Best hotels and country homes for a UK staycation this summer

Get set for an unforgettable summer with our handpicked selection of the UK's finest places to stay, ranging from the tranquil New Forest to the charming Cotswolds.

Image: Lands End, Cornwall, UK. Photo by Benjamin Elliott.

Excitement is in the air as May's two bank holidays are just around the corner, and the promise of a glorious British summer beckons. Whether you crave the beauty of nature, the charm of historic cities, the serenity of pristine beaches, or the quaintness of idyllic villages, we have handpicked a selection of UK hotels and country homes that are guaranteed to make your staycation unforgettable. From the idyllic Lake District to the charming Cotswolds, each of these accommodations promises an experience that will stay with you long after you leave.

Birch Community

Image: Birch Community, December 2021, © MTotoe

#FLODown: Birch is a luxurious concept hotel that is housed in an 18th-century English mansion located in the 55-acre Georgian Theobalds Estate in Cheshunt, Hertfordshire. Just a short journey from London, Birch promises to be the perfect home away from home, offering guests the opportunity to swap the concrete jungle of the city for natural wilderness. With classes and events ranging from gong sound healing to terrazzo and pottery throwing sessions, sourdough bread making, glassblowing, yoga, and cold-water therapy, there is no shortage of things to do. The hotel's commitment to sustainability and the environment is reflected in every aspect of its design, from the tastefully understated decor that employs up-cycling techniques to the farm-to-table restaurants situated amidst sprawling grounds that guests are encouraged to explore at their leisure.In addition to their location in Hertfordshire, Birch has recently opened their second location at the historic Selsdon Park Hotel in Croydon.

Image: Birch Selsdon Estate. ©Inna Kostukovsky

This new 181-room property features a plethora of first-rate leisure options, including a sprawling leisure centre, tennis courts, a picturesque running trail, and a sparkling lido, guests can revel in luxury while soaking in the sublime natural beauty that surrounds them. Boasting state-of-the-art meeting and conference facilities, this haven can be perfect for those seeking a seamless blend of work and play.Located just a stone's throw away from the Selsdon Wood Nature Reserve and a quick 30-minute drive from the bustling metropolis of London, it the perfect destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating escape.

Location: Birch (Chesnut): Lieutenant Ellis Way, Cheshunt EN7 5HW, Birch (Selsdon): 126 Addington Rd, South Croydon, CR2 8YA. Price: from £119 per night.

NOTE: BIRCH IS NOW CLOSED.

Website: birchcommunity.com Instagram: @birchcommunity

The Lakes by Yoo

Image: The Lakes by Yoo, February 2022, © MTotoe

#FLODown: Nestled in the picturesque Cotswolds, The Lakes by Yoo is a luxurious estate that promises a one-of-a-kind countryside retreat. Boasting 850 acres, the estate sits on the idyllic Lechlade Upon Thames and offers 160 exquisite homes available for ownership or rent. The estate's sleek wood and glass designs are perfectly positioned around nine glistening lakes and enchanting woodland, all of which present awe-inspiring views. The Lakes is an ideal destination for those who seek outdoor pursuits, with an array of activities such as biking, horse riding, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Moreover, the estate is home to The Orchard Spa, an oasis of serenity featuring a 17-meter heated pool, a gym, and treatment rooms. What's more, the estate caters to your every need, including private in-house dining. With accommodation options ranging from snug rooms to magnificent 4-bedroom lakehouses, The Lakes is the ultimate location for a romatic getaway, a family holiday, a friends' getaway, or even a corporate retreat!

Location: The Lakes by Yoo, High Street, Lechlade GL7 3DT. Price: from £275 per night.

Website: thelakesbyyoo.com Instagram: @lakes_byyoo

The Haweswater Hotel

Image: @thehaweswaterhotel

#FLODown: Nestled within the breathtaking Lake District National Park, the Haweswater Hotel is a charming and welcoming pet-friendly retreat that boasts magnificent views of the tranquil lake and majestic mountains. Originally built in 1937, this hotel beautifully blends contemporary design with original features and authentic furnishings, retaining its period charm and character. Surrounded by serene woodland, this peaceful property offers guests a picturesque setting, perfect for leisurely strolls, wildlife spotting, and rejuvenating hikes. The hotel is well-equipped for outdoor enthusiasts, with maps, walking routes, drying facilities, and secure bicycle storage, ensuring guests can make the most of the picturesque surroundings. The Hotel offers two fantastic restaurants, including restaurant by chef Mark Greenaway, and a bar, providing guests with a range of dining options to savour while admiring the stunning lake view terrace. With ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and fishing, the hotel provides the ideal location for nature lovers seeking an outdoor adventure in the Lake District.

