Where to Stay in England: The Best Design Hotels, Homestays, Treehouses and More

My list of stylish England hotels (and other gems) from past trips and future travel wish list

Pink bedroom in England hotel decorated in eclectic English country style

Image: Old Boy’s Bedroom shot on a stay at Glebe House Devon

With an English husband, I am fortunate to spend a good amount of time in England and always take the opportunity to travel around a bit. As a result, I’ve always got my ear to the grindstone to identify new places for future visits. And not just any places, but hotels, homes and other accommodations with a focus on design, hospitality, and uniqueness, as in they must feel specific to England, and not like they could be anywhere in the world.  

In fact, my list of where to stay is so in depth — and proven out by my frequent holiday photos — that my cousin who recently moved to London to work at the Mandarin Oriental (meaning, he obviously has very discerning taste) asked me for my recommendations for hotels outside of London. When I obliged in a flurry of text messages, he was thrilled and suggested that I share on Sense of Spencer. So here it goes. 

 
 

Why to Visit England, Beyond London

I realize most people traveling from abroad come to England primarily to visit London, and while the capital certainly has enough to occupy you, I strongly suggest planning a few days in another part of the country. You might think I’m working for the Visit Britain travel board, but I swear I am not (though I will suggest you play the accents game; for such a small country they really do have a plethora of accents). However, I am admittedly biased, as I have traveled all around England and believe it holds up to other popular destinations in Europe. England is such an exciting place for design and even food these days in addition to the sweeping landscapes of countrysides and sea as well as the trademark charm that has long distinguished it.

On the plus side, since it’s a relatively small country, it doesn’t take too much time to travel from London to other destinations. You could easily do a road trip stopping in a few choice destinations to maximize your ability to see and experience more (for extra inspiration, check out this hilarious movie The Trip, a story about two comic writers traveling around England on a gastronomic journey). For a shift of pace and to really soak up true England, you could pick one place to post up for an extended stay and would not be disappointed.   

Getting around England

A car is the most efficient way to get around and allows you to navigate through villages and other off the beaten path spots. You can arrive in the country or the sea in as little as two to three hours from London (add a couple more hours to travel to more remote locations north or south). However, for the faint of heart unenthused about driving ‘on the wrong side’ or navigating one way country lanes, train travel is a fantastic option depending on the final destination. Many of the hotels I recommend are not far from train stops. Some are located in villages where you can easily walk around or are destinations unto themselves where you won’t want to leave. Plus, with the train, you get the added benefit of being able to gaze out at the countryside on your journey. 

 
 

List of England Hotels & Other Accommodation

Since UK geography can be tricky to navigate without local knowledge, I am organizing the list of England hotels et al by general regions in terms of directionality (southwest, north, midlands, etc), familiarity (Cotswolds), and proximity to London. The one exception is rental houses that are located all over the country and grouped into one section. 

Note: this list will continually be updated as new hotels (and other options) come to my attention. So check back in before you solidify your plans.

 
England hotels_home rentals_Unique Homestay (Rhapsody)

Image: Unique Homestay (Rhapsody)

 

Airbnb but Better (All Around England)

England has much better vacation home rentals options than anywhere else I’ve ever been. Move over Airbnb and VRBO, the rental sites in England are far more curated and thus a lot easier to navigate and find a place that feels special and worthy of your holiday. You can’t go wrong staying in any of these picturesque abodes whether you want to recreate the cozy country cottage from the Holiday, try out the English seaside, or plan an event on a spectacular estate. 

Unique Home Stays

All over England 

A curated collection of the UK’s most exclusive luxury cottages for homestays and weddings, all hand-picked and visited by their team. Accommodations include upscale homes, from architect-designed masterpieces to pared-back beach houses, luxury holiday cottages and flamboyant country houses in secret gardens.

https://www.uniquehomestays.com

Plum Guide 

All over the world, with denisite in England

They tout themselves as ‘the best vacation rentals in the world’ or ‘the home stay equivalent of the Michelin guide’. Each home is vetted by expected and guaranteed by their promise. Accommodations include luxury cottages, ‘Airbnb alternatives’ and more. 

https://www.plumguide.com

Landmark Trust

Across the UK 

Stay in historic homes that are each completely and utterly unique with charming and quirky details. Accommodations include over 200 historic buildings that have been lovingly restored, from castles to lighthouses and everything in between.

https://www.landmarktrust.org.uk/ 

Kip Hideaways 

UK and Ireland 

Small places with soul is their tagline, which tells you everything you need to know. Membership gives you access to a tightly curated selection of homes and the ability to book directly with owners. Accommodations include a collection of cool, contemporary cabins.

