Lords of the Manor.

The Lords of the Manor is a haven for those afflicted with the deeply unfashionable desire to do nothing but sink into a large sofa with a drink and a book. You won't find a gym, a jogging track or a jacuzzi here.

Some guests have been known, occasionally, to break into a brisk walk within the gardens. At certain times of day, the noise levels in the restaurant and bar will reflect the convivial effect of fine food and wine. You might strain to overhear a hot tip for tomorrow's races at Cheltenham. But that may well be the extent of your exertions.

Service here takes its cue from the idyllic surrounds. Without intruding on the peace and relaxation of your stay, you will find that a warming drink, a newspaper and a menu are always close to hand.

Executive Chef Matt Weedon and his team focus on quality ingredients sourced from local suppliers whenever possible. The rambling cellars hold a wide selection of fine wines from the new world and the more established wine producing areas. With an extensive selection of fine Italian wines, choose from over 200 new bins with favourites such as Barolo and Brunello di Montalcino plus lesser known wines from the smaller Italian wineries and the boutique wineries in Sicily.

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Dormy House.

The privately owned Dormy House sits high on a hill in the heart of the Cotswolds, between the charming villages of Broadway and Chipping Campden. This is a lived-in, much-loved bolthole where nothing is too much trouble. Crisp bedlinen and plump pillows add to the feeling of comfort. Choose from the elegant rooms and suites of the main house, or the Danish Court rooms, with their flower-filled patios and landscaped garden. Newly refurbished deluxe double rooms have modern features, such as flat screen televisions, broadband and scene-setting lighting. The eight suites have large separate living areas and offer views over the hotel's grounds. Dormy House also has a fine selection of four-poster bedrooms.

In the kitchen, high quality, locally sourced produce is transformed into simple yet elegant dishes where the flavours of the key ingredients shine through, and served alongside wine from the world's leading regions.

Work on your well being in the sauna / steam room or gym. Play traditional bar billiards in
the games room. Practise your skills on the nine-hole putting green or croquet lawn

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Calcot Manor Hotel & Spa.

The golden Cotswold stone of this charming manor - originally a farmhouse - creates an atmosphere of solidity and tranquillity. The outbuildings have been transformed to complement the main house. Calcot Spa, with its pool, sauna, steam room, gym and hot tub, offers a wide range of treatments. A medieval barn has been restored to create The Barn at Calcot, a self-contained venue for weddings and business meetings.

With a wealth of interesting places surrounding Calcot - the historic city of Bath, the ancient wool towns of the Cotswolds and the Cotswold Way footpath, the hotel is a perfect place from which to explore. Antique-hunting in nearby towns can absorb many enjoyable hours, as can walking or relaxing by the pool or a log fire.

There are two restaurants at Calcot: the pub-style Gumstool Inn and the elegant Conservatory Restaurant, offering very different dining experiences.

Calcot Manor warmly welcomes families with children, and special facilities are offered to ensure their comfort and entertainment while not intruding on the enjoyment of other hotel guests.

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Lake Country House and Spa.

This welcoming Welsh country house is set in its own 50 acres, with rhododendron-lined pathways, riverside walks and a well-stocked trout lake. The grounds are a haven for wildlife... herons, dippers and kingfishers can often be seen skimming over the river. There are resident badgers in the wood, and swans and waterfowl abound. Overlooking these lovely surroundings, the hotel's airy rooms are filled with antiques, paintings and fresh flowers.

Each of the bedrooms and suites is furnished with thoughtful attention to detail. From the windows, ducks and geese can be glimpsed wandering in the gardens - carpeted with daffodils in the spring - which cascade down
to the river. Guests can fish for trout or salmon on four miles of the River Irfon and on the three acre lake.

The new spa is a haven for luxury and relaxation. It boasts a 50 feet indoor pool, a fully equipped gym, sauna and hot tub with fabulous views over the lake. Qualified therapists offer a range of health and beauty treatments. There's a nine-hole golf course, tennis court, croquet lawn and billiards room

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Kilworth House.