Location: Lakeside Road, Bampton, Penrith CA10 2RP. Price: from just £111 per night. Please note that a minimum of two nights' stay is required to secure your booking.

Website: haweswaterhotel.com Instagram: @thehaweswaterhotel

The Pig Hotel, Brockenhurst

Image: Pig Hotel Brockenhurst, @the_pig_hotels

#FLODownThe Pig Hotel in Brockenhurst is a true gem in the collection of Pig Hotels, renowned for its timeless elegance and rustic charm. As the first of the Pig Hotels to open its doors in 2011, it has remained a beloved choice for visitors in search of a peaceful countryside retreat. The hotel boasts a selection of cosy farmhouse suites, a Michelin Guide restaurant, and acres of woodlands for tranquil strolls. Inside, the interiors evoke a sense of rustic chic with plush furnishings and inviting fireplaces. Each of the 29 rooms has been thoughtfully designed to provide the utmost comfort, whilst maintaining the hotel's signature country charm.The Pig Hotel brand encompasses a total of eight properties, including the original in Brockenhurst, as well as locations in Southampton, Studland, and Devon. With a strong commitment to locally sourced and home-grown produce, the brand has become synonymous with quality and authenticity. Excitingly, two new sites in Stratford-upon-Avon and Tunbridge Wells are set to open in 2024 and 2025, respectively.Whether you're planning a long, luxurious stay or a spontaneous getaway, the Pig Hotel collection is the perfect destination to indulge in the beauty and charm of the English countryside.

Location: Beaulieu Road, Brockenhurst, Hampshire, SO42 7QL. Price: from £220. Please note that a minimum of two nights' stay is required to secure your booking.

Website: thepighotel.com Instagram: @the_pig_hotels

Wilderness Reserve

Image: Stump, Wilderness Reserve, @wildernessreserve

#FLODown: Wilderness Reserve is a unique estate in the heart of Suffolk, offering a range of luxury properties that have been lovingly restored by skilled artisans. The estate spans over 8000 acres of rolling pastures, woodland, and lakes, providing a stunning backdrop for the collection of Grade II listed manor houses, thatched cottages, and romantic retreats. But Wilderness Reserve is not just a place to stay, it's a playground full of over 40 unique activities that make the most of the open spaces, lakes, and woodland. And now, with three newly restored cottages boasting a private spa, guests can indulge in the ultimate luxury. Whether you're yearning for a serene getaway or an exhilarating adventure, Wilderness Reserve caters to all.From complimentary Pashley cycles to clay-pigeon shooting and private chefs, this estate is the quintessential escape from the fast-paced life of London, allowing you to relish the tranquil silence of the Suffolk countryside at Wilderness Reserve.

 Location: Yoxford Rd, Saxmundham IP17 2LY. Price: from £392 per night.

 Website: wildernessreserve.com Instagram: @wildernessreserve

Flint Barns at Rathfinny Wine Estate

Image: @rathfinnyestate

#FLODown: Escape to the stunning South Downs of Sussex and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Rathfinny Wine Estate. This family-owned vineyard is an idyllic getaway that boasts exceptional views of the picturesque countryside. The estate's rustic charm is embodied by Flint Barns, which have been meticulously restored and decorated with contemporary furnishings, offering ten beautifully appointed en-suite bedrooms, providing a home-away-from-home experience for guests. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including hiking and a tour of the winery, culminating in a delicious 2 or 3 course lunch in the Tasting Rooms and a selection of wine tastings at the restored cellar shop. A trip to Flint Barns at Rathfinny Wine Estate offers the perfect opportunity to delve into the exceptional world of wine and bask in the natural beauty of the South Downs.

Location: Flint Barns, Rathfinny Wine Estate, Alfriston, East Sussex, BN26 5TU. Price: from £100 per night.

