HOTELS
The best hotels in the Cotswolds
There is nothing like waking up on a brisk winters morning than in the cosy embrace of a charming Cotswold hotel. From 850 acre estates to traditional buildings in historic villages. We’ve rounded up our favourite hotels, those countryside escapes you keep going back to, a new home away from home.
BY ARCHIE CAWTHRA
17 January 2024
1/14
Thyme at Southrop Manor
Thyme is a family story where a passion for the land, food and entertaining merges with a love of nature, beauty and conservation. All the botanically inspired bedrooms are dispersed across houses and cottages, forming a peaceful hamlet environment with gravel pathways to lead you through the gardens. No two rooms are the same, with colours inspired by their botanical names and graced with carefully sourced antique pieces.
Thyme, Southrop Manor Estate, Gloucestershire
www.thyme.co.uk
2/14
Bull, Burford
Nestled in the heart of The Cotswolds, Bull is an intimate 18-bedroom hotel retreat with four restaurants, two bars, and a captivating collection of artworks and experiences.
When the Bull opened in 1536, it was a coaching inn, a place for tired horses to recover and prepare themselves for the next long ride. The new Bull aspires to offer the same service to anyone on a journey who might need a moment to catch their breath. They’re not a hotel with white tablecloths and fancy waiters but rather an urban refuge designed to feel like home.
105 High St, Burford OX18 4RG
www.bullburford.com
3/14
Estelle Manor, Eynsham
Estelle Manor is a country club and hotel nestled in Oxfordshire, perched on the Cotswolds’ doorstep. A hosted home and countryside companion to private members’ club Maison Estelle in Mayfair, London. A new school club with old school values of personalised service and discretion. An unstuffy and fun community, that brings people together who have plenty to say and nothing to prove.
With 108 hotel rooms, four restaurants to dine in, a workspace, a gym with a class studio and padel tennis courts, a kids’ club for the little ones and club spaces for members to connect and relax.
Estelle Manor, Eynsham, North Leigh, Park OX29 6PN
www.estellemanor.com
4/14
Double Red Duke, Clanfield
An immaculately restored old inn with generous bedrooms, great food, ale and wine. Locals love it as much as those who make it a destination.
The Double Red Duke seamlessly marries historic allure with contemporary luxury, inviting guests into a world where every detail is thoughtfully curated for their comfort. The hotel's rich history, housed within a meticulously restored 17th-century building, sets the stage for a unique stay. Each room tells a story of the past, featuring tasteful décor that pays homage to the region's heritage while offering modern amenities for the discerning traveler.
Bourton Rd, Clanfield, Bampton OX18 2RB
www.countrycreatures.com/double-red-duke
5/14
Lakes by Yoo, Lechlade
Embark on an unparalleled retreat at The Lakes by Yoo, a destination that transcends the ordinary and invites guests to experience luxury on a new level. Situated amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Cotswolds, this exclusive lakeside haven offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and contemporary opulence, making it the quintessential choice for a memorable stay.
Indulgence begins with the accommodation itself – a collection of architecturally stunning lakeside residences designed by some of the world's leading architects. Each residence at The Lakes by Yoo is a masterpiece, featuring sleek lines, expansive windows, and private terraces that seamlessly integrate with the picturesque surroundings. Whether you choose a cozy cottage or a spacious modern villa, your stay promises a sanctuary of comfort and style.
High Street, Lechlade GL7 3DT
www.thelakesbyyoo.com
6/14
Cowley Manor Experimental, Cowley
Cowley Manor is a Grade II listed property and is home to 31 bedrooms complemented by a spa, restaurant, cocktail lounge, library, mudroom and plentiful living rooms. Designer Dorothée Meilichzon has taken inspiration from each chapter of Cowley Manor’s book, weaving together classical inspiration with contemporary elements across each of the estate’s 31 bedrooms. A sort of joyeux bordel, a happy mess. Baldaquin beds at the heart of each grand bedroom are complemented by blurred maple and Verdigris.
The new restaurant & cocktail bar at Cowley Manor Experimental is a place to celebrate a milestone, or simply enjoy a meal to remember. Celebrated British chef Jackson Boxer has crafted a menu that reflects the local area, with a nod to French cuisine. Local produce will be at the forefront, highlighting some of Gloucestershire’s finest offerings. A place to return to again and again, for dinner, lunch and cocktails in between.
Cowley, Cheltenham GL53 9NL
www.cowleymanorexperimental.com
7/14
Lygon Arms, Broadway
Located in the quintessentially English village that is Broadway in the heart of The Cotswolds, The Lygon Arms is the perfect spot to switch off and relax (with or without your pampered pooch!). Steeped in over 600 years of fascinating history, our Cotswolds hotel has been host to royalty as well as notable rebellious figures throughout the centuries.
Staying true to its roots, the hotel's traditional honeyed walls promise a warm welcome. Expect roaring log fires in the cosy lounges, fantastic feasts from the restaurant, a relaxing spa and glorious guest rooms to tuck up in, including the famous Charles I suite.
High St, Broadway WR12 7DU
www.lygonarmshotel.co.uk
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8/14
Barnsley House, Barnsley
Located in the charming Cotswold village of Barnsley, you'll find Barnsley House just four miles from Cirencester and a nine minute drive from Kemble station, with direct links to London Paddington.
Nestled in gardens created by renowned garden designer, Rosemary Verey, enjoy locally-grown food featuring ingredients picked directly from the grounds. Thoughtfully designed rooms and suites blend contemporary comfort with original features and views of the gardens.
Turn your weekend escape into a memorable retreat with your own private movie screening at their cinema, a restorative treatment at their spa and dinner at the village pub, The Boot.
Barnsley, Cirencester GL7 5EE
www.barnsleyhouse.com
9/14
The Wild Rabbit, Kingham
Nestled in the picturesque village of Kingham, The Wild Rabbit offers a charming and idyllic retreat that seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern luxury. This boutique inn is a haven for those seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of the Cotswolds.
The Wild Rabbit captivates guests with its timeless Cotswold stone exterior and enchanting interiors that showcase a perfect harmony of traditional elegance and contemporary comfort. Each room is a sanctuary of tranquility, adorned with tasteful furnishings, plush linens, and thoughtful touches that create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Renowned for its commitment to sustainability and locally sourced produce, The Wild Rabbit's restaurant boasts a farm-to-table dining experience. Guests can savor seasonal dishes crafted with fresh ingredients from the surrounding countryside, accompanied by a carefully curated selection of wines and spirits.
Church St, Kingham, Chipping Norton OX7 6YA
www.thewildrabbit.co.uk
10/14
The Fish Hotel, Broadway
Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, The Fish Hotel in Broadway beckons with its unique blend of rustic charm and contemporary allure, offering an unforgettable escape for those seeking a quintessentially English retreat.
Surrounded by lush countryside, The Fish Hotel boasts individually designed rooms that exude a warm and welcoming ambiance. Each accommodation is a sanctuary of comfort, featuring stylish decor, modern amenities, and picturesque views that capture the essence of the Cotswolds.
Dining at The Fish is a culinary journey that celebrates the region's finest produce. The restaurant showcases a diverse menu that highlights locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a delightful farm-to-table experience. Guests can indulge in delicious meals while surrounded by the scenic beauty of the hotel's surroundings.
Farncombe House, Campden Ln, Farncombe, Broadway WR12 7LH
www.thefishhotel.co.uk
11/14
The Painswick, Painswick
Nestled atop the picturesque Cotswold hills, The Painswick stands as a beacon of timeless elegance and tranquility, inviting discerning travelers to experience the epitome of English charm. This historic boutique hotel, surrounded by the enchanting beauty of the Cotswolds, offers a compelling blend of luxury and intimacy that makes it a must-stay destination.
The Painswick is a quintessential Cotswold gem, with honey-hued stone walls and charming architecture that seamlessly blends into the scenic landscape. Each room exudes warmth, adorned with antique furnishings and bespoke decor that pay homage to the region's rich heritage.
The Painswick takes pride in its gastronomic offerings, featuring a restaurant renowned for its locally sourced, seasonal menu. Guests are treated to an exquisite dining experience that showcases the finest flavors of the region, creating a culinary journey that complements the surroundings.
Kemps Ln, Painswick, Stroud GL6 6YB
www.thepainswick.co.uk
12/14
Wild Thyme & Honey, Ampney Crucis
Wild Thyme & Honey in Ampney Crucis beckons those seeking a retreat into serene elegance. This boutique haven offers an enchanting escape, blending rustic charm with contemporary comfort, making it the ideal destination for a truly rejuvenating stay.
Surrounded by the picturesque landscapes of the Cotswolds, Wild Thyme & Honey immerses guests in the quintessential charm of rural England. The village of Ampney Crucis provides a tranquil backdrop, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Each room at Wild Thyme & Honey is a sanctuary of comfort and style. Thoughtfully designed with a blend of modern amenities and classic elegance, the accommodations provide a cozy haven for relaxation, ensuring a restful stay.
Ampney Crucis, Cirencester GL7 5RS
www.wildthymeandhoney.co.uk
13/14
No.131, Cheltenham
Located in the heart of Cheltenham, No. 131 invites discerning travelers to experience a unique blend of sophistication and contemporary chic. This boutique hotel promises a stay defined by elegant interiors, culinary excellence, and a prime location in one of England's most stylish and cultural towns.
No. 131 boasts a captivating blend of period charm and modern design. The interiors showcase stylish furnishings, chic decor, and a subtle nod to the building's historic roots, creating an atmosphere that seamlessly blends luxury with character.
131 Promenade, Cheltenham GL50 1NW
www.no131.com
14/14
ARC, Painswick
Nestled amidst the serene beauty of Painswick, ARC invites discerning travelers to experience a haven of tranquility where modern luxury meets the timeless charm of the Cotswolds. This boutique retreat beckons with a promise of refined elegance, bespoke hospitality, and a captivating escape into the heart of England's picturesque countryside.
Each room at ARC is a sanctuary of modern comfort and classic style. Impeccably designed, the accommodations feature a harmonious blend of contemporary amenities and Cotswold-inspired decor, ensuring a luxurious and restful stay.
Tibbiwell Ln, Painswick, Stroud GL6 6XX
www.arc.club