Kilworth House Hotel is a breath of fresh air - an enchanting blend of Victorian opulence, fine food and contemporary luxury set in 38 acres of landscaped south Leicestershire parkland. This glorious Grade II listed Italianate country house was built as a family home towards the end of the 19th century for John Entwistle, the High Sheriff of Leicestershire. The house lies at the end of an inviting, tree-lined approach, and broad lawns in front of the south-facing façade lead the eye out towards distant fields.

Kilworth House Hotel also has a fantastic Outdoor Theatre www.kilworthhousetheatre.co.uk that has been built in a beautiful wooded glade close to the lake in the grounds. The auditorium has a maximum capacity of 540 comfortable, padded seats in tiered rows, all of which provide a superb view of the stage area. A magnificent sail-like canopy provides protection for the whole audience and stage area against adverse weather. A state-of-the-art lighting and sound system has been installed in keeping with our intention to present professional productions and entertainment of the highest quality. Bar facilities and seating areas are provided within the theatre area which will be open one hour before the show.

Inside, period furnishings add to the grandeur of four-poster bedrooms, creating a timeless elegance that is natural and as disarming as the smile that greets you at the door. Kilworth House Hotel offers you a choice of three beautiful reception rooms, where you can share a bottle of wine with friends, relax with a cup of coffee and a newspaper, or curl up with a good book and a fine old Cognac. You'll be doing what generations of residents have done before you.

Chef Carl Dovey revels in fresh ingredients, big flavours and imaginative combinations. His inventive cuisine draws diners from across the East Midlands to Kilworth House.

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Bodysgallen Hall and Spa.

Bodysgallen Hall & Spa is a delightful country house hotel situated in 200 acres of wooded parkland on a hill above the Victorian seaside town of Llandudno. With 13th-century origins, the Main Hall enjoys magnificent views of Conwy Castle and the mountains of Snowdonia. Amidst Bodysgallen Hall's magnificent gardens and parkland are a rare 17th-century parterre, a rockery with a cascade, a walled garden and several follies.

In addition to extremely comfortable accommodation, the hotel has two restaurants, The Dining Room, which holds 3AA Rosettes, and a bistro called 1620, named after the oldest build-date of the Main Hall. Imaginative food is prepared by the award-winning chef using fresh local produce whenever available.
Bodysgallen's Spa, reached by a short walk through the gardens, was converted from an original stone-built farmhouse. It contains a magnificent 50-foot swimming pool, five treatment rooms, a relaxation room, whirlpool spa bath, steam room and sauna. The gymnasium has a wide range of equipment for all levels of fitness.

In September 2008 Bodysgallen Hall became the property of the National Trust by donation, with all profits benefitting the house and the charity.

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Holbeck Ghyll

With a magnificent view of Lake Windermere and the Langdale Fells, Holbeck Ghyll is idyllic in any season, surrounded by the natural beauty of Cumbria. Its Michelin-star restaurant overlooks lake and mountains, as do many bedrooms in the main house and the nearby Lodge. Some of the spacious suites have been designed for families, while the luxurious Miss Potter Suite is perfect for that romantic special occasion - a detached suite with a private terrace and hot tub.

Holbeck Ghyll is ideally situated for exploring the attractions of the breathtaking Lake District. Built in the 19th century, the house was bought as a hunting lodge in 1888 by Lord Lonsdale, then one of the richest men in the country, whose name went down in history when he bequeathed the Lonsdale Belt to boxing. His lodge was set in the incomparable landscape of the Lake District, overlooking one of England's loveliest stretches of water - Windermere.

Relaxation at Holbeck Ghyll can take the form of walking or boating, golf or bird watching...
or indulging in a range of facilities and treatments available at the spa.

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Von Essen hotels

Welcome to von Essen hotels, a private collection of individual country house hotels in the UK and France, each with a distinctive style and character.

The von Essen collection of renowned luxury hotels, luxury country house hotels and luxury family hotels in England, Scotland, Wales and France, is unique and offers a variety of stunning historic properties, each of distinctive character - from the small and intimate to the grand and gracious.

