Best Luxury Hotels in England

A few minutes walk from Trafalgar Square is this relatively unassuming, Edwardian fronted 153-bedroom hotel. But this was in fact, the original HQ for Scotland Yard, now a five-star refurbished property, that’s part of the Hyatt’s Unbound Collection. The interiors are modern, yet effectively pay homage to the building’s past, with copious memorabilia and artworks. The Yard is the hotel’s aptly named restaurant, plus there’s a cosy colonial style Parlour and a whisky bar evocative of the art deco era. It’s also pet friendly, offers valet parking and has an onsite fitness centre.

Part of the same group as the Ham Yard, the Haymarket lies in the heart of Theatre-land on the corner of Haymarket and Suffolk Place offering the best of the cities bars and restaurants on your doorstep as well as some of the best shopping in the city. The hotel has 50 bedrooms each designed individually by style and design director and owner Kit Kemp and you can unwind in the hotels pool after a day exploring the city.

Hazlitt’s is located in Soho and takes it’s name from William Hazlitt the 18h century essayist. Prepare to step back in time to a bygone era of old world English opulence, the minute you step through the door you won’t believe you are right in the heart of central London. Hazlitt’s is popular with creatives coming to the city and remains very much low key with much of it’s success based solely on word of mouth reviews. Very much a home from home, relax in the library with a good book, have a drink from the honesty bar or unwind in your rooms Victorian roll top bath.

This hotel is located on Henrietta Street, and this street is known for its fine architecture. The hotel is owned by a Paris-based business group, but it does not feature French designs. In fact, the rooms have a traditional English and highly unusual design and feel. The general mood in the place is calm, professional and friendly. In total, the hotel has 18 rooms, and one of them is specially designed for visitors with disabilities. There is also an exquisite cocktail bar and a remarkable restaurant.

Hotel 41 is a hidden gem located near Buckingham Palace, exuding the intimate ambience of a private members’ club with a prestigious Forbes Five Star rating. This intimate hideaway of a hotel features 30 exquisite rooms and suites, relaxed social spaces and a chic ambience made for discerning travellers. At the heart of the hotel is the sophisticated lounge and historic dining room which offers around-the-clock refreshments along with the unique ‘plunder the pantry’ – a delightful daily treat of sweet and savoury snacks for guests to enjoy at their leisure. Each room is individually styled in black and white, adorned with mahogany panelling, sumptuous bedding, marble bathrooms, accented with playful prints by René Gruau and drawings by French caricaturist Sem. Scented candles and many other fine and indulgent details make for a relaxed and luxurious stay. For a truly special sleep-over, book the Master Conservatory Suite which is set over a split level with a glass ceiling so guests can sleep under the stars in the utmost of comfort. Known for its personalised service, attentive team and sophisticated style, Hotel 41 is an elegant and discrete escape set in a royal location.

This charming Victorian country house is set right on the eastern bank of Lake Windermere and provides guests with stunning views of the lake and fells. Taking afternoon tea on the terrace is a quintessential English experience that should not be missed, while this establishment also comes complete with tennis courts and a private hot tub that can be booked free of charge. In addition to the main rooms and annex rooms, guests have the chance to book one of three cosy cottages, which have been decorated in a light contemporary style and boast amenities such as a large patio, hot tub and small kitchen.

Named Hotel of the Year at The Catey Awards, this grande dame was erected in 1906 as a “Palace of Business”. Nowadays it’s also the choice for spa-seekers and foodies. The landmark property comprises a large cookery school, where you can learn the skills of baking, fine patisserie, curry making, seafood prep and much more — parent and child classes are also available. Its original restaurant, The Rise, has three AA Rosettes, while the newer venue, Legacy, serves an eight-course tasting feast with an optional wine flight. Afternoon tea can be taken on the terrace and The Grand has a bar.

Found on the banks of the River Frome, The Priory is an independently owned boutique hotel, with a renowned fine dining restaurant on Dorset’s south coast. Bedrooms are all unique, cosy, decorated in soft hues and furnished with unique antique pieces. Some are in the Main House, while others are right beside the water in the Boat House. The dining room – serving meals all day from breakfast through to dinner – has a classic country house feel, with green oak beams, fine china and luxury Mulberry Home interiors. Very much a grown-up residence, The Priory is reserved for guests aged 14 and over.

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.

Reward yourself with 5-star service and luxury amenities at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House. Located in one of the capital’s best addresses Park Lane Mayfair and moments away from many of the city’s best attractions like Oxford Street, Buckingham Palace and Knightsbridge. Make yourself at home in their elegant rooms and suites, featuring plush pillow-top beds, marble bathrooms and many with views out to Hyde Park. Savour delicious dining at JW Steakhouse and start the evening off with a cocktail at Red Bar and the Bourbon Bar. This landmark hotel is perfect for business travellers and guests who appreciate a touch of contemporary British design and style without the stuffiness.

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.

The first JW Marriott branded hotel in the UK, this elegant townhouse overlooking Hyde Park, was once home to the Grosvenor family/Dukes of Westminster. While its heritage stems back to the Roaring Twenties, the interiors display a classic contemporary panache. Bedrooms boast king-sized beds, fully stocked minibars, marble bathrooms and Aromatherapy Associates toiletries. It has an American-style steakhouse on the ground floor and a fine dining restaurant by chef Richard Corrigan, as well as two additional eateries and bars. Do stop by The Great Room – now a meeting hall, it was once an ice rink, where none other than our monarch, Queen Elizabeth, learned to skate.