About United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is small in size, but grand in stature when it comes to history. In addition to heritage monuments aplenty, great cultural treasures, and green and pleasant lands, the UK has some truly dramatic scenery and is studded with charming villages. Yes, it can be a bit rainy, windy, and occasionally snowy, but that is all the more reason to make sure you have booked a room at one of the best places to stay in the United Kingdom. You'll be reassured that when the heavens open, you can retreat to somewhere cosy and characterful, in fitting with your preferences as a solo traveller, couple, group or friends or family.

Some of our ‘best of’ United Kingdom Collections

London dazzles with Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, and the Tower of London, while Edinburgh captivates with its imposing castle atop the Royal Mile. Lovely Bath is famed for its Georgian elegance, Beatles-mania is ever-present in Liverpool, Glasgow’s art scene is thriving, and Manchester has a seriously cool evening vibe. Beyond the cities, discover mystical Stonehenge, the romantic Lake District with its Wordsworth connections, the enchanting atmosphere of student-filled Oxford and Cambridge, and the craggy coastlines of Cornwall and the Scottish Highlands. Each region boasts its own character—from the gentle rolling hills of the Cotswolds with its honey-coloured villages to the wild beauty of the Norfolk Broads and the atmospheric moors of Yorkshire.

Being an island nation, the UK is rich in coastal treasures and seaside towns, each with distinct charm. Brighton entices with its cool, buzzy atmosphere and iconic pier, while St. Ives offers artistic heritage alongside beautiful beaches. Dartmouth combines naval history with steam trains and nearby literary connections, and Salcombe delights sailors and ice cream enthusiasts alike. Whether you seek solitary coastal walks, art-filled cities or lively late nights in characterful pubs and clubs, the best places to stay in the United Kingdom can be found in every corner of this diverse land.

The Best Places to Stay in the United Kingdom

For historic highlights

  • Claridges has long been one of London's most iconic hotels. Red brick interiors reveal generous reception rooms with glittering chandeliers, chequerboard floors and smart corners for a coffee or a cocktail. Having recently benefited from a glamorous yet sympathetic makeover, this grande dame of a hotel is a stunning spot for an enchanting London holiday. 
  • Ettington Park Hotel, a gloriously grand Neo-Gothic mansion turned country house hotel near Stratford upon Avon — the birthplace of Shakespeare — is a lavish retreat for those looking to unwind amidst well-preserved heritage grandeur. Experience Tudor history for yourself whilst soaking up the best of the Bard's hometown. 
  • The Royal Crescent Hotel in Bath sits right on the famous curved street itself. A striking example of Georgian architecture, the hotel has opulent guest rooms, suites and shared spaces, perfect for a romantic escape to one of the south of England's most charming cities. Fans of Jane Austen should make a bee-line for this one!

On the coast

  • Driftwood Hotel near Portscatho, Cornwall, feels as much Côte d'Azur as Cornwall with its light, airy and comfortable interiors. There is a semi-private beach at the foot of the garden, decked terraces with a dreamy view and a romantic cabin halfway down the cliff.
  • Hotel Tresanton oozes understated sophistication in St Mawes. Think tranquil interiors decorated in well-chosen colours, a screening room for film nights and a private yacht for excursions out on the water. A seaside holiday with all the luxury touches. 
  • The Grand Hotel, Brighton has a more classic feel, with 200-odd elegant guest rooms set across seven floors on Brighton's waterfront. Dazzling views are a huge part of the appeal, as are the serene spa, piano bar and generous afternoon teas. Brilliant for exploring the best of Brighton, too. 
  • Melfort House in Argyll, on Scotland's picturesque west coast, overlooks glorious Asknish Bay and the islands of Scarba and Jura. An intimate B&B hideaway with just three cosy guest rooms, hearty breakfasts and fantastic fishing or hiking. The National Trust Arduaine Gardens are nearby.
  • Star Castle on St Mary's in the Scilly Islands is undoubtedly one of the region's most unusual hotels. A 16th century star-shaped castle, this spot boasts pretty bedrooms with ocean views, and two restaurants. The owner is a keen lobster fisherman and his catches often appear on the menu. For ramblers and relaxed holidaymakers. 