https://www.kiphideaways.com/

Boutique Retreats 

Across the UK, including England, Wales and Scotland

A unique portfolio of boutique retreats specializing in short breaks all year round. Accommodations include luxury cottages, from Victorian boat houses and water towers to ancient farmhouses and super-modern eco homes.

https://boutique-retreats.co.uk/

Where to Stay in London

 
 
England hotel, London, The Connaught

Image: The Connaught

The Connaught

Mayfair, London

For a 5-star experience, The Connaught will exceed your expectations. Imagine stepping off a plane and letting the hotel’s world class service take care of everything upon arrival. I don’t know about you, but when I’m splurging, hospitality is everything, and gorgeous hotel rooms and premises are a close second. While many other 5-star hotels may offer the same things, the reason this hotel makes the list is because it is distinctly English but still offers the contemporary touches expected by the modern traveler.    

https://www.the-connaught.co.uk/

 
 
England hotel, London, Middle Eight

Image: Middle Eight

Middle Eight

Covent Garden, London

Not the flashiest option but also not a generic chain hotel either, the Middle Eight is a very reasonably priced hotel that’s relatively new and offers thoughtful touches, like tea and biscuits waiting in the room on arrival. The rooms aren’t huge but they are well laid out with enough room to maneuver a bag and a sofa to recline on. The location is unbeatable, on a quiet road, just a stone’s throw from the shopping areas in Covent Garden and a short walk to Soho for restaurants and theater. 

https://www.middleeight.com/

England hotel, London, Holborn Hoxton

Image: Holborn Hoxton

 
 

Holborn Hoxton

Holborn, London

Another reasonably priced option in London, this hotel has a cool vibe and buzzes with energy. So it’s a good option if you want to land and feel like you’ve arrived, if you know what I mean. The lobby is always bustling with people working or eating, yet the rooms are still quiet. The location is close to central London destinations, but the hotel is on a busy street with few restaurants or shops in the immediate vicinity. The rooms are TINY, which is the biggest downside. 

https://thehoxton.com/london/holborn

Where to Stay Just Outside of London

Image: view from the Buckingham suite where I stayed

Cliveden House

Taplow, Berkshire

Once owned by the American Astors, where a major political scandal occurred, not to mention where Meaghan Markle spent the night before her wedding to Prince Harry, Cliveden House is a historical property updated to deliver modern luxury. When I visited, I had the fortune to stay in two different rooms, each one with a distinctive design (each room is named after a famous previous visitor and they put your name on a plaque on the door; I stayed in Buckingham and Vanderbilt). The property offers several restaurants, a spa and extraordinary gardens which you just might be lucky enough to get a view from your room (see above for the view from mine). Staying here is a highly memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience, probably the closest you’ll feel to being royalty. It’s not far from London so you could always escape the city for a night or two to get a taste of country grandeur. 

https://www.clivedenhouse.co.uk/

England hotel, London, The Mitre Hotel

Image: The Mitre Hotel

The Mitre Hotel

East Molesey, Hampton

If you prefer luxury with a more modern feel, this is the spot for you. A historic boutique hotel located on the River Thames, the relaxed interiors blend quirky British sensibility with upscale elegance. Just under an hour drive from London, the hotel is very close to Wimbledon, making it a perfect spot to take in some tennis during your stay. 

https://www.mitrehamptoncourt.com/

England hotel, London, Heckfield Place

Image: Heckfield Place

Heckfield Place

Hampshire

A little over an hour’s drive from London, but a world away, you’ll find this country retreat, which consists of a Georgian home restored and turned into a luxury hotel nestled on 400 acres of breathtaking landscape. With a mix of antiques, bespoke pieces, and pieces from the top design brands in England, the interiors manage to walk the line between elegance and informality. Whether wandering around the grounds or getting a spa treatment, it is impossible not to find peace here. Another highlight are the restaurant and bar with dishes and drinks inspired by seasonal estate grown ingredients. 

https://www.heckfieldplace.com/ 

Where to Stay in the Midlands

 
England hotel, Midlands, Charlottes Folly Living Room

Images: Charlotte’s Folly by Christopher Horwood for House & Garden UK

England hotel, Charlotte's Folly, Midlands, blue bedroom

Image: Charlotte’s Folly via Emma Ainscough

 

