Best Luxury Hotels in England

While spa breaks are traditionally the domain of adults, Woolley Grange offers a unique all-age experience. Mini-me pamper sessions catering to younger skin enable kids to get a taste of treatments and the large indoor pool with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the charming Bath stone walled garden, is super for some fun splash time. But there are also zoned areas for grown-ups to relax away from the little ones. The treatment spaces are housed within a contemporary oak-timber building that exudes a sense of calm as soon as you enter. And there’s also an outdoor heated 12-metre pool, open from May to September.

31 bedrooms at the Bird Bath tell their own stories, from dinky doubles through to the Abbey Deluxe. Each is replete with superb views afforded by the building’s raised vantage point, hand-crafted wallpaper, unique artwork and bold designs. And at the top end of the category, guests can enjoy a freestanding copper roll top tub, Malin & Goetz toiletries, a Dyson hairdryer and a Nespresso machine. Meals are served at the hotel’s dramatically decorated restaurant, Plate, with afternoon teas on its terrace overlooking The Abbey. There’s also the option of private dome dining, or The Lodge, for larger groups.

One of the oldest hotels in the area, this four-storey castle was erected in 1350. The restored medieval tower house has walls seven inches thick, ensuring a quiet night’s rest. Another superb option for couples celebrating a special occasion, it has many four-poster beds (some in the main body of the castle) and a two AA Rosette eatery, the Josephine restaurant. Interconnecting rooms ensure families are well catered for as well and despite its age, the hotel offers a good level of accessibility. Guests can learn more about the Grade I listed building’s colourful history with tours of the battlements.

If you’d rather stay somewhere central and buzzing with activity, the Kings Head Hotel has a host of amenities and attractions on its Cirencester doorstep. But there’s plenty to keep you from leaving the 46 roomed premises – a spa and cinema in the cellar, the elegant dining room, cosy bar, frequent events and live entertainment. The 14th-century building also contains the remains of a Roman mosaic, encased in glass in the lobby. Kids and dogs are welcome in this relaxed yet luxe inn.

Love the ambience of a boutique hotel but prefer the freedom of your own luxury apartment when you’re away? Imagine your ideal space in a magnificent historic building in Leeds. Now set it within the distinctive soundscape of the cathedral, and you’ve discovered The Bells Serviced Apartments. Luxuriate in the super kingsize bedrooms of the Big Ben penthouse, with its panoramic views over the city. Alternatively, indulge your inner introvert in the snug library-like atmosphere of the Old Tom apartment with its private balcony. For the ultimate in indulgence, both the Gothic-inspired Emmanuel, and oak-panelled Great George apartments have private balconies with hot tubs.

Beyond the city wall of Chester and set in secluded gardens lies the 18th-century Georgian country manor house of Rowton Hall Hotel. If you are looking for complete relaxation in Chester this is the hotel for you. Rooms vary from classic bedrooms oozing character and charm though to their superior and premier rooms complete with four poster beds and right up to their suites and apartments which are perfect for indulgent longer stays. In the evening head to the Langdale Restaurant which offers a mix of daily and seasonal menus which take advantage of the freshest ingredients growing just outside the kitchen window. And for the ultimate in relaxation head to their large spa area which has an indoor pool looking out to the gardens, sauna, steam room and large menu of spa treatments.

Down Hall has 98 grand and elegant rooms decorated in theatrical rich fabrics and sporting freestanding mirrored tubs. Close to Stansted Airport, it’s ideal for those seeking a base before jetting abroad, or vacationers from the far end of the UK seeking a break just a short domestic flight away. The hotel is very family-friendly and treatments at the Eden Spa can be booked ahead of your stay. Walk, play tennis or have a game of giant chess in the 120 acres surrounding the property and dine at the Grill Room Restaurant with its excellent daily changing menu.

Take the road from Buxton toward Ashbourne and you’ll pass the gateway to this characterful property. Biggin Hall is a 17th-century limestone building, containing centuries-old hearths, beamed ceilings, antiques and York stone floors. But these historic elements are offset by contemporary artworks (look out for the sculpture trail in the gardens) and it has the feel of an aristocratic home. Room bookings can only be made for groups where all parties are aged 12 and over, so it’s not an option for younger families. With sophisticated candlelit dining accompanied by live classical music, it’s definitely better suited to those preferring a refined atmosphere.

People who have a love for all things artistic are sure to feel right at home in this quirky and eclectic establishment. The funky décor is perfectly complimented by the friendly and enthusiastic staff, who are always happy to go the extra mile to cater to the needs of guests. There are plenty of retro touches located throughout such as the wood burning stove, while there are plenty of large wooden terraces where guests can unwind while taking in the atmosphere. Each guestroom has been decorated by a different local artist and there is plenty of light and space. Mixing traditional English dishes and continental fare, the restaurant here does not disappoint and guests will want to walk along the coast to work up an appetite before taking their seat in the dining room.

PWeeke Barton’s sustainably-minded environment places an emphasis on homeliness. The owners (who live on-site, along with their spaniel and son) select the finest, most interesting products and ingredients, and have crafted a cosy yet minimal design for optimum relaxation. There are two sociable group sittings for dinner (kids at tea-time followed by adults only), allowing each group their own time. Then post-meal, why not recline into a garden hammock with a tasty tipple and take in the sounds of nature?

Offering some of the most stunning views in the whole of Canary Wharf, the Novotel London Canary Wharf sores high above the surrounding buildings. The sophisticated top-floor bar is the perfect place to unwind with a cool cocktail at the end of the day while soaking up the scenery. The check-in process is informal and is sure to put nervous travellers at ease while offering a memorable personalised touch. Lovers of luxury will want to make sure that they secure one of the 26 sumptuous suites, which have open plans to help them feel especially spacious and decadent.

An old station hotel dating back to the Victorian era, The Milner York has been transformed into an elegant, yet modern establishment ideally placed for exploring the city. York Minster is a ten-minute walk away and the National Railway Museum is just five minutes. As would be expected from a luxury hotel the facilities are excellent with hotel concierge, and porters who will meet you at the station if you’re arriving by train. While enjoying the sights and sounds of York don’t miss out on afternoon tea in the hotel’s fabulous Garden Rooms. In the evening make use of the hotel’s pool and gymnasium, before enjoying a gourmet evening meal prepared with Yorkshire’s finest products.