Each country house hotel offers a unique luxury experience with its own individual personality, unique features and impressive location. Together, they form a unique collection of luxury hotels: luxury country hotels, town houses and castle hotels in England, Scotland, Wales and France in five sets: Classic, Country, Continental, Metropolitan and Luxury Family.

The elegance of the interiors, both historic and contemporary, the excellence of the food across the collection, the high standard of accommodation and glorious settings all combine to create the most distinguished collection of luxury, country house hotels in the UK and France

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Castlebay Hotel

Spellbinding beauty and great seafood on the edge of the Atlantic

What could be more romantic or adventurous than touching down in a De Havilland Twin Otter on Cocklestrand beach on the magical island of Barra. The island lies at the southern end of the Western Isles - a spellbinding place where you'll find often deserted pure white sand beaches, turquoise waters, abundant wildlife and numerous archaeological remains which give an insight into the island's fascinating history dating back to the Vikings. Since 1880, Castlebay Hotel has been the premier hotel on Barra, providing a comfortable and welcoming base from which to explore the island. It is situated above the bay with unforgettable views of Kisimul Castle and neighbouring Island of Vatersay. The bright bedrooms, mostly with tartan drapes and throws, provide a cosy retreat after a wild day on the edge of the Atlantic. You will taste some of the finest seafood here which is landed off local boats. Uist Salmon, wild boar and venison make it on to the menu too. The adjacent Castlebay Bar is a fantastically atmospheric hostelry (established in 1911 to serve the herring fishermen) where you can hear local tales and sometimes enjoy live Scottish music. Activities you can undertake on Barra include walking, swimming, sea-kayaking, golf, fishing, exploring archaeological sites and taking boat trips in the summer to see the nearby, uninhabited islands. This is a place that will leave an indelible impression.

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The Inn at Inverbeg

Among the numerous plaudits that have come its way, The Inn at Inverbeg has been described as a 'roadside blessing'. It is a particularly apt description, because this is just the kind of intimate, friendly and superbly positioned small hotel every traveller dreams of finding. Thirty minutes from Glasgow, bordering Rob Roy country and the Trossachs, the Inn at Inverbeg offers a lochside location... More About Inn at Inverbeg second to none, just three miles north of the picturesque village of Luss and with stunning views east across the loch to the island of Inchlonaig and off to the distant peaks of Ben Lomond and Ben Vrakie. Following its recent multi-million pound renovation, the Inn is stylish and contemporary while retaining all the traditional charm of its 200 year old heritage. The comfortable guest rooms blend rustic style and local materials in tasteful colours to create a warm and inviting ambiance. Mr C's Fish and Whisky Bar and Restaurant serves delicious seafood, Buccleuch burgers and steaks, and what many describe as the best fish and chips in Scotland. The Amberspa, located at a sister property only five minutes' drive away, is a perfect place to unwind and includes a 16m swimming pool, sauna, steam room and a variety of spa treatments. Nearby enjoy exploring the majestic mountains, rugged woodlands and blue loch waters, as well as opportunities for a huge range of outdoor pursuits, including golf, horse riding, 4x4 driving, shooting, quad bikes, jet skiing, cruising and fishing.

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Norwood Hall

Just three miles from central Aberdeen, Norwood Hall is the perfect place from which to explore Royal Deeside and the cosmopolitan and exciting city of Aberdeen. The handsome 1887 mansion house has been thoughtfully renovated and extended with every care taken to retain its Victorian character. The most striking architectural feature is the magnificent double staircase in the hallway (Scotland's answer to Gone with the Wind and very popular for wedding photographs!), while the impressive and traditional Georgian Bar overlooks the landscaped grounds. There is fine dining in the Tapestry Restaurant, where the head chef mixes fresh local produce with tantalising new ideas, or guests can enjoy light snacks in the informality of the bar. For a special treat, why not stay in one of the nine high-ceilinged Victorian bedrooms with bay windows and maybe a four poster bed for the romantically inclined? The hotel prides itself on rising to the occasion and makes a terrific venue for all manner of special events from weddings to conferences. The newly refurbished meeting rooms cater for groups from four to 220, and the dedicated staff are fully versed in preparing for anything from a board meeting to a dinner dance or a Haggis Hunt.

