England is known for its picturesque countryside, with rolling hills, quaint villages and romantic country house hotels. Think of roaring log fires, antique furniture, free-standing baths and four-poster beds. These are just some of the luxuries you can expect from these romantic retreats. Looking for an elegant, relaxing rural escape? We’ve rounded up some of the best country house hotels in England for your consideration.
7 of the Best Country House Hotels in England
1. Chewton Glen, Hampshire
Chewton Glen is a luxury country house hotel and spa. It is located on the edge of the New Forest National Park in southern England. The bedrooms represent the ultimate in luxury and comfort with antique furnishings and sumptuous fabrics. Up the romance factor by staying in one of the spectacular treehouses, which feel like a lovely little sanctuary. There are two restaurants, there is a world-class spa, a cookery school and a golf course, tennis courts and gym. There’s also archery, buggy riding and duck herding as well as a terrific kids’ club. Therefore, this is the perfect country house hotel for family-fun in the New Forest.
2. Beaverbrook, Surrey
The Grade-II-listed Beaverbrook House has a beguiling history and plenty of stories to tell. Set in 400 acres of Surrey countryside, Beaverbrook has a superb restaurant, a private cinema and a treehouse with slides, which is perfect for the little ones. The cosy and comfortable rooms have enormous four-poster beds and elegant roll-top baths. Beaverbrook is bursting with romance and style and tributes to its glamorous past. Stroll around the magical walled garden, before relaxing in the Garden House with a drink. After that, indulge in a spa treatment or two, and sip classic cocktails in Sir Frank’s Bar. Dining well is easy as there are three restaurants on-site, therefore you won’t go hungry!
3. Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Oxfordshire
Raymond Blanc’s country house hotel has designer rooms inspired by his travels and is a temple to haute cuisine. It’s the only country house hotel in Britain to have held two Michelin stars for more than three decades, so make sure you bring your appetite when you come. Rooms are individually decorated and are imaginative and romantic. Similarly, the gardens are also very romantic and are a wonderful place to stroll hand in hand. The wine cellar has around 600 carefully selected wines from around the world and the sommeliers will pair each dish with a perfectly matching wine. One of the best ways to enjoy the food here is with a tasting menu as the dishes celebrate some 90 different herbs and vegetables from the two-acre kitchen garden. This really is one of the top gourmet destinations in England.
4. The Newt in Somerset, Somerset
The Newt in Somerset is quintessentially English in style and character with its sumptuous, individually designed rooms. Relax in the comfortable Drawing Room and curl up by the fire with a good book. Take a leisurely stroll around the parkland, woods, orchards and gardens. If all that relaxing gets a bit too much, get active in the spa. Facilities include a sauna, salt steam room, pool, heated outdoor hydrotherapy pool and gym. There are some wonderful, unique things to do here like the History of Gardening Museum and the Cyder Press. You can even take part in cider tastings with the hotel’s Cyder Maker and Cellar Master. There are two terrific restaurants from which to choose, the glass-walled Garden Café overlooks the walled Parabola and the Botanical Rooms which has a wonderful open kitchen. Most of the ingredients on the menu come from Newt’s kitchen gardens and greenhouses.
5. Cliveden House, Berkshire
If you want to feel like an extra in Downtown Abbey, then stay in this National Trust estate. Everyone from Chaplin to Churchill has stayed here. Meghan Markle stayed here the night before she wed Prince Harry. Now you can roam around like the Lord or Lady of the manor. There’s plenty to do here to but it all revolves around relaxing. You can have a pampering session in the serene spa for instance before sipping elegant cocktails in the Library bar. Afterwards, devour delicious food in the two restaurants. You can also explore and admire the acres and acres of blooming marvellous manicured gardens. Rooms are spacious with enormous marble baths and large cocooning beds ensure deep, peaceful slumber.
6. Broadoaks Country House, Cumbria
Located in the breathtaking Lake District, Broadoaks Country House in Windermere is timeless and traditional. Set in seven acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and majestic woodland, the hotel is incredibly romantic. It’s like something out of a fairytale with its crackling fires and splendid views. This Victorian Lakeland residency is full of history but has all the modern amenities for a relaxing stay. Dining at Broadoaks is a mouth-watering experience. This starts with the bountiful breakfast, continues with the lavish afternoon tea and lasts through to the fine dining dinner. Afterwards, enjoy a classic nightcap to round out a perfect day of good eating and drinking.
7. Barnsley House, Gloucestershire
For a classic country getaway, Barnsley House with its fairytale gardens, blissful spa and cosy pub ticks all the boxes. Located in the picture-perfect Cotswold village of Cirencester, Barnsley House is a timeless, classical and elegant rural retreat. It has contemporary bedrooms, casual furnishings and cosy log fires. The Potager restaurant serves up dishes made with local, seasonal ingredients, many of which come from the extensive gardens. It’s a real taste of the region. When the weather is fine, grab a blanket and find a secluded spot amongst the flowers. Attentive staff will bring you a sparkling afternoon tea to enjoy in the glorious garden.
