef Olly Pierrepoint creates stunning dishes in this highly regarded 3AA Rosette restaurantGreat walks - Grab a hotel picnic and head out through the private estate right down to the coast and explore the beautiful beachesFishing - Right on the coast, there are plenty of fishing boats to rent for the day with equippment and guides if necessaryRecommended by - Mr & Mrs Smith, SawdaysSet in scenic private grounds, this chic and intimate hotel overlooks stunning Gerrans Bay. Light, marine inspired rooms are the perfect example of comfort meets luxury. Fabulous food at the restaurant makes dining a spoiling yet casual affair, matched by a fine wine list. A dream Cornish location. See More
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The Witchery by the Castle Edinburgh (Old Town) 9 rooms from £365
Foodies - Serving Scottish beef, lamb, game, the Witchery's famous steak tartare, briny-fresh seafood platters and even some haggis.Romantic Break - The glamourous, plush yet cosy interiors with love seats, four poster beds, and plenty of candles are perfect for couplesSights nearby - In the heart of the Old Town on Edinburgh's famous Royal MileFull of character - Theatrical red & gold, velveted roomsRecommended by - Frommers, Good Hotel GuideSuperbly located at the gates of the Castle, on the Royal Mile, sits this intimate, Gothic hotel. The rooms are luxurious, romantic & eccentric – think candlelit, wood paneling and plenty of velvet. Enjoy delicious Scottish food in the equally atmospheric restaurant. See More
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Old Quay House Hotel Fowey (Cornwall) 11 rooms from £200
Beach Life - Nearby seaside activities range from sailing to surfing, fishing to feasting and everything in betweenRomantic Break - A classic English romantic getaway with gourmet dining and romantic suites with sea viewsGreat walks - Wonderful walking all around this area, a particualr favourite is the picturesque Hall Walk, which ends in pretty PolruanSights nearby - The ruins of St Catherine’s Castle sit on the edge of the town and command spectacular views of the harbourRecommended by - Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection, Sawdays, Tablet, I EscapeA luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Fowey with estuary views and contemporary charm. Rooms boast wonderful views and simple minimalist style. The locally popular terraced restaurant serves an inventive menu of local seafood. An ideal spot for a romantic mini-break. See More
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Kinloch Lodge, Skye Isle of Skye 15 rooms from £280
Foodies - Foodies won't be able to resist the stunning award winning restaurant — check out the taster menu with excellent wine pairings.Romantic Break - A picturesque south Skype romantic retreat offering excellent food, roaring fires, chic suites and long country walks.Great walks - Venture on a Wild Walk with resident naturalist Mitchell Partridge, packed lunches are provided on request.Fishing - The area won't dissapoint, keen anglers can fish for salmon, brown trout and rainbow trout.Stunning scenery, dazzling food and plenty of peace and quiet just a short drive from the Skye Bridge. The elegant and traditional rooms are filled with natural light. A cosy sitting room with an open fireplace is the ideal spot to unwind with a whisky, and the restaurant serves exceptional food. See More
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The Vineyard at Stockcross Newbury, Berkshire 49 rooms from £194
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 CastleGreat walks - On the South DownsRecommended by - Relais & Chateaux5* 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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Gilpin Hotel & Lake House Windermere 31 rooms from £215
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 lakeFoodies - Michelin starred SOURCE restaurant is run by head chef Ollie Bridgwater formerly of Heston Blumenthal's Fat DuckFishing - Fishing can be organised on site, either on the private lake or a day trip to somewhere nearbyRecommended by - Good Hotel Guide, Relais & Chateaux, SawdaysA 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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The Scarlet, Cornwall Newquay 37 rooms from £195
Romantic Break - With a spoiling spa, luxurious rooms with sea views, and fine dining - this is the perfect setting for romanceSpa - An eco spa featuring a bromine-filtered indoor pool, outdoor natural reed pool, a wooden sauna, and pod treatment roomsRestaurant - Seasonal dishes are served in the restaurant alongside a good selection of winesSurfing - There are several surfing beaches nearby and plenty of surf schools tooRecommended by - Mr & Mrs Smith, Good Hotel Guide, SawdaysRelaxing, 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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The Samling Hotel Ambleside 11 rooms from £220
