The South West region includes much of the UK’s sunniest, sandiest coast, Dartmoor, Exmoor, the New Forest, Stonehenge, the Jurassic Coast, the Eden Project, a slew of pretty seaside towns and villages, arty charmer: St. Ives, Georgian charmer: Bath, architectural charmer: Salisbury and the Isles of Scilly - and those are really just the romantic cherries on the Cornish cream Ice cream of the South West.
Our Guru’s collection of the most romantic hotels in the South West includes recommendations close to all of these ‘cherries’, but it also includes some great off-the-beaten track properties perfect for walkers or anyone wanting to escape.
The Boskerris Hotel in St. Ives is a sophisticated seaside hotel with light, airy, Mediterranean feeling decor and a spectacular decked terrace overlooking the bay. There are amazing views from most rooms and they do a fabulous afternoon tea.
The Castle Hotel, Taunton, is a Norman Fortress which has been operated as an inn or hotel since the 12th century. The location is spectacular and the 44 rooms are comfortable and classically decorated, but with all the mod. cons., don’t be put off by the age. There’s a choice of formal dining or something a bit more relaxed.
The Gainsborough Bath Spa is where you should stay if you really want the full Bath Spa experience: its world class spa takes full advantage of those famous waters with modern therapies and classic, personalised treatments. The hotel is a Grade II listed building with Georgian and Victorian facades and luxurious, elegant interiors. There are 99 rooms, plus a fine restaurant, a chic bar and a beautiful afternoon tearoom.
Private and intimate, the Driftwood Hotel has stunning views overlooking Gerrans Bay near Portscatho. The restaurant has a Michelin star and a fine wine list and they’ll do you a wonderful picnic if you feel you want even more privacy. Surrounded by extensive private gardens this is a great place to come for peace and quiet.
The Queen’s Arms is a quintessentially English Georgian era inn in Corton Denham. There are just eight rooms, and a wonderful cosy pub serving locally sourced food - including their own eggs and pigs - plus you’re right by some exquisite National Trust properties and plenty of walking trails.
Tor Cottage is an idyllic B&B hidden away down a quiet country lane surrounded by 28 acres of beautiful countryside. The owner is known for doing a fabulous full English, plus most rooms have a log burning stove and a private terrace. There’s also a pool. Sigh. Great for walkers too.
The Close Hotel is a grand, 16th century manor house turned 18 room boutique hotel in the market town of Tetbury. Each rooms has been individually decorated, so choose what you like, from pretty florals to dark country checks. Many rooms have roll-top baths and/ or views.
Overlooking 600 acres of National Trust common land, The Ragged Cot is a 17th century inn with nine comfortable rooms and an excellent seasonal menu. This is the perfect country hidey-hole, ideal for walkers and lovers of peace.
The Old Rectory Hotel is right by to the coast within the Exmoor National Park, so the views are incredible and the atmosphere is relaxed and peaceful. You’re 500 metres from the Exmoor coast path and a 30 minute drive from beautiful Woolacombe Beach.
Little Barwick House by Yeovil is an award-winning restaurant with six rooms, surrounded by three acres of beautiful gardens. Unpretentious and relaxing, Little Barwick is a delicious hideaway close to some lovely historic houses and offering unbeatable service.
The Lamb at Hindon is an intimate village inn which has amassed 800 years worth of charm and history. There are 19 elegant rooms, hearty meals, roaring fires and the beautiful surrounds of the Salisbury Plains.
Wiltshire seems to have a wealth of lovely pubs-with-rooms and inns, and the 15th century Sign of the Angel in charming Lacock is another great example. There are five rooms all with wonky beams, huge fires, oak furniture and antique beds, and a restaurant specialising in locally sourced cuisine.
The Castle Inn is even older! This time dating from the 12th century, in Chippenham, a beautiful Cotswolds village on the Bybrook River just ten miles from Bath. Idyllic and peaceful and great for fisher-folk.
