These bucolic sanctuaries have refurbished and returned to their youthful glory while finding a way to marry with our very modern expectations of rural respite.
We might not be able to claim year-round sun, and over-water properties are certainly thin on the ground, but when it comes to country house hotels, nowhere on the planet can match the calibre of the biscuit-hued boltholes that pepper the British countryside. Still a tonic to urban life, these grand estates were once the private homes of illustrious families but now proudly open their doors to a much more varied guest list.
Whether you’re on the hunt for a Bridgerton-inspired break or keen to flit from fireside to poolside without hassle, we’ve picked out the cream of the crop when it comes to country houses in the UK. Here, you’ll find charm by the engraved silver bucket and atmosphere in abundance.
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The Newt, Somerset
Driving away from The Newt feels like you’ve just been let in on a very special secret. The experience is truly captivating – from the next-level service to the hotel’s sheer scale. Even to call it a hotel is misleading; the sprawling estate consists of acres of gardens, woodland, farmland, and cyder orchards with an impressive Georgian manor at its core. In 2021, The Newt added Farmyard, featuring 17 additional bedrooms plus a restaurant, bar, and a second pool that is just a buggy ride away.
One of the many joys here is the surprise at every turn. As we make our way along the stone path, we glimpse Hadspen House ahead, its burnt honeyed stone glinting in the sunshine. To the right is the spa, where faint wafts of lavender from the herbal medieval garden fill the air, and to the left, the Stable Yard, where our room (one of 23 in this part of the estate) awaits. The room is spacious and luxurious with white linens and fur throws, vaulted beamed ceilings, and a deep bathtub at the foot of a towering four-poster bed. Back in the main house, several cozy spaces await, including the library featuring green paneled walls, oil paintings, and comfy jewel-toned chairs – a perfect spot to enjoy complimentary tea and homemade scones.
Food here is unsurprisingly seasonal and local, incorporating produce from The Newt’s own kitchen gardens and greenhouses. There are three restaurants: the glass-fronted Garden Cafe overlooking the gardens below, Farmyard Kitchen serving a laidback menu with seasonal veggies and locally-made cheeses, and the Botanical Rooms in the main house, where guests can enjoy a continental breakfast featuring fresh croissants and seasonal fruits alongside a three-course lunch and supper menu highlighting seasonal ingredients in beautifully presented dishes.
There is an abundance of activities; even exploring The Newt’s gardens could take an entire day. Don’t miss a complimentary Garden Tour for hotel guests. Other attractions include the Cyder Press, Beezantium where you learn about bees, and the Story of Gardening exhibition. The most impressive might be the Roman Villa Experience— a complete reconstruction of a Romano-British villa inspired by one found on the estate dating back to 351AD, along with an interactive visitor center. The Newt is the ultimate countryside escape, and you will definitely leave wondering how soon you can return. Sarah Allard
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Babington House, Somerset
Located in the serene Somerset countryside, just six miles from the artistic town of Frome, Babington House is a Georgian manor surrounded by charming gardens and perfectly manicured lawns. As Soho House’s original country spot, it provides urban dwellers an escape from city life, all without sacrificing the luxurious amenities of London.
Relaxation is paramount here, as evident from the moment you step foot onto the cobbled path leading to the house. The arched entrance is adorned with climbing white roses, and the floral scent intermingles with the warm aromas of wood burners, creating an inviting atmosphere filled with serene sounds from birds and quiet chatter of guests indoors.
The decor exemplifies the Soho House aesthetic—lavish, comfortable, and filled with vintage finds that resonate with modern touches. Guests have the option to stay in one of the 10 rooms in the main house, featuring four-poster beds and freestanding baths, or select one of the beautiful coach house or walled garden bedrooms in the grounds.
Dinner is enjoyed in the Orangery, which features a British menu with locally-sourced ingredients, from spaghetti with nettle sauce to spring vegetable risotto and rotisserie Castlemead chicken. During the summer, lounge on oversized green and white striped sun loungers with one of the House’s famous Picantes before taking a dip in the heated outdoor pool. Winter brings an opportunity to explore the grounds in wellies, followed by complimentary afternoon tea served in the deli bar and cinematic experiences in the 45-seat cinema, which hosts daily free screenings. The on-site Cowshed spa offers bespoke treatments, and guests can also engage in various leisure activities including tennis and enjoying a sauna, steam room, gym sessions, and a kids’ club experience. Sarah Allard
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Leonardslee House, West Sussex
This historic Grade II-listed Italianate mansion, set within a sprawling 240-acre estate in Horsham, was planted by renowned Victorian botanical collector Edmund Loder. Families can explore seven interlaced lakes while taking in monumental bronze sculptures by Anton Smit or delight in observing the free-roaming wallaby colony. In the evening, the house transforms into a culinary hotspot thanks to the Michelin-starred Restaurant Interlude, where Chef Jean Delport serves exquisite multi-course meals based on a ‘hunter-gatherer’ philosophy.
Exceptional meals feature a blend of nostalgic South African dishes brought to life through ingredients grown in Leonardslee’s gardens combined with locally sourced farm produce. Diners indulge in dazzling plates such as bracken fiddleheads with pine and burnt butter, alongside Sussex chocolate with silver birch sap and sweet potato. The restaurant is complemented by a curated selection of wines from Leonardslee’s sister property, Benguela Cove, both owned by wine connoisseur Penny Streeter.