Great country house hotels

  • Cliveden House is a National Trust treasure, and probably still best known for its part in the Profumo affair. It also 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, original Old Masters on the walls, a spa with outdoor Canadian cedarwood hot tubs, boats on the river, two pools and a truly wonderful afternoon tea.
  • Hotel Endsleigh is a historic shooting lodge in Devon's Tamar Valley. Styled by Olga Polizzi, the lodge has been transformed into an intimate 18-room hotel with two fairytale suites and a private villa. The Mediterranean food is fabulous, private picnics can be arranged in the flower-filled grounds, and families are welcome. Gorgeous. 
  • Stapleford Park is an expansive Leicestershire estate with gardens designed by Capability Brown, and a plethora of activities ranging from archery to mini golf. The 55-room Georgian mansion has lavish interiors, and is a brilliant choice for a country wedding. 
  • Hartwell House is owned by the National Trust and run as a country house hotel with all the trimmings. Think gorgeous period interiors, landscaped gardens, roaring log fires and fine paintings on the walls. A classic choice for heritage aficionados. 
  • Inverlochy Castle, which impressed Queen Victoria in 1873, sits at the foot of Ben Nevis, close to Fort William. As well as spectacular views and beautiful decor in the 17 rooms, there’s a fine-dining restaurant overseen by Michel Roux Jnr. One for those seeking solitude.

For families

  • Calcot Manor Hotel & Spa in the Cotswolds is a restored former farmhouse, with a courtyard of lime trees and old barns. Praised for the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff, the hotel has comfortable bedrooms, an indoor pool and an outdoor hot tub, as well as open fires and stacks of activities including tennis and horse riding. Plus there's a crèche for little ones. Brilliant for families. 
  • The Cary Arms enjoys a seafront location with fabulous views over Babbacombe Beach in Torquay. Families will love the three self-catering cottages, each with multiple bedrooms. There's excellent gastropub fare and an outdoor barbecue and pizza oven during the summer months — perfect for relaxed evenings with guests of all ages after days spent in the sea. 
  • The Master Builder’s is right beside the Beaulieu River in the New Forest, where many of Nelson’s ships were built. Flexible room options are ideal for families, pets are welcome, and there's fantastic cycling and walking, as well as outdoor activities for kids on the nearby Beaulieu Estate. 

For foodies

  • Ardanaiseig, on the beautiful banks of Loch Awe in Argyll, is a glorious and eclectic baronial mansion. Now an 18-room country house hotel, this rural gem promises stunning views and award-winning food. Chef Gary Goldie delights in crafting innovative dishes from foraged ingredients, and fishing and foraging excursions come highly recommended. 
  • Pennyhill Park Hotel and Spa, outside Bagshot, Surrey, is a beautiful, ivy-clad 19th century house with a Michelin-starred restaurant and an award winning spa. There are 124 rooms and suites, surrounded by 120 acres of park and gardens. Book your tables at the Latymer (and the more casual Hillfield) well in advance, and expect exceptional fine dining. 
  • The Torridon is a remote country escape with a food focus on the shores of Upper Loch Torridon, with just 18 rooms and 53 acres of park and woodland. The decor is a wonderful fusion of Scottish country house opulence and contemporary design. There’s a seriously good restaurant showcasing seasonal produce, and a whisky bar with more than 300 labels to sample and savour.
  • The Atlantic Hotel on Jersey’s St. Ouen’s Bay is famed for its fabulous Ocean Restaurant, which has won a number of awards since it opened in the 1970s. This smart island escape has a superb spa, gym, tennis courts and indoor and outdoor pools — plus the La Moye Golf Course is just next door. For foodies and active types. 

For a charming pub with rooms

  • The Cott Inn in Dartington, right between Dartmoor and the South Devon coastline, is a pretty thatched building with exposed beams, low ceilings and flower-filled gardens.The perfect country escape with a snug bar, cosy guest rooms and an excellent restaurant.
  • The Peat Spade Inn in the Test Valley, has long been a fishing inn; you can expect tartan decor, along with pictures of fish in the old pub. The eight, characterful rooms are perfect for anyone exploring the valley, and there are great walks starting from the door. There’s also a delicious seasonal menu and a welcoming atmosphere at the bar.
  • The Crab & Boar in Berkshire was visited by Oliver Cromwell himself. A brilliant boutique bolthole, this charming pub has romantic guest rooms — some with private hot tubs and four-poster beds. The menu takes its inspiration from the pub's name, and combines seafood and field-to-fork game, and the two acres of manicured gardens are ideal for celebrations. Lovely. 

For an apartment or holiday cottage

  • For a self-catering spot, we recommend visiting our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

  • Heathrow is the UK’s main international airport, and the second-busiest in the world. It’s 23kms from the centre of London, which you can access by tube, bus, train or taxi. Gatwick, the UK’s second-largest airport, is a bit further out of town. Stansted, City and Luton are London’s other airports. Outside London, Manchester Airport is the UK’s main air hub, with connections to hundreds of locations worldwide. Liverpool, Newcastle, Bristol, Cardiff, Leeds and Birmingham also have international airports with good connections to Europe and beyond. Scotland has Edinburgh Airport, Glasgow Airport, Aberdeen Airport, Dundee Airport or Inverness Airport.
  • Road trip opportunities abound in the UK countryside, and driving through little villages and towns is a wonderful way to discover the region. If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
  • The UK is a year-round destination, with plenty of sightseeing opportunities whatever the time of year.  If you’re hoping for fair days and sunshine, travel in late spring, summer and early autumn. There’s definitely something to be said for a cosy pub fire on a winter’s day, too!  