Ellenborough Park is a rambling 16th Century manor beautifully restored, and set amid 90 acres of picturesque, National Trust managed land. There are 62 rooms and suites with opulent details like four-poster beds and quality antiques. There’s gourmet dining and and exotic spa and heated outdoor pool.
Cowley Manor is a contemporary-chic manor house on 55 beautiful acres of Cotswold countryside. This is the perfect escape for stressed urbanites, with two pools, a gym, an award-winning modernist spa, an menu created by Mark Hix, beautiful grounds and even a ‘lifestyle shop’?
Kentisbury Grange is a converted manor house surrounded by pretty gardens right on the edge Exmouth National Park. The Grange has 16 rooms, decorated in a contemporary style and a superb restaurant by Michelin-starred chef, Michael Caines.
Jacobean Manor turned luxurious family friendly retreat, Woolley Grange has 26 comfortable, modern rooms, a relaxed restaurant and stunning gardens with beautiful pools. They also have a kid’s club and a games room and run an Ofsted-registered playroom, and offer babysitting. And of course the spa is divine.
Castle Combe’s The Manor House is an elegant country house turned 48 room hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant and a superb golf course. The decor is traditional country house hotel and the rooms are luxurious. The gardens are grand - and there’s 365 acres worth of land to explore, including the golf course, croquet lawns, tennis courts and a fly-fishing stream.
Gidleigh Park Hotel is a super luxurious Dartmoor retreat in 107 ares of beautiful land. There are 24 plush rooms, all with original art and antiques and huge sash windows, plus a two Michelin-starred menu served in a grandiose, atmospheric dining room.
For those traveling with kinder in tow, Calcot Manor Hotel might be the ideal offering - it’s one of the best examples in the country of a genuinely family friendly hotel which also works for couples. Set on its own estate, this converted farmhouse has a beautiful courtyard and old barns all now used for activities, and the spa and indoor pool.
Lucknam Park in Chippenham is a luxurious country home with painstakingly kept gardens and parkland, a restaurant run by a Michelin-starred chef, a beautiful spa with both an indoor and outdoor pool and an impressive equestrian centre. There are 42 rooms with high ceilings, chandeliers and four-poster beds.
If you’re looking for a luxurious spa escape in the Cotswolds, Whately Manor will not disappoint. The spa is award-winning, the restaurant has a Michelin-star and there’s every mod. con. available, dressed up beautifully. No children under 12.
Overlooking Mawgan North beach, The Scarlet is a eco-deign hotel with amazing sea views and a stylish cocktail lounge and restaurant. You can reserve a time slot in the log fired clifftop hot tub surrounded by stunning views.
If you’re looking for somewhere romantic try the Manor House Hotel in Moreton in March in the Cotswolds, a picturesque, 16th century charmer, with four-poster beds and award-winning fine dining. If you want your own private hot tub book the Apple Cottage Suite, which also has its own private garden.
The Swan Hotel, Bibury is a 17th Century coaching inn with wonderful views over the River Coln. In winter expect cracking fires, and in summer the inn opens out onto resplendently coloured gardens. The rooms are cosy, with four-poster beds and floral upholstery, and there’s a private hot tub.
Pebble House on the cliffs above Mevagissey, is a contemporary, luxurious, adults-only guesthouse with incredible views. There are just six rooms and the coast path is right outside the door.
The Christchurch Harbour Hotel & Spa is perfect for an indulgent break by the sea. Right on Christchurch Harbour and newly refurbished, this is a sophisticated take on the traditional seaside hotel with a rather glamorous bar and a great restaurant on the ‘top deck’ of the hotel. There’s also a stylish spa.
For a rural view, try the Wooden Cabbage, a beautiful private country house with stunning views, fragrant gardens and stylish decor. There are just three rooms and the friendly owners are hosts rather than managers, the breakfasts are locally sourced and you’re surrounded by potential walking trails.
The Nare is a country-house style hotel right on the beach with 36 large, elegant, colonial style rooms with sea views. The Nare also offers a choice of two restaurants, and there’s a tennis court, croquet lawn, a spa, indoor and outdoor pools and a bar and lounge. It’s secluded and magnificent.