When it’s time to rest, guests can retreat to one of ten new bedrooms, each designed to evoke lady-of-the-manor splendor with floral wallpapers, blush pinks, and duck egg blues adorned with antiques and Calacatta marble bathrooms, including luxurious bathtubs infused with rose salts. Leonardslee offers a decadent countryside experience, providing yet another compelling reason to journey to West Sussex. Ianthe Butt
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The Grove of Narberth, Pembrokeshire
This country house hotel was lovingly restored by the dedicated owners, Neil and Zoë Kedward, after they fell in love with the once-derelict building. This Grade II listed, 18th-century manor juxtaposes modern luxury with traditional country charm. Featuring two restaurants—the casual Artisan Rooms and the intimate, candle-lit Fernery—the property also includes four cottages and a 15th-century longhouse originally built for medieval farmers.
The luxurious interiors blend regal aesthetics with community artistry, showcasing handmade furniture, local pottery, vintage Welsh lace, and works by local artists. Guests can unwind in the gardens with views of the famous Pembrokeshire greenery and the distant Preseli mountains.
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Cliveden House, Berkshire
Cliveden House is famous not only for its stunning architecture but also for its pivotal role in the historic Profumo affair. Originally built in 1666 by the Duke of Buckingham, this Grade I-listed manor has been operating as a hotel since 1984. The intricate exteriors and grand wood-clad lounges enchant visitors while thoughtful touches like framed family photos add to the charm. Each room is adorned with antiques and elegant decor, maintaining an air of sophisticated luxury throughout.
Guests can find respite in the modern spa, featuring stone passageways leading to the indoor pool, outdoor pool, and hot tubs that overlook the estate’s vast gardens. Spanning 376 acres along the Thames, guests can enjoy a variety of activities from leisurely boat trips to exploring the manicured grounds. Cliveden House truly embodies the combination of history, luxury, and natural beauty.
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Lime Wood, New Forest
Showcasing a blend of late 18th-century charm and contemporary style, Lime Wood’s alluring exterior leads to chic interiors, reflecting the modern luxury found throughout the hotel. The property features a robust hospitality component, including wood fires, patterned wallpaper, and plush furnishings, making it a cosmopolitan retreat in the heart of nature.
The Herb House Spa includes four inviting pools, while the elegant Hartnett, Holder & Co restaurant serves chef-driven dishes with local flair, including various seasonal options. Each evening, guests can unwind in their rooms, featuring opulent claw-foot tubs equipped with premium bath products, offering the ideal finale to a relaxing day in the stunning New Forest.
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The Grove, Hertfordshire
Rich in history, The Grove is just 18 minutes from London Euston yet feels worlds apart from the city’s hustle and bustle. Once a home for the Earls of Clarendon, this Georgian manor has a fascinating past dating back to 3000 BC. The hotel blends historical significance with modern amenities, offering outdoor activities such as clay pigeon shooting and archery, all set amid luxurious surroundings.
The estate boasts a vibrant atmosphere with velvet-lined corridors and stunning floral arrangements. Guests can indulge in afternoon tea while gazing at the beautifully landscaped gardens or retreat to the modern Sequoia Spa for a leisurely day of pampering. The dining experiences cater to diverse palates, with The Glasshouse providing a buffet-style feast infused with a welcoming orangery vibe.
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Barnsley House, Cotswolds
Setting itself apart amid the stunning Cotswolds, the iconic Barnsley House, a 1697 stone manor, is renowned for its beautiful gardens and intimate ambiance. Previously the home of celebrated gardener Rosemary Verey, the exquisitely maintained grounds still honor her creative vision. The boutique hotel is thus a cherished escape for both celebrities and urban dwellers seeking tranquility.
With a warm and inviting atmosphere, crackling fireplaces, and cozy lounges, Barnsley House curates a homely feel. The hotel features a spa focused on experience rather than excess, offering guests serene hydrotherapy opportunities surrounded by lush landscapes. Rooms vary from light-filled manor spaces to more contemporary garden-side suites, ensuring every guest finds their perfect retreat.
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Cromlix Hotel, Kinbuck
Located in the picturesque Scottish countryside, Cromlix stands out not only for its celebrity ownership but also for its enchanting and homely atmosphere. The property skillfully balances original features and modern luxury. It includes a billiards room, a whiskey room, and a library among other unique amenities.
Luxurious rooms are outfitted with plush carpets, heavy curtains, and premium bathroom essentials, ensuring a sumptuous stay. The attention to detail and commitment to preserving the attractive features of the country house create a unique charm enhanced by the rich history surrounding it.
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Heckfield Place, Hampshire
Heckfield Place showcases stunning Georgian architecture with magnificent views of the expansive parkland and lake framed by expert design elements. Formerly the home of a significant 19th-century politician, this historical estate has been transformed into an inviting destination focusing on sustainability and comfort.
The interior boasts grand staircases and classic flagstone flooring, creating a welcoming atmosphere enriched by daily complimentary tea and cake offerings. Signature rooms feature generous spaces with lovely views, while the restaurant, Marle, offers delightful seasonal menus curated by a talented chef, ensuring every meal is a memorable experience.
