The Lygon Arms

Once a popular pitstop for folk travelling by carriage en route between Worcester, Oxford and London, the earliest evidence of this original coaching inn dates back to 1377. This imposing institution of a hotel has had myriad owners, identities and countless illustrious actors, artists, writers and dignitaries passing through its Georgian doors, from Oliver Cromwell (who stayed on the eve of the Battle of Worcester) and Charles I (with a suite named after him) to Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor (during the height of their affair in 1963). A hotchpotch of different architectural periods and styles means the layout is somewhat maze-like providing plenty of snugs, nooks and hangouts, painted in dark atmospheric shades. Guests can choose between a variety of different dining outlets with menus creatd by renowned chef James Martin. Grill the stunning restaurant with vaulted ceiling, Tavern an authentic Cotswold stone drinking tavern for light bites, Courtyard for al fresco dining throughout the summer and the Lygon Lounges for daytime dining. Traditional Afternoon Tea in the elegant Russell Room is a quintessentially English must do. Rooms are comfortably contemporary with generous beds (some fourposters), antique furniture, paintings, tweed and plaid upholstery. For the full experience, don’t forget to book your spa treatments and enjoy The Lygon Spa facilities to relax and switch off.

 

Written by Laura Campbell

• Pet friendly
• Very dog friendly. The £25 per night fee includes bed, bowl and treat; there's a muddy paws station in the courtyard
• Swimming Pool
• Indoor pool
• Sit-out Terrace
• Massage
• Meeting Room
• Sauna/Steam
• Bar
• Family Suites
• Parking

• Spa
• Restaurant
• Garden
• Gym
• Child friendly
• Room service
• Concierge
• Wifi

• Designer Shopping
• Head to Cheltenham to browse an array of high end stores.
• Other Activities
• The Cotswold Farm Park makes for a fun day out with kids.

• Great walks
• Take long walks through the picturesque countryside.
• Museums
• Visit the Gordon Russell Design Museum in Broadway.

Why do people love staying in your hotel? Guests love staying in the Lygon Arms as it is a cosy hideaway with roots reaching into the 1300’s, excellent dining options, on-site spa with swimming pool, alongside country cool guest rooms. It’s location in the picture-perfect village of Broadway also makes a great location for exploring the wider Cotswolds - especially since the property is dog welcoming.

What is there to do in the area? Nearby attractions include museums and the Broadway Tower which has views out across Vale and Stow-on-the-Wold & Chipping Norton — the two highest towns in the Cotswolds. Guests can also visit nearby towns of Cheltenham, Chipping Campden, Tetbury and Cirencester. Bicester Village, home to more than 160 brands, is a short drive away for those after retail therapy.

What kind of breakfast do you offer? Breakfast at The Lygon Arms is served daily in Grill and is a continental buffet, alongside a hot food menu including favourites of French toast and eggs Benedict.

Do you offer other meals? And can you recommend good places to eat out locally? The Lygon Arms has two restaurants: Grill and Tavern. All menus are curated by renowned chef James Martin. The highest-quality produce is at the heart of all dishes and has stemmed from friendly and sustainable relationships with Cotswolds suppliers, farmers and artisans to produce a varied all day menus. Al fresco dining is available in Courtyard throughout the summer and The Lygon Lounges provide an all-day light lunch and refreshments. Afternoon Tea is served daily in the elegance of the Russell Room. Other local restaurants include the Broadway Deli, Market Pantry, and Russell’s.

Which are your most popular room types, and why? The impressive King Charles I Suite, where King Charles I and his supporters would assemble before battle during the English Civil War in 1649, is a popular choice. The King’s coat of arms stands regally over one of its fireplaces today. Visitors will also notice that the face of the royal lion is missing, presumably hacked off by Parliamentarians. The spacious Courtyard Suites are also popular. The eight open plan suites provide airy, spacious, luxurious rooms are located on the ground floor overlooking individual landscaped terraced gardens and courtyard with the majestic chestnut tree as the centrepiece. The suites range from 38m2 to 48m2 and open out onto a large terrace.

What facilities do you have for children and can you fit extra beds in your rooms ? Children can stay in selected bedrooms at the Lygon Arms. There is a dedicated seasonal children's menu and children's afternoon tea. A children’s programme is available throughout August and special kids stay and eat free packages during the school holidays. . Children can also use the full size swimming pool during set hours.

What message would you like to give Hotel Guru readers? Formerly a coaching inn dating back to Medieval times, the Lygon Arms is a must-stay for guests looking for a luxury hotel with character, history and style. Just two hours from London, the hotel is situated on the High Street in the heart of Broadway, one of England’s most beautiful villages. The hotel offers authentic charm and a country cool Cotswolds escape.