The Salcombe Harbour Hotel is on the edge of pretty, bustling Salcombe, and offers spectacular estuary views, wonderful terraces, a spa, pool and cinema.
The Cary Arms is a boutique hotel with the charm of a Great British Pub and an enviable clifftop position. There are eight, chic, white-washed rooms, glorious spa and a hearty, gastro-pub style restaurant.
The Bridgehouse Hotel in West Dorset, is a 14 room hotel with wooden beams, open fireplaces and a cosy atmosphere. The decor is quite traditional and romantic and you’re surrounded by some of the most picturesque views in the UK. There’s also an award-winning restaurant.
History and literature can both be extremely romantic, so The Old Rectory, where Thomas Hardy met his wife, makes for a wonderfully romantic option. It’s also in a secluded and tranquil spot, and has just four rooms and a lovely walled veggie garden which is where much of the beautifully cooked local food served here originates. Rooms start from around £85 per night.
The Seagrave Arms is a commanding, double fronted Georgian property in pretty Chipping Campden. There are just eight rooms with original features like flagstone floors and open fireplaces, complimented with comfy beds snd luxurious linens. The restaurant is great. Rooms start from around £90 per night.
Botelet is another four room property with a secluded, yet stunning, location and a very reasonable room rate. Botelet is a converted family farm with extremely comfortable and stylish interiors, which haven’t lost their old world charm. There are also cosy yurts if that sounds more romantic to you. You’re about 45minutes from Polzeath Beach.
The Archangel is a chic and sophisticated restaurant with ten rooms in Frome. The decor mixes the original and contemporary and there are exposed beams, freestanding baths and some beautiful frescoes. The restaurant is definitely part of the experience and has a lovely sunny courtyard.
Malmesbury
A stylish, yet informal, listed period house. Each of the 12 rooms is spacious, light and elegant with a blend of antique and contemporary and the best have in-room bathtubs. A relaxing retreat and a perfect base for exploring the Cotswolds with an excellent restaurant and a large pool.
The Cotswolds
A charming 14th century manor house in Tetbury, Gloucestershire. Chic rooms feature bold wallpaper prints, soft tones, deep soaking tubs and trendy artworks. The beautifully landscaped gardens feature a range of family activities as well as a pool and spa. An elegant country retreat.
Chagford
Super luxurious and pampering Dartmoor retreat, on 107 acres of mature grounds. The plush rooms come with antique furnishings, original art and huge sash windows. The Michelin stared food is served in an atmospheric and grandiose dining room. Peaceful, restful and totally heavenly.
The Cotswolds
A contemporary-chic manor house set on 55 beautiful acres, in the Cotswold countryside. Trendy rooms mix the best of both worlds, with original sash windows, high ceilings and fireplaces mixed with sleek handmade modern furnishings and bold colour combos. A sophisticated, fun country escape.
Devon (Devon)
A truly English hotel overlooking Dartmoor, close to the Cornish border. Beautiful gardens, sloping down to the river, with an award winning fishing school. Spacious and comfortable rooms with sleek country house interiors. Dine on local produce at the award winning restaurant. Bliss.
Tavistock (Gulworthy)
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.
Bath
A charming Georgian townhouse in the heart of Bath, minutes from the sights. The hotel stays true to its history with ornate decor and a pretty Jane Austen inspired garden. A splendid breakfast is served in the chandelier decked dining room. Perfection, at a very reasonable price.
Chippenham
A luxury country home full of character. High ceilinged rooms are adorned with chandeliers and four poster beds. The surrounding parkland and gardens are painstakingly up kept. A spa, indoor pool and outdoor plunge pool aid relaxation. The fine dining restaurant is headed by a Michelin Star chef.
Wiltshire
A wonderfully warm and homely 15th century inn in the exceptionally beautiful Lacock village. Newly renovated and bursting with character- think wonky beams, huge fires, antique beds, artful oak furniture and flagstoned passageways. The restaurant serves wonderful locally sourced cuisine. Heaven.
