Best country hotels and manor houses in the UK to stay in 2023

Whether you’re gliding down a sweeping staircase, sipping cocktails on the terrace or reclining for post-dinner drinks, a night in a country house hotel is an easy way to inject some glamour and relaxation into your life.

But not all manor house hotels are created equal. Some offer luxurious, cosseting experiences, like facials, spa treatments and full-body massages, or five-star services like valet parking, where your car (no matter how messy it is) is spirited away the second you step from it. Others are smaller and more affordable – family-run perhaps – with access to great walking and fine food.

At most country house hotels you can expect period features, a fireplace or two, a good-quality restaurant, gardens to explore and a fabulous rural location.

Here, we select our favourite manor house hotels across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland for different types of breaks in the UK, for everyone from couples to families.

Best manor house hotels in England

Location: Hampshire

Covered in wisteria, Lime Wood Hotel leaves guests staying in its 33 bedrooms feeling thoroughly spoiled. Set in the heart of the New Forest, the multi-level spa has sylvan views from all angles, including from the sauna. There is a lap pool indoors, while outside is a steaming hot pool with loungers and a rooftop herb garden to relax in. Dine on dreamy Italian food from celebrity chef Angela Hartnett or try the Raw & Cured food bar for something different. Admire the black-and-white floor tiles from a bar stool in the courtyard or retire to one of a range of sumptuous suites, including a lakeside cabin.

Doubles from £405.

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Location: Yorkshire

Located in the gently rolling hills of the Yorkshire Wolds, this ivy-clad mansion has neat Georgian proportions, sweeping lawns and little luxuries like Bramley toiletries, all at an affordable price. The house is family-run and service has a personal touch. The 21 bedrooms are spread over the main house, former stables and cottages. Modern country house interiors feature statement chairs and patterned neutrals. The hotel restaurant serves local produce with panache, while the lounge bar has button-back chairs by the fireside for a nightcap. Outside lies 20 acres of gardens and woodland.