Inspiration
Britain's finest country hotels for a summer escape
Bask in the season's warmth at these quintessential countryside retreats
There’s a particular magic to the British summer, with the landscapes in bloom and extended daylight inviting a slower pace and closer connection to nature. As the weather brightens and outdoor pursuits beckon, a stay at a luxury country hotel creates the ideal setting for a restorative break, especially if you're planning for the August Bank Holiday.
Whether your plan involves gentle walks, exploring charming villages, or simply unwinding, our pick of the best countryside hotels cater to every discerning taste. The Newt, with its unique summer collaborations, and Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons, celebrating its Michelin-starred gardens, exemplify the elevated experiences found around the UK.
Our selection highlights the finest luxury hotels in the English countryside, combining a rural aesthetic with chances to fully embrace the season's delights, from garden tours to alfresco dining.
Coworth Park, Berkshire
Set within 240 acres of Ascot countryside, Coworth Park is the place for a well-rounded rural escape for families this summer. The estate provides numerous pursuits during the warmest months, from archery and tennis to falconry and horseback riding, as well as pony experiences for all ages from the hotel's equestrian centre. Just in time for summer, Coworth Park's spa has been renovated to work in harmony with the surrounding countryside and welcomes children with dedicated swimming, while parents unwind. Children can also enjoy their own seven-room playhouse.
The Newt, Somerset
This summer, celebrated estate The Newt presents a fashionable partnership with Burberry that embodies the essence of a British summer. The collaboration weaves special design elements into experiences across its expansive 2,000-acre grounds. You can explore the magnificent gardens via golf buggies, where a recognisable check pattern is mown into the croquet lawn. A Burberry Check hot-air balloon is an excellent way to see the estate from above, alongside curated installations and a boutique stocking summer pieces.
Heckfield Place, Hampshire
Just under an hour from London, Heckfield Place offers an idyllic summer escape in 438 acres of Hampshire estate. This season, you can embrace the outdoors with picnics following leisurely boat trips on the lower lake, or try your hand at guided fishing sessions. Summer evenings unfold beautifully on restaurant Marle's light-filled outdoor terrace, where seasonally led menus feature highlights such as wild John Dory. For quiet contemplation, The Bothy by Wildsmith provides a space for wellbeing, connecting you with the natural surroundings through bespoke treatments.
Cowley Manor Experimental, Cotswolds
For summer 2025, Cowley Manor Experimental presents open-air cinema evenings on its top lawn, a delightful way to watch movies under the stars. You can settle in for a curated mix of cult classics and popular films, with cosy seating and refreshments served. This year's programme includes Top Gun, Wicked and Mamma Mia, making for memorable summer nights in the country. Away from the cinema screen, the hotel's well-manicured gardens and serene pool area provide a wonderful backdrop for sunlit days.
The Grove, Hertfordshire
Perfect for stays during a heatwave, The Grove has unveiled its redesigned Walled Garden by Martin Hulbert Design. The transformed space now encourages you to relax and enjoy its playful spirit. Highlights include a revamped heated outdoor pool, a reimagined Ralph's Beach featuring statement daybeds, a stylish new bar and an outdoor spa treatment area. And when you're in need of pampering, the Sequoia Spa has a range of luxurious treatments by Bamford and Natura Bissé.
Beaverbrook Hotel & Spa, Surrey
This summer, Beaverbrook reintroduces its unique hot air balloon dining in the Italian Garden. Six stationary balloons, with Summerill & Bishop designs, set the scene for alfresco Japanese Yakiniku barbecue. Here, you can savour authentic, interactive cuisine from a well-curated selection, centred around a Yakiniku grill. Paired with bespoke Silent Pool Gin cocktails and curated wines, the experience takes you on a magical journey within a captivating summer setting.
Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel, Oxfordshire
Le Manoir, with its two Michelin stars and garden-to-table ethos, shines in the summer months. New cocktails, inspired by its 11 gardens, include refreshing mango-lemon verbena and a savoury raspberry-tomato blend. A new three-course summer lunch presents fresh flavours. For alfresco enjoyment, a Veuve Clicquot picnic welcomes you to its tranquil gardens. The King’s Rose is also new for summer 2025. This unique striped variety of rose was created by David Austin Roses as a tribute to King Charles III. Its distinct fuchsia and white petals can be viewed in the new rose bed.
Chewton Glen, Hampshire
Distinguished country house Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa, located between the New Forest and the Dorset coast, has revealed a redesign of its restaurant, bar and drawing rooms, perfectly timed for summer. This refresh honours its enduring character while introducing a contemporary elegance and drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape. Beyond the refreshed interiors, the extensive estate provides a renowned spa, a cookery school and charming treehouse suites, making it an excellent destination for the warmer months.
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