Chippenham (Castle Combe)
English country house turned hotel, resting on extensive grounds with a superb golf course, Michelin Star restaurant and the Full Glass Bar. Comfort, classic-design and charm make up the luxurious rooms. Relax in the garden, explore local Bath or delve into Cotswold countryside for adventures.
Wiltshire (Horningsham)
Nestled on the Longleat Estate, this stylishly decorated pub reflects the boho-chic of Lord Bath. Modern and comfortable rooms above the quintessentially English pub serving traditional food. Located between Bath and Stonehenge, this pub is a great base for local exploring and family mini breaks.
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.
Wiltshire (Wiltshire)
Intimate English village Inn full of charm and history - an institution for 800 years. Renovated, elegant rooms are cosy and plush. Guests are welcomed by roaring fires, hearty meals, and beautiful surroundings. A country escape or a stopover en route further West.
Dorset (Dorset)
A reinvention of the English country pub, boutique style. Original highlights - wooden beams, inglenook fireplaces - retained, with addition of stylish, freshly designed rooms. The gourmet pub food has gained a reputation for Sunday Roasts, inspired menus and a breakfast fit for a king.
Wareham (Dorset)
A slice of old England served with China tea. With pretty gardens bordering the river, The Priory is a delightful and luxury historic hotel on the edge of Dorset’s Isle of Purbeck.
Dorset (Dorset)
The Museum Inn is an award-winning country pub located in a picture-postcard village in rural north Dorset. Eight individually designed rooms either in the main house or converted stables feature plush decor with Bramley bathroom accessories. Plus a separate large cottage for families or groups.
Dorset (Dorset)
A Hardy-esque country house turned hotel, surrounded by lovely gardens and spectacular countryside. Luxurious rooms boasts elaborate floral fabrics and plush furnishings. The gourmet restaurant is not to be missed, nor the extensive bar. A cosy countryside base, complete with pool, spa and tennis.
Taunton (Somerset)
Since the 12th Century this Norman Fortress has opened its doors to travelers with immaculate hospitality and spectacular countryside spot. Comfortable, classically decorated rooms offer all the mod-cons. BRAZZ, the contemporary brasserie and locally popular Bow Restaurant offers a range of dishes.
Somerset (Somerset)
This former hunting lodge, overlooking the village green, is an intimate stay for food and nature lovers. Rooms are contemporary and light offering en suite bathrooms. The restaurant prides itself on using only the finest produce and a menu revolving around this, matched with a well-stocked bar.
Yeovil (Somerset)
Quintessentially English Georgian Inn nestled in the Dorset/Somerset countryside welcomes guests with winter fires, bare boards and comfortable rooms. Enjoy the Moor Queen’s on tap and extremely enjoyable food. A little country treasure, with great walks from the front door.
Torquay
A boutique hotel with the charm of a British pub. The cliff top position makes for stunning views. Chic white washed rooms mix traditional features with modern simplicity. Hearty gastro-pub styled food is served at the restaurant. A glorious spa. An excellent choice for a family holiday.
Frome
A chic and sophisticated restaurant with rooms in the quaint town of Frome. Contemporary rooms still feature exposed beams and stone yet new frescoes and freestanding baths now hold centre stage. A wonderfully renovated restaurant serves exemplary cuisine. Great for a weekend away.
Cheltenham (Southam)
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.
Devon (Exmoor National Park)
A very relaxed hotel nestled in the Devonshire countryside. A secluded escape with well-styled rooms and excellent, locally-sourced food. Guests can take many delightful walks to local beauty spots within Exmoor National Park. The perfect place for a quiet weekend away.
The Cotswolds
Historic coaching inn turned popular pub with rooms in Northleach. Imaginatively designed rooms are super comfortable — the best with feature wallpaper and in-room rolltop tub. The food is exceptional with dishes created from top notch seasonal, local produce. Children and dogs are welcome too!
Malmesbury (Easton Grey)
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.