Charlotte´s Folly

Weston-under-Lizard, South Staffordshire

This self-catering cottage, which is located on the grounds of a 200 acre estate, has been making the rounds on Instagram thanks to its “jewel-box interiors” by on the rise designer Emma Ainscough (per House & Garden UK). The terracotta exterior with gingerbread house architectural detail looks straight out of a storybook while the interiors are colorful and full of character. This place achieves its goal to feel like a cozy home away from home (if your home was this meticulously designed!).

https://www.uniquehomestays.com/self-catering/uk/shropshire/weston-under-lizard/charlottes-folly/ 

England hotel, Midlands, The Quist Treehouses

Image: Quist Treehouses

The Quist Treehouse

Brinsop, Herefordshire

You heard that right, you can stay in a treehouse. This is not the average kid’s treehouse, but a luxurious wood-paneled hideaway resting amongst the ancient oaks and firs. One touch I really appreciate is that they tell you in advance what equipment and pantry items are stocked in the kitchen so you can properly prepare (these include butter, sugar, jam, 6 eggs and a selection of pastries in addition to coffee and tea — when was the last time your Airbnb was this well stocked?). Great spot for families.

https://thequist.co.uk/the-quist-treehouse 

Where to Stay in the Cotswolds

England hotel, Cotswolds, Minster Mill

Image: Minster Mill

Minster Mill

Minster Lovell, Oxfordshire

If you want a touch of the English country without the traditional country interiors, this boutique hotel boasts a sleek ‘skandi’ style. One cool differentiator - the hotel is located on a river, and you can go fishing (they have a fishing lodge and provide equipment). 

https://www.minstermill.co.uk/

England hotel, Cotswolds, The Swan Inn

Image: The Swan Inn

The Swan Inn

Ascott under Wychwood, Oxfordshire

Come to this country inn and gastropub to eat and relax in an inviting atmosphere with local character. Several of the rooms have soaking tubs for extra pampering. Then feast on a menu of innovative, seasonal dishes sourced from the local area.

https://www.theswanswinbrook.co.uk/ 

England hotel, Cotwolds, Double Red Duke bathtub

Image: Double Red Duke via @aconsideredspace

Double Red Duke

Clanfield, Oxfordshire

The best way to describe the design of this inn is that it feels like a relaxed, well-appointed country home with plenty of places to curl up. There’s an excellent gastropub on premises which also includes outdoor dining in a lovely garden in warmer weather. Keep an eye out for the gin pantry. Read a more detailed review from @aconsideredspace, one of my favorite English design account. 

https://www.countrycreatures.com/double-red-duke/

Where to Stay in the South West

 
England Hotels, South West, Aller Dorset

Image: Aller Dorset via YOU Magazine

 

Aller Dorset

Dorchester, Dorset 

When I first saw this place, I couldn’t believe my eyes. Aller Dorset consists of raised huts (with stylish interiors, natch) set on a vast landscape. But the best part? An outdoor bathtub to bath under the stars. Alternatively you can swim in a nearby lake with a dock and step ladder. For convenience you can order a special pre-made fire pit supper (how good does that sound?) or hampers for breakfast or special occasions. Plus, since you’re love the interiors so much, you can purchase a selection of the pieces. 

https://www.allerdorset.com/ 

 
England hotel, South West, Glebe House Devon

Image: a guest room at Glebe House taken on a recent visit

England hotels, South West, Devon, Hotel Endsleigh

Image: a lovely sitting nook at Hotel Endsleigh photographed this past winter

 

Glebe House

Southleigh, Devon  

This guest house is modeled after agriturismo offering rooms and dining based on local, seasonal ingredients, many of them grown on site. It has become a bit of a design hotel darling thanks to its quirky English country interiors — each room is uniquely designed. Started and operated by a husband and wife (converted from his childhood home), there are so many thoughtful touches like a truly delicious cookie upon check in and an illustrated book with nearby walks. It will always be a special place as it’s where we celebrated our engagement (I might add, that took place in one of those walks!).

https://www.glebehousedevon.co.uk/ 

Hotel Endsleigh

Milton Abbot, Devon

Built by the Duke of Bedford as a hunting and fishing lodge, the grand home (built by an architect who also worked on Windsor Castle) is set on a river with breathtaking river views and classical English gardens. The rooms are updated but still nod to the house’s historical roots. You feel like you’re staying in a friend’s country estate from enjoying the grounds (with wellies provided) to afternoon tea and even an elegant dinner served in the original dining room. 

https://thepolizzicollection.com/hotel-endsleigh/ 

England Hotels, South West, Cornwall, Hotel Tresanton

Image: Hotel Tresanton

Hotel Tresanton

St Mawes, Cornwall

Owned by the proprietor of Hotel Endsleigh, this hotel perched on a seaside cliff has a bit of a French Riviera vibe. There’s a high end restaurant and a beach club that’s a bit of a scene in summer. It boasts luxurious rooms with an upscale beachy design, each with a seaside view. Plus, it’s not far from some truly exceptional beaches. 