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Llys Meddyg Newport, Pembrokeshire, UK

 



A hotel room - and bathroom - I could happily live in... and fine food where taste is at the heart of every dish. Western Mail, August 2009

A Georgian wonderland of elegance and chic in spellbinding Pembrokeshire

Hidden under the spellbinding Mountain of Angels and surrounded by the beaches, rivers, woods and mountains of the breathtaking Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Llys Meddyg is a beautiful Georgian townhouse that blends the magic of this timeless corner of Wales with contemporary elegance. Revive in the bracing sea air, unwind by the crackling log fire, indulge in sensational modern Welsh...cooking and nestle into your soft woolly blanket woven a stone's throw away. Stylish, bright and brimming with light, the bedrooms at Llys Meddyg are immaculately appointed and adorned with unique paintings by local artists. Spoil yourself with a luxurious monsoon shower before enjoying the famous Llys Meddyg fresh fruit pancakes in the peaceful garden. For something more substantial, head chef Scott Davies creates stunning seasonal dishes using the abundance of local ingredients for you to savour in the chic dining room or the cosy cellar bar. Try the salmon, cured right on the premises and served with spring onion blini and horseradish cream, or Carmarthen Bay mussels in a saffron broth, or the Teifi sewin accompanied by rhubarb compote and minted garden peas. A land that has remained the same for thousands of years, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is a haven of leisurely pursuits - be it for walkers, birdwatchers or nature lovers - and an adventure wonderland for horse-riding, mountain biking and kayaking.

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The Elmfield Hotel

 

Fresh air and family values in a trendy boutique setting

Owners Matt and Zoe Brewer are the inspiration behind this heavenly hotel where today's families can experience the simplicity of holidays of yesteryear - yet in a trendy boutique setting. Set in a lovingly restored Victorian villa, Elmsfield has all the facilities of a luxury hotel but the warm atmosphere of a family friendly home. With a young family themselves, they inherently know what parents want and therefore have struck the right balance. Endearingly, they encourage family dining, yet also offer some grown-ups-only time with baby listening offered free of charge. The food is first class and unfussy and talented Head Chef, Tom Frost, uses mostly organic, local Devonshire produce. The Elmfield is essentially about promoting the simple things in life - fresh air, home-cooking, making friends, quality time with the family and longed for freedom and time apart. Bedrooms are styled in designer fabrics with glamorous accessories and some have fine coastal views. A heated indoor pool, gym, sauna, Jacuzzi, indoor games and a pool table makes it completely wet-weather proof. In the evenings the lounge becomes a private cinema and during the school holidays various activities and workshops are organised. And for the adults, in-room aromatherapy and massage treatments are on offer.

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The Oxenham Arms

An historic coaching inn near Dartmoor, in one of Devon's prettiest villages

Perched on the edge of Dartmoor at the centre of one of Devon's prettiest villages, The Oxenham Arms was built in the 12th century and is one of the oldest inns in England. Set in its own gardens, an Elizabethan time-traveller would find many features unchanged - massive granite walls, heavy oak beams, low ceilings, granite mullion windows, great open fires, even the old carp-holding well in the..garden. Climb the oak staircase and you arrive at the seven beautifully proportioned bedrooms which combine treasured antiques and modern comforts, from Egyptian cotton sheets to bed throws using wool from the hotel's own Hebridean sheep. Burgoynes Restaurant is situated in the evocative Great Hall, and features wonderful food, beautifully cooked and stylishly presented. Relax in The Green Room, the new beauty therapy room which offers a wonderful menu of treatments from Indian head massage to aromatherapy. Surrounded by splendid walking country, this is an ideal base for exploring Dartmoor, the coasts of Devon, Castle Drogo, and over 30 National Trust properties in the region.