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Best hotels in United Kingdom

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The best hotels in Scotland

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No11

Edinburgh (Calton Hill)

An upmarket brasserie with rooms in a Georgian townhouse near the city centre. Rooms are the perfect balance of Scottish tradition & modern luxury while the restaurant offers impressive contemporary fare. Free-standing baths & opulent four-poster beds make this a fab choice for couples.

  • Restaurant - Set in a classic dining room, the award-winning restaurant prides itself on ingredients from artisan suppliers & local foragers
  • Foodies - As well as the brasserie on-site, there's easy access to four to the city's best fine-dining restaurants
  • Romantic Break - A tranquil yet centrally-located oasis offering quality food & spoiling suites
  • Barefoot Luxury - Expect Egyptian linens, fluffy robes & deluxe bath products
from $86 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Albyn Townhouse

Edinburgh (Bruntsfield)

Set in a lovely Victorian former Manse, the Albyn Townhouse is an excellent B&B a little away from Edinburgh city centre. Lovely, comfortable rooms feature ornate beds and sofas that are great for relaxing. A great base from which to explore Edinburgh's old town.

  • Local exploring - Although it's not centrally located Albyn Townhouse is a great base for exploring the city
  • Great walks - Go for a lovely walk through the Meadows and up Arthur's Seat.
  • Sights nearby - Go and visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
from $99 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms

The best hotels in London

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Dog & Fox

London (Wimbledon)

With characterful rooms above a buzzy ground-floor gastropub, this boutique hotel in chichi Wimbledon Village offers a capital stay within striking distance of central London – kids and dogs welcome.

  • Families - Family-friendly bedrooms with extra beds available for all. Free for under two's
  • Restaurant - Tasty pub food using the freshest ingredients
  • Sights nearby - Inc. Wimbledon Tennis Club
  • Traditional
from $208 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
The Princess Royal Pub & Restaurant

London (Notting Hill)

A beautifully designed pub with a restaurant, bar and four individually styled bedrooms in the heart of London's trendy Notting Hill. Seasonal dishes using British produce with a mouth-watering menu created by Ben Tish. A relaxed and stylish place to go and be seen.

  • Local markets - Portobello Market is within walking distance
  • Restaurant - Head Chef is Ben Tish
  • Designer
  • Restaurant with rooms
from $317 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Yorkshire

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The Foxglove

Huddersfield

A charming historic inn set in the scenic Burton Dean Valley. Having undergone a complete refurb, rooms are fresh and contemporary but still packed with character. Downstairs the atmospheric pub serves seasonal British classics and real ale. A charming base for a relaxing rural getaway.

  • Country Escape - With hearty cuisine, cosy rooms, roaring fires, and its location in a conservation area — this is an ideal rural escape
  • Short break - Located just 20 mins outside Leeds making it an easy choice for a quick weekend getaway
  • Value chic - With rooms starting at well under £100, this is a very reasonably priced stay
  • Great walks - There are miles of scenic hiking trails running through Burton Dean Valley
from $82 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
Ascot House Hotel

Harrogate

A stunning Victorian town house, now boutique hotel, located in historic Harrogate. A handful of chic rooms are individually styled with plush headboards, heavy draped fabrics, crisp white linen and enormous windows. A fine dining restaurant and atmospheric bar lounge make this a fabulous stay.

  • Active Holiday - The Yorkshire Dales are easily accessible making this a great base for those on a walking or cycling getaway
  • Local exploring - There's plenty to do locally in Harrogate including museums, theatre, and relaxing in traditional baths
  • Romantic Break - For couples, book the atmospheric Turret Room which comes with a romantically draped bed and fireplace
  • Boutique - Expect a contemporary take on traditional British style making this a very chic boutique stay
from $85 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms

The best hotels in Wales

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The Newbridge On Usk

Monmouthshire

Restaurant with rooms located on a remote stretch of the River Usk. Excellent food is made with ingredients from the kitchen garden; dine al fresco on the water's edge. Sumptuous rooms, some with four-poster beds, have a deluxe feel. Guests have access to nearby golf & spa resort if they fancy it.

  • Country Escape - Serene & tranquil setting for quiet weekends; the place to dine well & just enjoy your idyllic surroundings
  • Foodies - Surprisingly for such a remote spot, the 2 AA Rosette award-winning restaurant has become a foodie hotspot
  • Restaurant - Tuck into impressive contemporary British food made with local & seasonal ingredients & enjoy the riverside setting
  • Local markets - To sample more local food drive to Abergavenny - Wales' food hotspot
from $121 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Noyadd Trefawr

Ceredigion

A striking Georgian country house set in scenic countryside near the coast. The main house features 3 bedrooms that mix period features with contemporary style. A further 2 rooms are found in the self-catering cottage. Expect homemade breakfasts served with jazz music. A luxurious rural getaway.