Website: rathfinnyestate.com Instagram: @rathfinnyestate

Thyme Hotel

Image: Thyme, Southrop, September 2018, ©ETotoe

#FLODown: Thyme hotel is a true sanctuary tucked away in the charming Cotswold village of Southrop. Comprised of beautifully restored historic buildings, the hotel exudes understated elegance while seamlessly blending in with its natural surroundings. Founder and creative director Caryn Hibbert's unwavering dedication to sustainability and conservation is evident throughout the property. Thyme offers everything you could need for the perfect staycation, from an exquisite restaurant and indulgent spa, tennis court to kitchen gardens and a cookery school. The hotel's range of activities is equally impressive, with options including scenic walks through the rolling countryside, bike rides through the quaint neighbouring villages and towns, and visits to nearby gems such as Blenheim Palace, Hidcote Manor, Rousham House, and the Cotswold Wildlife Park. The botanically-inspired bedrooms are nestled throughout the property's charming houses and cottages, each adorned with unique colours inspired by botanical names and carefully curated antique pieces. Indulge in a peaceful retreat at Thyme hotel and experience the best of the Cotswolds.

Location: Thyme, Southrop, Lechlade GL7 3NX. Price: from £360 per night.

Website:thyme.co.uk Instagram: @thyme.england

The Newt in Somerset

Image: The Newt, Somerset, @thenewtinsomerset

#FLODown: Nestled within the Palladian-fronted Hadspen House estate, The Newt in Somerset is a luxurious and sustainable country house hotel with over 40 stylish rooms, expansive parkland, orchards, and gardens. The estate boasts various facilities, including a cyder press, bottling plant and bar, mushroom house, History of Gardening Museum, and treetop walk. The Parabola walled garden steals the show, housing a breathtaking collection of 460 trained British apple trees of 267 varieties. Indulge in the farm-to-table restaurant's dishes made from the freshest local ingredients, and rejuvenate yourself with the spa's indulgent treatments. This luxe and sustainable staycation offers the perfect balance of eco-friendliness and indulgence, allowing you to relax and recharge in style.

Location: The Newt in Somerset Bruton Somerset BA7 7NG. Price: from £495. There is a minimum 2 night stay during the week, and a minimum 3 night stay at weekends.

Website: thenewtinsomerset.com Instagram: @thenewtinsomerset 

Soho Farmhouse

Image: Soho Farmhouse, August 2022, © MTotoe

#FLODown: Nestled amidst the charming villages of Great Tew, Oxfordshire lies the magnificent Soho Farmhouse - a serene rural retreat brought to life by the prestigious members club, Soho House. This picturesque property spans across 100 acres of idyllic countryside and boasts an impressive array of top-notch amenities such as a pool, cinema, gym, Cowshed spa, and not one, but five exceptional onsite restaurants. The estate offers over 100 stylishly designed bedrooms with 15 different room types to choose from - ranging from intimate Piglets to larger cabins that can accommodate up to 14 guests.During their stay, guests can indulge in a variety of activities and explore the stunning surroundings on complementary Foffa bikes. From clay pigeon shooting, horse riding, and boating to an ever-changing program of events, Soho Farmhouse offers an incredible lineup of entertainment to keep you busy. With the serene setting and packed program of constantly changing events, it's no wonder that Soho Farmhouse has quickly become a sought-after destination for those seeking a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Location: Soho Farmhouse, Great Tew, Chipping Norton OX7 4JS. Price: from £295. Soho House hotels are open to members only. A "Friends" membership is available for £100 per year. This membership will grant you access to book their luxurious hotels, in addition to nightly rates.

Website: sohohouse.com Instagram: @sohohouse

No.38 The Park

Image: No.38 The Park Hotel Cheltenham. Image courtesy of Young’s Rooms

#FLODown: Nestled in the leafy  corner of Pittville, neighbouring the Cheltenham racecourse, you'll find No.38 The Park—a charming destination offering luxurious rooms and an excellent restaurant. Housed in a beautiful Georgian townhouse, the boutique bedrooms feature unique artworks, stylish prints, and comfortable linens. Downstairs, you can indulge in a delightful dining experience with seasonal menus that showcase the best of British ingredients, expertly crafted by Head Chef József Kuti. At the bar, you'll discover a selection of Young's ales, craft beers, and a concise wine list, perfectly complementing your visit.

Location: 38 Evesham Rd, Cheltenham GL52 2AH. Price: from £450 per couple

Website: no38thepark.com. Instagram: @no38thepark