Best Urban Hotels in United Kingdom

This incredible Grade I-listed, Georgian building is the jewel in Buxton’s crown. Built by the fifth Duke of Devonshire in the 1780s, it fell into disrepair at the end of the 20th century. Under more recent ownership by the Ensana brand, Buxton Crescent reopened at the end of 2020, after undergoing a lavish renovation spanning almost two decades. As a result, everything here is in mint, brand new condition, sensitively retaining the original features, while adding sophisticated and on-trend elements. Drawing on the natural thermal waters of its environs, the spa here is a dream, with several indoor hydro experiences, relaxation rooms and a salt grotto. Guests have unlimited access and can swim from indoors to out, in the rooftop infinity pool. The dining offer is top class too, with service to match.

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.

The sophisticated boutique hotel overlooks the River Cam and offers stunning views of the local area. Just a short walk from the University and close to the historic centre, the hotel presents guests with a convenient location. The four-star hotel takes inspiration from the prestigious University and throughout the hotel there are nods to college architecture and crests, and discoveries like the DNA double helix. Rooms are refined and comfortable with upgraded rooms boasting a private balcony and river views whilst the 2-room penthouse includes a private roof terrace. Riverfront dining (indoors and outdoors) can be enjoyed in the hotel’s restaurant Garden House. The restaurant serves a seasonal flame-focussed menu with a great range of British, European and new world wines and creative cocktails to complement at Garden Bar.

Looking out on the southern corner of the 25 acre Parkers Piece park the Gonville Hotel offers a truly unique experience in the heart of the city. It is just a short walk from the hotel to Market square and Cambridge’s colleges. The hotel has been recently renovated and the finished look is both contemporary but in keeping with the history of this historical city. if you want complete luxury book one of their eight feature rooms in Gresham House the stand along villa in the hotel. Each room has been individually styles and features extras like Bose speakers, cashmere bed, and glorious ESPA toiletries in the bathroom. Foodies can rejoice as the hotel has some of the best dining in Cambridge. You can have Fine Dining in the hotel’s Cotto Restaurant overseen by Master Chef Hans Schweitzer and lunch in the Atrium Brasserie. They also have a comprehensive wellness spa offering a large range of spa treatments, and to top things off they offer complimentary picks up and drop offs in the hotel’s Bentley.

One of the cities newest luxury hotel’s The Tambulaine is a stunning and elegant hotel in an ideal location close to the centre of Cambridge. The hotel takes its inspiration from its namesake from 16th century dramatist and Cambridge alumni Christopher Marlowe’s most famous character. The hotel offers 155 guest rooms, which include floors to ceiling windows to let in maximum light. Décor is charming and full of character, with a base palette of Cambridge blue highlighting dark wood panelling, polished concrete, gleaming brass and richly patterned fabrics. The hotel’s bar offers seasonal menu options, while the Brasserie-style dining room features a majestic carved marble bar, along with accents of soft leather, gleaming brass and salvaged timber. And if you want somewhere to cost away in head to the library which features leather armchairs, an open fire and is where their Afternoon Tea is served each day.

Those preferring something a little more bohemian and very in keeping with Brighton’s eccentric and creative side should book a stay at this Regency Townhouse. 24 bedrooms are all individually designed. Each contains original artworks, murals, limited edition prints, a Nespresso coffee machine, a Roberts radio, organic bath products and a mix of vintage and reclaimed furniture. Some have balconies and extra fancy touches like copper sided rolltop bathtubs and super king-sized unusual metal-framed four-poster beds. With rooms for four or six too, it’s the ideal establishment for discerning small groups. There’s also an all-day cafe and bar – their brunch is especially good.

Two quaint pale green buildings in the Lanes sandwich a little medieval-type structure that’s like something straight out of a Brothers Grimm fairy tale. Together they house Brighton’s Hotel Du Vin, a 49 bedroom property with chic New England style interiors. Upgrade to the lavish Cristal loft suite if you wish to sleep in an 8ft by 8ft bed, recline on leather sofas, soak in twin clawfooted tubs and soak up the sun on the suite’s huge private terrace. There’s a shared terrace for residents also, as well as a maritime-themed bistro and a trendy on-site pub.

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.

This city centre hotel is part of the QHotels Collection and is one of Leeds most famous and beloved landmarks. Following a recent transformation, the hotel offers elegant grandeur with art-deco style and first-class service. The hotel comprises 232 stylish bedrooms and suites; from cosy doubles through to roof-top terrace suites. Opulent interiors continue through to The Grand Pacific – the hotel’s restaurant – where diners can enjoy all day dining with flavours from far flung lands, fused together with quintessential British classics. For coffee, cocktails or Afternoon Tea, The Bar or Café Pacific are the perfect places to indulge in a tipple or two. With premium meeting and conference facilities and convenient location, the hotel is an excellent choice for both business and leisure travellers too.

The grade II listed Quebecs Hotel offers the ultimate in comfort in the splendid surroundings of the former Leeds and County Liberal Club. Once through the impressive original entrance with its wrought-iron gates, you’re guaranteed a matchless experience in one of the hotel’s 44 unique rooms, with down-filled pillows and quilts on the comfortable beds. The former porters’ lodge is now a snug lounge bar which is perfect place for morning coffee, afternoon tea or an evening cocktail. That’s if you can be lured away from your sumptuous, well-stocked room.

If you’re looking for accommodation with the “wow” factor, the colourful, arty Malmaison is the place to choose. Each stunning room has its own characterful look. The Malmaison takes pride in service and comfort, with plenty of luxuries in your room. Everything is taken care of so that you can simply enjoy everything vibrant Leeds has to offer, knowing that on your return you can have a shower with luscious bathing treats before dropping into one of the comfy chairs to enjoy the unlimited Wi-Fi with a glass of bubbly in your hand.

The Dakota Deluxe Hotel promises that a stay in any one of its varied rooms and suites will make you feel special. It’s no idle boast. Every room oozes with calm, creating the ideal space to relax after a busy day enjoying the buzz in the heart of lively Leeds. Those who need to be undisturbed to get on with some work will find the Executive rooms ideal. There’s everything you need to work in a stress-free atmosphere, with complimentary high speed WiFi, work desk, media hub, Bluetooth and HDMI connectivity.