Fancy a trip to the Cotswolds? This romantic, rural region of south-central England has long been a favourite for London locals to get away from it all. And if your budget is that you don’t in fact have one, we’ve found just the right countryside estates and farmhouses to fit the bill for your weekend away. These are the best luxury hotels in the Cotswolds for your bougie weekend escape.
1
Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, Wiltshire
As far as luxury country houses go, the Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa has swank factor for days. Set on 500 acres in a Palladian mansion dating from the 1720s, this sizeable mansion has Gatsby appeal for those looking to step back in time. And despite its historic roots, the hotel offers all the mod cons we’ve come to expect from hotels – including in-room wifi, flat screen televisions and that all important mini-bar to dip into late in the night.
2
Soho Farmhouse
No list of the Cotswolds’ most glamorous escapes would be complete without mention of Soho Farmhouse in Oxfordshire. Located in Chipping Norton, the members club is open to non-member guests, so long as you’re willing to pay a premium. But if money is no matter, Soho Farmhouse is the “in thing”, so to speak. You’ll be rubbing shoulders with celebs no doubt, given the exclusivity of the private members club. But if your travels are aesthetics driven, then look no further. No detail is overlooked in this quintessential Cotswolds escape.
3
The Double Red Duke, Oxfordshire
If you’re less about the swank factor and more about comfort and seclusion, check yourself in for a weekend at The Double Red Duke. This cosy rural retreat in the village of Clanfield exists inside a 16th-century stone country house, surrounded by lush gardens. With cosy log fires and delicious pub grub, this is one of our top picks for being a more lowkey, locals experience (but still luxurious!) in the Cotswolds.
4
The Manor House, Wiltshire
Tucked neatly away in the village of Castle Combe, The Manor House is a dreamy Cotswolds escape for absolute luxury. This is where you can rub shoulders with the swanky weekend crowd who leave London behind for some R+R in peace and serenity. Here at the Manor House you will also find some of the best options for fine dining (and drinking!) And if you luck out with the weather, be sure to take the time to explore the grounds. The manicured gardens are the perfect backdrop for this quintessentially British escape.
5
Thyme, Gloucestershire
What once began as a humble cooking school in Gloucestershire, has now become a full-fledged retreat style escape. So you’d better believe the food is *chef’s kiss* very good! Thyme feels like a village within a village, leaving you with that nostalgia of having visited before in another life. It is the kind of place you’ll need at least a few days to escape to, to feel the full effects (and by that we mean magic!)
6
Barnsley House, Gloucestershire
For green thumbs and garden enthusiasts, look no further than a visit to Barnsley House. This iconic country house has transformed its gardens into an absolute oasis – with vegetable gardens, statues, wildflower garden beds and trimmed hedges. The hotels’ gardens are considered some of the best in all of England, so be sure to stay a while in Spring or Summer.
7
Whatley Manor, Wiltshire
With a Michelin-starred chef and quiet calmness, Whatley Manor is the best choice on this list for a grown-ups getaway. There is perhaps no better place to relax and unwind, taking in the serenity of the gardens and grounds. As part of the highly talked about dining experience, guests are invited in to the kitchen. It is this experiential offering that sets Whatley Manor apart from other country estates nearby.
8
The Slaughters Manor House, Gloucestershire
Complete with a quintessentially British croquet lawn, tennis courts and Billiard room, The Slaughters Manor House is as swanky as it gets. With country chic interiors and luxurious finishings, this hotel truly feels like a treat for the senses. It is a particular favourite of couples, so prepare for all the romance your heart can take in this idyllic setting.
9
The Lygon Arms Hotel, Worcestershire
Dating back to the 14th century, the Lygon Arms Hotel has had an impressive list of visitors over the years. The likes of Elizabeth Taylor and Charles I have stayed here, with a long list of royal visitors having signed the guestbook over the years (hundreds of them!)
10
Ellenborough Park, Gloucestershire
As the only five-star hotel in Gloucestershire, you’d better believe we have savedt he best for last! Ellenborough Park is a 15th century manor located at the gateway to the Cotswolds, in Cheltenham. As one of the best kept manors, you can expect to feel as if you have stepped back in time as you embark on a journey through space and time. Think wooden fireplaces, original antiques, manicured gardens, afternoon tea offerings and ample grounds to take a walk in.
Over to you! What are your favourite memories from the Cotswolds?
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Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.