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Mount Haven Hotel

Bathed in the delicate scent of incense and the soft, inviting glow of Cornish sunlight, Mount Haven Hotel is an idyll of peace and tranquillity in an area of unparalleled beauty. Perched below the stunning St Michael's Mount as it rises out of the azure bay below, Mount Haven Hotel is an inspired fusion of Eastern flair and Western chic. An oasis of ambience and comfort, the hotel's light, airy interiors are adorned with fresh flowers, tapestries from Jaipur, caskets from Bhutan and figurines from Nepal, Bali and India. Mount Haven's bedrooms are individually furnished with sumptuous fabrics, exotic art, luxury mattresses, flat-screen TVs and each offer their own private garden or a balcony with views of the breathtaking scenery outside. New for 2010, all sea facing room with have new large picture windows and large balconies. The emphasis of Mount Haven's restaurant menu is on simplicity and quality, brought to the fore by the exceptional organic fish, meats and cheeses of the surrounding area. The Mount Haven healing suite offers a wide range of treatments - including Indian head massage, Reiki, reflexology, hot stones and aromatherapy with essential oils - to leave you completely revitalised. Located near the tip of Cornwall, the area remains uncrowded and unspoiled by the ravages of mass tourism. A short stroll from Mount Haven is the picturesque village of Marazion, a treasure trove of shops and galleries, and beyond are the spectacular cliffs, coastal paths, coves and beaches that make this area so beautiful and unique

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Le Manoir Aux Quat Saisons

Le Manoir Aux Quait Saisons is the brain child of the stunning Raymond Blanc. He envisioned a hotel where his guests would be guaranteed a stunning atmosphere, spectacular service, unbridled comfort, and incredible cuisine. The end result is nothing short of magnificent

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Fullers Hotels

When a beer producer turns its attention to providing accommodation one may be excused for raising an eye brow if, that is you can perform such a trick.  Fullers turned the business around many years ago when they started to display signs for the gentleman traveller.  As history has it, during the rise of Fullers brewery and it’s move into the Hotel business was nothing more than a natural progression.  The mere fact they have been delivery top notch hotels services in both their hotels and inns over the last 50 years is testament to Fullers success.
Fuller’s operate six hotels in the Southern part of the UK. Welcomed by exemplary service in a relaxing atmosphere.
Is it surprising that you’ll be tempted with their cask conditioned ales such as Fullers London Pride. The food and wines are meticulously selected to a higher standard than you would expect from what is a traditional brewer and pub business. That said Fuller’s venues never let you down. They combine a time honoured British theme with all mod cons. The hotels are well located with easy access to public transportation.

Fullers Country Pubs & Inns

In addition to the Hotels Fullers they provide traditional accommodation in a number of our country pubs, often in idyllic village locations. Whilst this was a popular activity for Londoners during the last 10 years, escaping to a country pub for the weekend has recently taken a back seat to day tripping. But it has to be said, there really is no better way than to escape for the weekend to a country pub. The problem now is the choice. There are so many last minute deals which includes flying out the country! Whether you decide to stay in the UK for a weekend break (or mid week) – the perfect way to take time out and experience the English countryside couldn’t be done better than by doing it!
Fullers Hotels are situated in London and the Southern Counties. In addition there are 16 country inns that provide accommodation.
If you are planning to visit London, or a picturesque village in the South of England it’s recommended to book in advance and where possible contact the hotel direct as room rates will be variable