Bath
Excellent value town centre hotel a stone's throw from the best that Bath has to offer. No restaurant, but in this city there's plenty of choice elsewhere. Great for families and those on a budget.
Devon
Classic seaside hotel with fabulous views over the North Devon coast. Tastefully refurbished rooms reflect the beach side location and the restaurant offers delicious food sourced from local ingredients. An romantic hotel for a seaside break and ideal for a family holiday too.
Christchurch
Style and exceptional service on the Dorset coast. The newly refurbished Christchurch Harbour Hotel offers smart bedrooms, excellent food, pampering spa and wonderful views. Perfect for an indulgent break by the sea.
The Cotswolds
16th century manor house in the centre of picturesque Moreton in Marsh. Classic yet contemporary rooms and Apple Cottage Suite with its own private garden and hot tub. Award winning fine dining. A chic yet relaxed spot and ideal base for exploring the Cotswolds.
Christchurch (Wick Lane)
A modern seaside hotel on the banks of the River Stour in Christchurch. Self-catering rooms and suites have fully equipped kitchens, modern furnishings, and balconies with views. Top of the range spa and therapies, terraces, good restaurant, and plenty of local activities. Very family oriented.
The Cotswolds
The Hare and Hounds is a traditional Cotswold country house hotel. The newly refurbished rooms and suites have an air of elegance and surround a delightful courtyard. The restaurant's creative menu is popular with locals and visitors alike. A smart but relaxed getaway amid stunning countryside.
Christchurch (Dorset)
This grand Georgian property provides a stylish stay. Inside it is a sympathetic blend of traditional architecture with modern furnishings. Rooms are decorated with velvet headboards, sumptuous armchairs and luxurious bathrooms. The gourmet restaurant has a seasonal delicious locally sourced menu.
Gloucestershire (Gloucestershire )
The only thing ordinary about the Lion Inn is the name. Each of the eight rooms are beautifully presented with exposed beams and stone walls next to soft hues and knitted throws. There is an outdoor patio restaurant with seasonal menu and bar with fine wines and real ales.
Dartmouth (Dartmouth)
This property, in Dartmouth's buzzing harbour has a luxury spa and an AA Rosette awarded restaurant. Chic rooms in pale palettes are bright with large windows overlooking the River Dart. There are also self-contained apartments. This property is perfectly located to explore Dartmoor.
The Cotswolds (Gloucestershire )
In the market town of Tetbury you will find The Close's grand grey stone façade. Dating back to 1535 and lovingly transformed into a stylish boutique hotel. Each of the 18 rooms is unique, ranging from pretty florals to dark country checks with roll-top baths and views. A full English is included.
The Cotswolds (Gloucestershire )
With views over the River Coln this 17th century coaching inn is a welcoming Cotswolds abode. Crackling fires in the winter and viridescent gardens in the summer: the menu is similarly seasonal (and locally sourced). Rooms have an instantly cosy feel with fourposters, gingham and floral upholstery.
Bath
A one of a kind thermal spa hotel in the heart of Bath. Each bedroom is elegantly decorated with period details and contemporary features. Luxurious bedding and modern appliances provide extra comfort. The hotel has a fine restaurant, chic bar and a pleasant afternoon tea lounge.
Chipping Campden (Gloucestershire)
Dating back to 1740 this commanding double fronted Georgian property sits in a quintessentially Cotswolds village. Original features including flagstone floors, sash windows and open fireplaces are complemented with soft patterned linens and comfy beds. Locally sourced food is top notch.
Gloucestershire (Minchinhampton)
Lovely 17th century inn in a beautiful rural spot overlooking 600 acres of National Trust common land. Comfortable rooms and an excellent seasonal menu complete the stay. Fuel yourself for long walks in the country and wind down with an evening by the fire.
Devon
Kentisbury Grange is a converted manor house, situated in pretty gardens on the edge of Exmouth National Park. Rooms are contemporary in style with crisp white linen, roll-top baths and soft hues. Plus there's an excellent restaurant. The ideal country escape.
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