  • Groups - With 3 rooms in the main house and 2 in the cottage this is a good option to rent out in its entirety with friends or family
  • Country Escape - A picture-perfect country home with tasteful interiors and stunning surrounding countryside — ideal for long walks
  • Self catering - Book the two bedroom cottage with all the amenities of home for an independent stay
  • Sights nearby - Castles can be explored at Cilgerran, Cardigan, Newcastle Emlyn and Nevern
from $127 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms

The best hotels in Devon

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Hotel du Vin Exeter

Exeter (Devon)

This grand hotel is housed in a Victorian former hospital in the heart of Exeter. There's nothing clinical about the interiors with vibrant bursts of bright orange and blue. There's a chic French bistro, a terrace overlooking a walled garden, plus a spa with indoor/outdoor pool. A stylish city stay.

  • Short break - Within walking distance of Exeter Central Station, the hotel offers guests an ideal base while visiting this historic city
  • Total relaxation - Indulge in a pampering session at the spa, a relaxing and quiet haven with natural products originally sourced from Devon
  • Active Holiday - Exeter's location on the River Exe, close to countryside and the coast, is perfect for walking, cycling, and water sports
  • Sights nearby - Exeter Cathedral is a short walk away, a magnificent example of gothic architecture
from $76 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Rose & Crown

Devon (Yealmpton)

Immediately striking due to an orange facade, the Rose & Crown is a charming Devonshire inn. Rooms are comfortable and spacious and the hotel restaurant offers delicious local cuisine. A great launchpad from which to explore the beautiful countryside surrounding Yealmpton.

  • Local exploring - A great base for exploring Yealmpton and the surrounding countryside.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the lovely nearby Cathedral Church of St Mary and St Boniface.
  • Great walks - Go for lovely walks along the river Yealm.
  • Restaurant
from $100 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Cornwall

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Hay Barton

Cornwall (Tregony)

Charming hosts and a delightful setting makes Hay Barton a wonderful place to stay. Full of character and charm, the individually decorated rooms feature elegant furnishings and tasteful artworks. With homemade breakfasts and beautiful surrounding walking country, this is an idyllic rural getaway.

  • Country Escape - Set amidst beautiful rolling Cornish countryside, Hay Barton is a tranquil spot for a rural getaway
  • Groups - With just four rooms, this is an ideal option to rent out in its entirety with family or friends
  • Self catering - The Potager is a separate cottage that comes with a kitchenette
  • Great walks - The surrounding landscape is full of beautiful walking routes with Place to St Anthony being particularly scenic
from $89 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Old Parsonage, Cornwall

Cornwall (Cornwall)

A delightful B&B set in a quaint fishing village. Five individually styled rooms feature patterned wallpaper, plush headboards and parquet flooring. Daily changing breakfasts are utterly indulgent and the hosts are ever welcoming. A charming base to explore the area from.

  • Local exploring - With beaches to explore, The Eden Project, and endless cycling and hiking trails locally - there is plenty to do in the area
  • Sights nearby - For a real-life ‘Secret Garden’ experience head to the Lost Gardens of Heligan
  • Restrictions on children - Adults only unless the whole house is booked for one group
  • Great walks - Take long walks along Cornwall's beautiful coastal path
from $101 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Cumbria

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Langdale Hotel & Spa

Cumbria (Great Langdale)

With a series of low-lying, traditional-slate buildings dotted around a forested estate, this hotel feels a world away from the Lake District’s tourist honeypots. Tucked in the Langdale Valley, it’s close to some great walking yet both Ambleside and Coniston are within a 15-minute drive.

  • Spa breaks - The Brimstone Spa is a stunning indoor/outdoor space exclusively for adults, with numerous pools, saunas and treatments.
  • Families - Langdale welcomes families and has great on site facilities including playground, tennis court, and swimming pool.
  • Total relaxation - Kick back and relax with comfy suites, great food, hearty ales, heated indoor pool, sauna, and spa therapies.
  • Back to Nature - Step away from the hustle bustle of a city and enjoy nature at its best with 35 acres of stunning grounds.
from $254 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Brimstone

Cumbria (Nr Ambleside )

Bold slate-and-glass chalet-style hotel with modern suites, and modern-style butlers, designed for indulgence. Brimstone is set amongst fine walking country in Cumbria and with a swish on-site spa, you can be as lazy or active as you like.

  • Back to Nature - The Lake District provides the ideal playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Spa breaks - Unwind in the state of the art spa.
  • Great walks - Find plenty of nearby fells including Langdale Pikes, Coniston Old Man and Wetherlam.
  • Sailing - Take a relaxing cruise on Lake Windermere.
from $622 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees