Top 5 Country House Hotels in Britain: Rural Luxury from Sussex to Scotland

Glamorous country house hotels. Unique history. Opulent dining rooms and impeccable service. Just some of the things which for me create the perfect country house hotel. I love all different type of hotels, in different locations and from different eras – but mostly a country house hotel. I love staying in rooms which were once graced with royalty, or relaxing in roll top baths big enough to swim in and eventually curling up beside a roaring fireplace during winter over a glass of wine. If you love these type of hotels just as much as I do then read on, as I present you with my personal selection of the top 5 country house hotels in Britain – spanning from Sussex all the way to Scotland.

1. Hartwell House Hotel & Spa – Buckinghamshire

First up in my top 5 country house hotels is a magnificent place called Hartwell House Hotel & Spa in Buckinghamshire. Just one hour from London, tucked away within a lush green estate awaits a magnificent country mansion-house hotel. Located in the Vale of Aylesbury, the hotel is one of Buckinghamshire’s most celebrated and luxurious country houses. Built in the 17th century, the building is full of Georgian and Jacobean charm. A total of forty-six rooms, all of which offer so much history. We even slept in the Duchesse d’angouleme’s room who was the eldest child of King Louis XVI of France and the one and only, Marie Antoinette!! Hartwell House Hotel is one of the most unique hotels I’ve ever stayed in and with more history then you could ever imagine in one place – plus the grounds are absolutely stunning. Read all about my stay at Hartwell House Hotel & Spa. 

2. Palé Hall Hotel – Wales

A hotel I recently spent some time at and loved it so much I’m returning back to in August is Palé Hall Hotel in Wales. Palé Hall offers just about everything I want from a hotel. History, charm, sophistication and grandeur – plus some rather fantastic food. Wood panelling, a grand staircase, cosy seating, a red ceiling to die for and one of the most impressive gilded ceilings I’ve seen in a UK hotel. From the moment you arrive in the hotel, your bags are whisked off to your room and a complimentary glass of bubbles is placed in your hand – the hotel has a real sense of place to it. The hotel was also recently refurbished back to its former glory and dates back to the Victoria era. It’s a gorgeous hotel which I can’t wait to return too. Read my full review of Palé Hall Hotel.

3. Isle of Eriska Hotel, Spa & Golf – Scotland

If there was a country house hotel worthy of winning an award for beauty – then it would be the Isle of Eriska Hotel in Scotland. The hotel is accessible by a bridge which transports you to a private island where the hotel dominates. The island dates back to the 10th century, but it wasn’t until 1973 when it really came into its own after being purchased by the Buchanan-Smiths. This is still a family owned hotel and you can feel that throughout. You’re not just a guest when staying here in Scotland, but considered one of the family. It’s an incredible feeling. You can expect 350 acres of natural beauty which looks out over Loch Crera and offers wildlife in abundance. On a warm sunny day you can enjoy endless walks and in the winter you can step inside and enjoy a fabulous afternoon tea. The hotel is also home to a Michelin starred restaurant and if you’re lucky you may spot a few otters relaxing on the beach. Read my full review and find out why I fell in love with this Scottish country house retreat.

4. Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa – West Sussex

It’s been ten years since I last visited Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa in West Sussex and I was so glad to have finally returned a few weeks back. With such fond memories I didn’t know what to expect, but thankfully the hotel has been loved and cared for so much that it hasn’t aged a day. In fact it looks just as good as I remember it. This medieval-style country house is most interesting because it’s actually not as old as it looks. The hotel was only built-in 1927 in the Medieval style and went on to become a playground for the high society. The grounds are full of beautiful thatched houses, a 13th century chapel and even a spa which has been so well designed to fit in with the property. The unique selling point of this hotel for me is that you feel as though you’re in the middle of the countryside, yet a beautiful coastline awaits just a short walk away. If you fancy a trip to West Sussex then read all about my stay at Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa.

5. Ston Easton Park Hotel – Somerset

Last, but certainly not least in my round-up is Ston Easton Park in Somerset. A luxurious country hose hotel nestled away on the outskirts of Bath. The original house reportedly dates all the way back to Tudor times, with the building as it is today erected around 1739 and the east and west wings added towards the end of the 18th century. The Hippisley family were the first to make this grand house their home back in 1544 but it was turned in to a hotel into 1982 when Mr and Mrs Smedley opened the house as a hotel to the public. It’s a truly unique place which is steeped in history.  Location wise it’s even more exciting. The house sits within lush green parkland which was designed in the 18th century by famous architect, Humphry Repton. Inside you can expect a grand drawing-rooms, a library, chandelier drenched dining rooms and suites with four-poster beds big enough for three. You can also expect to eat from very exciting tasting menus and the resident dog will keep you company around the property. If history is what you’re looking for then this hotel has every century to offer. Read my full review of Ston Easton Park.