Country Escape - A smart base offering access to arguably some of the UK's finest countryside.Foodies - Don't miss the tasting menu in the Samling's Michelin starred restaurantActive HolidaySailing - Cruise across Lake Windermere and enjoy spectacular views.Recommended by - Mr & Mrs Smith, Michelin TravelA small luxury hotel boasting both chic interiors and fabulous views of Lake Windermere. Individually styled rooms are light and airy with bold colours, antiques and softly patterned fabrics. Offering exemplary cuisine and a choice selection of wines, this is a rural escape designed for indulging. See More
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The Torridon Ross-shire 18 rooms from £220
Bar - Over 300 Malt Whiskies available in the Whisky Bar not forgetting their very own Arcturus Gin and Cushie Doos Tonic.Restaurant - 3 AA RosettesSailing - 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, SawdaysCountry 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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Ardanaiseig By Taynuilt, Argyll 18 rooms from £109
Romantic - Book the 'away from it all' boat shed.Restaurant - Award winning food with 3 AA Rosettes.Fishing - Superb angling for trout, salmon, sea trout and perchViews - Fabulous views across Loch AweA 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. See More
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Duisdale House Sleat, Skye 18 rooms from £168
Traditional - A nineteenth century hunting lodge that has been converted into a hotelGreat walks - Skye is renowned for its fantastic walking for all abilities.Restaurant - The fine dining restaurant boasts two AA RosettesViews - Great views from hotelEscape to this rural nineteenth century hunting lodge on Skye's stunning south-east coastline. Explore the extensive gardens and local beauty, before retreating back to cosy four poster beds in surprisingly modern interiors. Look out for statement wallpaper. Great for a romantic weekend away! See More
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Newforge House Magheralin, County Armagh 6 rooms from £190
Foodies - Fine three course dining offering seasonal dishesGreat walks - Lurgan, Moira and Hillsborough ParksSights nearby - Lurgan Park & Brownlow HouseSailing - Kinnego MarinaRecommended by - SawdaysSophisticated 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. See More
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The Berkeley London (Knightsbridge) 214 rooms from £480
Spa breaks - As well as fabulous treatments at the Bamford Wellness Spa, there's a rooftop pool with retracting roof for summer monthsBar - The Blue Bar, a fashionable Art Deco institution popular with celebsRestaurant - The Collins Room restaurant and fabulous traditional afternoon teaSwimming Pool - Outdoor Pool with great viewsRecommended by - Tablet, Fodors, Frommers, Kiwi Collection, Michelin TravelStunning Grand Dame with impeccable service opposite Hyde Park, offering beautiful rooms and suites, some with terraces and many with great views, a rooftop pool, iconic bar, pampering spa and gourmet dining. The perfect luxury city break. See More
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The Swan Wedmore, Somerset 7 rooms from £85
Foodies - Fantastic food from River Cottage's Tom Blake.Value chicSights nearby - The medieval cathedral in Wells.Great walks - Mendip Hills to the north.Recommended by - Mr & Mrs Smith, I EscapeA gourmet little pub in a charming village with gorgeous rooms. Luxurious rooms have enormous stand alone bath tubs, contemporary furnishings and DVD players. Fabulous restaurant and acclaimed chef. The perfect spot for a romantic jaunt in the Somerset countryside. See More
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Midland Hotel Morecambe, Lancashire 44 rooms from £119
Views - Great views from hotelSeaside - Ideal for a seaside holiday.Designer - Uniquely designed interiors.Sea Views - From some rooms.Fabulous Art Deco classic seaside hotel brought back from the dead and transmogrofied into a chic, sleek, ocean liner of a hotel. Sweeping seaviews, stunning suites and a spa. Plus Morecombe to explore. See More
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Miller of Mansfield Goring on Thames, Oxfordshire 15 rooms from £90
Romantic - Good for couples.Restaurant - Recommended.TraditionalRestaurant with roomsRecommended by - I Escape, SawdaysTraditional ivy-covered inn in village setting. Acclaimed restaurant, bar, individually designed suites, Overlooking the river. See More
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Bailbrook House Hotel Bath (London Road West) 94 rooms from £185
TraditionalFour poster beds - For romantics.Sights nearby - Well located for major sights.Restaurant - Recommended.Newly renovated historic property on the outskirts of town. Set amid 20 acres of private gardens, Bailbrook House enjoys great views over both city and surrounding countryside. Ideal for both leisure and business travellers. See More
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Loch Lomond Arms Hotel Luss, Argyll 14 rooms from £100
Views - of lovely Loch LomondSailing - on Loch LomondFour poster beds - in one roomOutstanding locationComfortable rooms, glorious views of beautiful Loch Lomond, excellent locally-sourced gastropub food and friendly service on the Luss Estate. See More
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