https://thepolizzicollection.com/hotel-tresanton/ 

England hotels, South West, Cornwall, Coombshead Farm

Image: Coombeshead Farm

Coombeshead Farm

Lewannick, Cornwall 

Coombeshead Farm is another agroturismo destination offering both accommodation and fine dining. It was started by April Bloomfield (the chef behind the highly regarded Spotted Pig in New York) and another London chef inspired to serve inventive dishes made from food grown on the farm. The emphasis is on the food, not the design, but the setting on a vast farm landscape speaks for itself.

https://coombesheadfarm.co.uk/

England hotels, South West, Cornwall, The Gurnard's Head

Image: Gurnard’s Head

Gurnard’s Head 

Saint Ives, Cornwall

The Gurnard’s Head is aptly described as a dining pub with rooms, located on the furthest tip of the Cornwall peninsula with a sweeping landscape that hasn’t changed in centuries. The pub serves good food with locally sourced ingredients. The rooms are relaxed and cozy. It all comes down to simplicity done well. 

http://www.gurnardshead.co.uk/ 

Coming soon: Cottage Orne Collection

Dartmoor, Devon and Cornwall

This new project will consist of several guest houses for rent, located in Dartmoor which is a breathtaking moorland that’s protected as a national park (oh and did I mention, where wild horses roam free??). The interior design company behind Glebe House is in charge of the design, so I have every reason to believe it will be super special. 

https://www.instagram.com/cottageorne/

Where to Stay in the South East

England hotels, South East, The Rose Deal

Image: The Rose

The Rose Deal

Deal, East Kent

This former pub was converted into a seaside destination consisting of an eight-bedroom inn and restaurant serving delicious food. The bold and vibrant interiors, which consist of lots of vintage finds, are vaguely reminiscent of a Wes Anderson film, with a dash of granny chic. Whether you’re a tourist or a Londoner, it’s easy to access with a train ride from London directly to Deal.

https://therosedeal.com/ 

England hotel, South East, The Reading Room

Image: The Reading Room

The Reading Rooms

Margate, Kent

You might think this boutique bed & breakfast is in France, not England. There is not a whiff of English country decor; rather the property and rooms are decorated in an understated elegance with crisp white linens and antique French furniture. A perk I particularly love: the breakfast that’s included is served at your private dining table in your room at any time of your choice.

https://www.thereadingroomsmargate.co.uk/ 

England hotels, South East, East Sussex, The Gallivant

Image: The Gallivant

The Gallivant 

Rye, East Sussex

Voted as one of the 50 Best Boutique Hotels in the UK, this gem of a hotel could fool you into thinking you’re in California. There’s the Cali cool decor and the emphasis on wellness and of course, the location on the dunes. (There’s even daily yoga and wellness classes.) If you need a proper reset, this is your place. 

https://thegallivant.co.uk/ 

England hotels, South East, The Star

Image: The Star

The Star

Alfriston, East Sussex 

Another hotel from the Polizzi Collection, The Star is a slightly more modest affair than its sister hotels (Hotel Tresanton and Hotel Endsleigh), but it’s no less impressive. The hotel is located in a medieval village near to a river and the sea. The structure which was originally built in 1345 has been lovingly restored and decorated with a signature mix of contemporary and vintage decor. 

https://thepolizzicollection.com/the-star/  

England hotels, South East, Dot Cottage Airbnb

Image: Dot Cottage (Airbnb)

Dot Cottage 

Rye, East Essex

This is not your average Airbnb. Charming is the best word to describe it. Dot Cottage is a full on English country escape, outfitted with plenty of chintz, vintage artwork, porcelain figurines, and other cozy touches. It’s the perfect place to hunker down in colder months with a hot cup of tea by the wood burning fire.

https://abnb.me/OD3cnnnnvzb  

Where to Stay in the North

Image: North Farms

North Farm (single home)

Darlington, Durham

This place offers the unique opportunity to stay in the acclaimed interior designer Rita Konig’s elegant country farmhouse. With 7-8 bedrooms (made up with D Porthault sheets as an ultra luxurious touch) and fabulously decorated interiors, rent this home for a special occasion.

https://www.northfarmdurham.com/ 

 
Previous
Previous

15 Hacks To Make Your Home Summer-Ready

Next
Next

How to Style A Dressing Table to Add Glam Back to Getting Ready