Living in a city is stressful. If you’re feeling the strain of life in the concrete jungle, this guide is designed as inspiration for affluent travellers planning luxury weekend escapes from London, with insider knowledge on where to switch smog and fumes for the beautiful British countryside.
And it doesn’t get more beautiful and British than the Cotswolds in the South of England. Spanning parts of five counties in the UK — notably Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Worcestershire and Warwickshire — the Cotswolds is England’s green and pleasant land, full of rolling hills, medieval villages, and cosy country pubs.
The best hotels here stand out for blending historic character with a modern wellness offering, often in a grand estate setting. The best luxury hotels in the Cotswolds are celebrated for high-end facilities, stunning country estates and the way each luxury hotel balances heritage with contemporary comfort.
Escape the city and treat yourself to a revitalising rural retreat at one of these wonderful Cotswolds hotels..
Oak House No1
With several awards and consistent recognition for being one of the Cotswolds’ best boutique hotels, the 5-star Oak House No.1 sits right in the heart of the picturesque town of Tetbury in Gloucestershire.
A regular home away from home for celebrities, and even royalty, Oak House No.1 offers a discreet stay in unique and opulent surroundings. Glamour meets classic British luxury at this charming Cotswold hotel.
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East House
This idyllic 5-star bed and breakfast country retreat in Broadway, Worcestershire dates from 1759. A beautiful stone building, East House is nestled within its own gorgeous grounds, surrounded by countryside, with magnificent views of the surrounding landscape.
Just a five-minute walk to the restaurants, country pubs, and tea rooms for which Broadway is renowned, East House makes the perfect country escape and an ideal base for exploring the village.
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The Old Swan & Minster Mill
The Old Swan & Minster Mill is a quintessentially English inn and adjoining mill with charming accommodation, located just 15 miles outside Oxford, nestled within 65 acres of idyllic grounds and countryside. With plenty of rural charm, combined with a modern design and luxurious amenities, The Old Swan & Minster Mill is a true British gem.
It also just opened a brand new spa, featuring a heated indoor plunge pool, poolside rock sauna, aroma steam room, ice fountain, and tropical rainforest showers right in the heart of the hotel’s stunning grounds. This makes it especially appealing in summer and in good weather, when guests can enjoy more of the estate outside.
See more images and get the best deals for Old Swan & Minster Mill here.
Cranbourne House
A stylish and self-contained bed and breakfast located in the “Venice of the Cotswolds” (Bourton-on-the-Water), Cranbourne House is a charming stone house discreetly positioned a few minutes from the village centre.
Six extremely comfortable rooms feature antique French king-size beds, high-quality mattresses, and en-suite bathrooms. Cranbourne House is intimate and has a real homely atmosphere, perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway with a touch of luxury.
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Abbots Grange
Located in the lea of Broadway hill, delightfully tucked within eight acres of grounds and beautiful gardens, Abbots Grange is one of Britain’s best preserved medieval manor house properties.
Dating from roughly 1320, Abbots Grange has its own very distinctive character and later served as a monastery and artists' colony, while its setting provides guests with plenty of peace and tranquillity. Sit with a warm drink and be mesmerised by the gorgeous open log fire for a relaxing evening.
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The Northey Arms Hotel
Following a recent renovation, The Northey Arms has been one of Bath’s most popular dining venues, while its ten well-appointed rooms continue to impress guests staying at this 5-star Cotswolds hotel.
Despite its quaint setting and beautiful furnishings, The Northey Arms’ highlight is its Michelin-starred restaurant, where head chef Chris Alderson goes to great lengths to source fresh, seasonal and local produce to create superb food and a memorable dinner experience, while also making it a good choice for lunch for non-resident diners.
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Lucknam Park Hotel, Chippenham
Secluded within 500 acres of stunning English countryside and surrounded by parkland, Lucknam Park Hotel is one of the England’s finest country houses and an ideal base for a short drive into Bath. The 5-star property is an ideal setting for spa breaks, weddings or just a weekend away.
The hotel has its own Equestrian Centre and Cookery School, 42 individually styled rooms and suites, and offers fine dining at The Brasserie and Michelin-starred Park restaurant, which has held its star for 20 years. Overall, Lucknam Park is an elegant and distinguished hotel, with some of the best British fare around, while the spa includes a gym and treatments using 111Skin products.
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Mill Hay House
Nestled between the quaint Cotswold towns of Broadway and Snowshill village, Mill Hay is an enchanting 5-star bed and breakfast with luxurious rooms, a stunning garden, and authentic atmosphere.
Brimming English elegance and boat-loads of character, this charming country hideaway offers plenty of opportunities to relax and unwind, while a delicious gourmet breakfast will make you feel at home and tended to.
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Burford House
A much renowned boutique hotel, Burford House is a charming Cotswold stone house offering flawless service, delightfully designed rooms, and sumptuous cuisine.
Six spacious, individually-designed rooms ooze charm and boast huge en-suites. Situated right on Burford High Street, in this historic market town within a Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Burford House is a relaxing place to spend an afternoon or a couple of days, with the local shops and restaurants just a short walk away.
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The New Inn Coln St Aldwyns
The New Inn is an idyllic country pub and inn, renowned for its hearty English fare, gorgeous rooms, and traditional bar – a favourite with the locals, as well as an ideal base for exploring the surrounding countryside on weekend escapes.
Dating back to the 16th century, the historic inn has 15 rooms, each individually decorated, offering an abundance of charm, character, and enduring Cotswold style.
See more images and get the best deals for The New Inn Coln St Aldwyns here.
