Best Luxury Hotels in England

One of London’s most anticipated luxury hotel openings has taken another significant step forward, with Waldorf Astoria London – Admiralty Arch officially opening reservations ahead of its long-awaited debut later this year. Occupying one of the capital’s most recognisable landmarks, the hotel will become the first Waldorf Astoria property in London and the first time in Admiralty Arch’s over 100-year history that guests will be able to stay overnight within the Grade I-listed building. Reservations are now available for stays from 1 March 2027, with additional dates expected to be released as the hotel’s autumn opening approaches.

A luxurious flagship hotel in the historic Paddington area of London, Inhabit Southwick Street – a member of Design Hotels offers respite from the bustling city centre and a range of world-class amenities to enhance your stay. There are 159 thoughtfully designed guestrooms showcasing the best of contemporary Scandinavian design with traditional Eastern and British twists. On-site dining is available in Yeotown where fresh, plant-based cuisine is served all day or at Pantry where you’ll find healthy snacks and soft drinks on offer. Inhale at Inhabit is the comprehensive wellness centre boasting indulgent treatments and a yoga studio alongside the fitness centre featuring a Peloton bike. There is a calming library and a retail facility where guests can browse.

The Varsity of one of the city’s most luxurious properties and also conveniently located in the city centre close to St John’s, Trinity, Jesus and Magdalene College. King’s, Christ’s, Queens’, Gonville and Caius, Clare, Corpus Christi universities. Boutique in size with just 44 rooms, each being individually designed and celebrating the heritage of the city. Their Superking Rooms feature four-poster beds and gorgeous free-standing hot tubs with walk out balconies, while their fellow suites is set over 80sqm, including a private terrace, 19” Apple Mac roll-top bath and a monsoon shower. The hotel includes two dining options SIX their brasserie on the top floor includes 360o views across Cambridge and serves dishes from their Wood Stone oven, Grill and Rotisserie, while their Steakhouse The River Bar down at the River Cam serves 28-day dry-aged steaks. If you are looking for some pampering head to the hotel’s spa The Glassworks which includes an Elewmis Spa, Gym, Steam Room and Jacuzzi.

Whatley Manor’s 12 acres of land has been carefully formed into no less than 26 separate gardens. The Grade II listed building became a hotel in 2003 but dates back to the 18th century. Found in the hamlet of Easton Grey on the edge of Malmesbury it provides a base to explore the southern wolds. It houses 23 unique rooms, Aquarias Spa, bars and eateries. Winner of this year’s Great British Menu, Executive Chef, Niall Keating serves his banquets in the venue’s on-site restaurant and brasserie, and via the roaming ‘Paradise Carriage’ takeaway.

This was the grand hotel of choice for the Duchess of Sussex the night before her nuptials. The five-star mansion has often been a royal haunt. It dates back to the 17th century and was the home of the Astor family. Regal rooms are furnished with antiques and plush textiles, some with their own hot tubs and separate living areas. The Astor Grill and Cliveden Dining Room are refined grand affairs and afternoon tea is a speciality. Guests can also enjoy some pamper time in a spa located behind its walled garden.

Hotels in the Four Seasons group promise a reliably luxurious standard of living, as well as great food. This one in Dogmersfield encompasses 500 acres of land, with accommodation varying from a Grand Manor Room with estate views, through to an elite two bedroomed Royal Suite. The decor reflects its countryside locale, as does the culinary offer. Meals can be taken at Wild Carrot, Cafe Sante, in the Library, the bar, or Fox Hollow (the latter providing private dining for groups). The hotel is very child and pet friendly, ideal for a family break.

A fashionable address and celebrity haunt, The Lowry has an Elemis spa with eight treatment rooms, a relaxation area and a sauna, plus a hair salon. Rooms also have the wellness brand’s toiletries, along with huge windows, walk-in wardrobes, baths and fine artwork. The Hotel is named after one of Manchester’s most famed artists and hosts revolving art and photography exhibitions. Head to the first floor River Restaurant and Bar for hearty a la carte dishes, or lighter bites – kids can select from a mini gourmet menu (toddlers eat for free, with those under 12 at half price).

One hundred and twelve years after first opening as the brainchild of Cezar Ritz, The Ritz, London is still one of the world’s finest hotels. It was awarded the Royal Warrant in 2002, the only hotel to hold it. Staying at the Ritz is a five-star experience that combines old-world opulence with the highest level of customer service available anywhere. Eat in the Michelin-starred restaurant, still regarded by many as the most beautiful dining room on the planet or take afternoon tea on the terrace. The hotel is close to Green Park and the West End.

Discover the Harrogate and The Dales while staying at five-star Grantley Hall. The hotel -part of the Relais and Chateaux portfolio – is made up of 47 bedrooms, four restaurants, three bars, a gym and the Roman-inspired Three Graces Spa. The decor echoes the buildings grand Palladian origins, accompanied by a muted, calming palette, Fine dine at Shaun Rankin, Fletchers, Eightyeight and Valeria’s. Grab a bite at the Norton Bar and Courtyard of the spa lounge. Swim in a marble edged pool, take drinks al fresco on the terraces, wander through the olive tree-lined atrium and spend a few hours in the wine tasting room.

An iconic and historic Victorian hotel, this building has become a landmark on the seafront. Built to an Italian Renaissance style, it retains many period features, but with a contemporary vibe inspired by its surroundings. The Grand’s new dining room, Cyan, has become a destination restaurant. Here, two and three-course set menus and a curated range of small plates, sharing platters, and signature dishes can be ordered. There’s also the option of the Victoria Terrace Grill and bar. Single rooms through to Grand Collection suites can be booked, with higher grades providing BOSE sound systems, sweeping sea views, 32” LCD flat-screen TV and Noble Isle bath products.

Located in a peaceful idyll just a few miles from the university town of Cambridge, is the 17th century Tuddenham Mill. 12 acres of grounds include a pond with resident swans, weeping willows and a meadow. Stay in one of 21 boutique bedrooms (Nooks and Lofts) with lavish contemporary furnishings and rustic features. Dine in The Mill’s sleek three AA Rosette multi-award-winning restaurant or grab a drink in the airy lounge bar. The hotel is dog and child friendly, with special menus geared to younger visitors.§

Situated just a few miles from the M20 motorway, this is a dreamy place to break from a road trip. Awarded four AA Red Stars and a Visit Britain accolade in 2020, the ethos here is all about creating custom-designed experiences for guests. It has a Grade I listing, dates back to the 17thg century and is surrounded by 22 acres of land with a grand fountain greeting arriving guests. Rooms here are filled with antiques, alongside yoga mats and fitness equipment to work out in the privacy of your own space. Accommodation is spread between the main house, a new wing, a renovated stables and coachman’s cottages. Dine at Culpeper, or arrange your own private dinner party in one of Chilston Park’s exclusive dining areas.