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Nelson Hotels Cheshire

The three hotels owned and operated by the Nelson family have landed on top yet again and this is by no mistake.  The refurbishment of the Bears Paw last year was a massive challenge not just in economic times but against the back drop of tourism figures dropping in the region.
Cheshire is a location that attracts visitors from all walks of life due to the dynamic countryside and breath taking landscapes.
Under the new Taste Cheshire accreditation scheme, Ciro’s Brasserie at the Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa, the Bear’s Paw and the Pheasant Inn have all been rated “Highest Quality Assured”, which is the highest rating available.
Ciro’s Brasserie, which serves modern European and Mediterranean cuisine, was praised for its stylish and well maintained interior and friendly management. It received a rating of 87%.
The Bear’s Paw, a five-star gastro inn in the village of Warmingham, re-opened last year with 14 boutique rooms following a £2m restoration project. It has gone on to become a firm favourite with locals and tourists alike.
Taste Cheshire gave the restaurant a rating of 84% and was impressed by the use of locally sourced produce.
The Pheasant Inn, which enjoys some of the best views in the county from its spot in the Peckforton Hills, was rated 85%.
Assessors highlighted its stunning position and well presented exterior, in addition to the menu which boasts dishes including local Delamere asparagus, vine tomato and red onion tart with baked goats cheese and raspberry brulee with shortbread.
The three restaurants, owned by the family-run company Nelson (NorthWest) Hotels, were visited anonymously by Taste Cheshire assessors.
Harold Nelson, director of Nelson (North West) Hotels, said:
“These ratings are testament to the hard work of our team.  I am pleased the assessors have recognised the efforts we make in providing outstanding hospitality across all of our venues.”
Each restaurant was judged on the quality of the exterior and interior, cleanliness, service, the quality of the food and the use of locally sourced produce from Cheshire and the North West.
The Taste Cheshire quality assessment scheme is owned by Visit Britain and operated by Quality in Tourism, Visit Britain’s assessing body.
For more information for any of the Nelson hotels please find details below.
Nelson (Northwest) Hotels Ltd.
Located in the heart of Cheshire. Nelson North West is a family run company operating three establishments.

The Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa

This privately owned Chester hotel & spa is ideally located just a 5 minute drive south of the city centre, yet a stone’s throw from the border of North Wales.
Call Tel. 01244 570 560
The 4 star Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa is set in its own grounds and is the perfect base from which to explore the many exciting attractions and great days out that Chester, Cheshire and North Wales have to offer.

The Pheasant Inn

Tucked in a peaceful corner of rural Cheshire, The Pheasant enjoys some of the most magnificent panoramic views in the area.
Nestling in the Peckforton Hills, this is a rambler’s and hiker’s paradise.
Call Tel. 01829 770 434
A relaxing country retreat to escape from the hustle of city life or for a quiet romantic weekend. Whether you come to drink, dine or unwind for a few days, this atmospheric location will quickly have you under its spell!

The Bear’s Paw

Located in the heart of Cheshire, in the picturesque village of Warmingham, The Bear»s Paw is a delightful 19th century character inn.
Call Tel. 01270 526 317
This charming, yet stylish gastro inn is strategically placed between the major market towns of Sandbach, Middlewich and Crewe, and easily accessible from the M6, making The Bear»s Paw the ideal base from which to explore the many delights which Cheshire has to offer.

The Nare Hotel

A privately owned 4 red star luxury hotel
 


The Nare is a privately owned elegant country house hotel with the family ever present and personally involved. In 1989 Mrs Bettye Gray bought the hotel and set about creating a standard of luxury hitherto unavailable in Cornwall. Over the last decade Bettye's grandson, the hotel's current owner, Toby Ashworth has maintained a traditional feeling of unstuffy elegance. This is not a designer hotel. It's a comfortable place to relax and unwind away from the cares of the world - enjoy afternoon cream tea, read the papers and snooze in a comfy sofa before dining in style in one of the hotel's two sea view restaurants.
As well as beautifully decorated rooms and stunning sea views, The Nare has everything you need for a great holiday. An indoor and an outdoor swimming pool , tennis courts, a health and beauty spa, a croquet lawn, a billiards room and a hot tub overlooking a perfect Cornish beach - everyone can find something to entertain them here.  Enjoy the beach, walk the coastal path, take in the natural beauty of Cornwall and you have a perfect location for a long or short break at any time of the year.
As Cornwall's only four red star hotel you will find the staff at The Nare friendly and welcoming and ready to look after you. They excel in good old fashioned service and are always on hand to ensure that everything you need is in place for a perfect stay. Their high standards have ensured The Nare has remained the highest rated hotel in Cornwall for over fifteen years with many guests returning regularly to relax and enjoy this special place.
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