50+ wonderful waterside stays to book this summer
Booking a summer staycay? From buzzing city hotels to super-cool coastal boltholes, these are the best seaside, lakeside, and riverside getaways across the Muddy counties – nab ‘em while they’re hot.
BEDFORDSHIRE BUCKINGHAMSHIRE CAMBRIDGESHIRE CORNWALL DERBYSHIRE DEVON DORSET ESSEX GLOUCESTERSHIRE HAMPSHIRE ISLE OF WIGHT HERTFORDSHIRE KENT LEICESTERSHIRE NORFOLK NORTHAMPTONSHIRE NOTTINGHAMSHIRE OXFORDSHIRE RUTLAND SOMERSET SUFFOLK SUSSEX WARWICKSHIRE WEST MIDLANDS WORCESTERSHIRE
BUCKINGHAMSHIRE
Hartwell House, Aylesbury
Crowned Best Hotel in the Muddy Bucks and Oxon Awards 2023, this idyllic lakeside retreat certainly lives up to its accolades. Set on 90 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland, you can take your pick from 48 rooms (some of which are pet-friendly) and enjoy vistas of the lake which sits on your doorstep. Whether you’re after romantic R&R or travelling with tiny tots, the huge grounds are ideal for circular walks around the lake, sightings of statues, and visiting the sought-after (by historians and tourists alike) Egyptian Well. If you get a hankering to splash around, you can book The Old Rectory which has a private swimming pool and secluded gardens, or head to the indoor spa pool and baths.
OXFORDSHIRE
Minster Mill, Witney
Gather the fam, fishing hooks and all, this lakeside escape offers plenty of family-friendly fun sure to tire the kids out. Sitting on the bank of River Windrush, with its endless species of fish, you can try your hand at tennis, fishing, or wind down with walks around the 65 acres of grounds. For around the clock Riverside views, opt for the minimalist-chic Feature Rooms which boast plenty of natural light, a private terrace, and a log burner or fire pit (who can say no to a cozy evening of marshmallow roasting?) Quench your splashing appetite with a visit to The Garden Spa’s indoor swimming pool, while you’re at it, squeeze in a massage – it’ll be our little secret.
BEDFORDSHIRE
The Kingfisher, Bedford
This recently renovated riverside pub, (formerly The Barns Hotel), has 49 rooms and sits right on the River Great Ouse. While away your stay on the terrace watching the wildlife with a Prosecco or macchiato in hand, take a boat trip, wander to Priory Country Park with its pretty marina, and enjoy some tasty local fare from the pub kitchen and dining room, which has been stylishly redesigned, with some watery touches.
The Waterfront Hotel, Wyboston
With its luxurious spa 18-hole golf course, gastro brasserie and cool work spaces, this lakeside bolthole sits within the 380-acre countryside resort of Wyboston Lakes. Following a recent refresh, there’s a new spa café bistro, new-look restaurant and bar, The Gravel Pit (pictured), and a cool outdoor beach space if you’re planning a work stay (that won’t feel like work!). You’ll feel world’s away from it all here.
BERKSHIRE
The Swan at Streatley, Streatley on Thames
The Swan at Streatley is arguably the perfect riverside staycay. Stunning location, with long towpath walks (a short stroll from George Michael’s Goring home), and you can hire a boat, paddleboard or wild swim right outside your hotel. Following a super-stylish refurb, this hotel is a design maven’s dream. Boutique rooms for quality zzz’s and the cool Coppa Club for dining. Request a riverside room, some face the church, an overnight stay plus full Coppa Club breakfast (based on two sharing) costs from £110.
The Great House, Sonning
Fancy spending the night with George Clooney? OK, so he won’t actually be in the same room, but he’s within flashing distance of The Great House in Sonning – a fun, funky, riverside hotel. Boats pootle past with comforting regularity and weeping willows wafting in the breeze. Sounds idyllic, right? That’s because it is. Book a private charter on a luxurious launch and experience the Thames in or simply eat, drink and watch the watery world go by. There’s Bed and Breakfast and Supper and Stay deals on offer.
CAMBRIDGESHIRE
The Graduate Hotel, Cambridge
Although it has the River Cam meandering straight through it, bizarrely, Cambridge doesn’t actually have many places to stay by the water. Thankfully The Graduate, the only city centre hotel on the river, is super stylish with plenty of elegant riverside view rooms to the back. This boutique beauty also has stunning interiors with fun punting-inspired touches, a fine dining restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows, and a glorious garden that borders a popular part of the river where punts glide by and views of Sheep’s Green and Coe Fen nature reserve across the way.
Cambridgeshire Lakes, Gamlingay
Lakeside living doesn’t get much better than this – four beautifully-furnished lodges set around a picturesque lake in west Cambridgeshire. Everything has been designed to make the most of the water here, from purposefully low bedroom windows so you can wake up and enjoy lake views as you sip your morning coffee to bi-folds that lead out onto a spacious decked area with outdoor seating and a private hot tub.
CORNWALL
Lewinnick Lodge, Newquay
A bit of a hidden gem, just south of the main town of Newquay, marking the SW end of Fistral, stands the East Pentire headland, home to restaurant with rooms, Lewinnick Lodge emerging from the craggy cliffs. Quiet and rugged, and yet just a few minutes by car (or 20-minute walk) from the town centre. Book room 1 for dramatic view in two directions, right from the surfers at Fistral round to the wildflower covered headland below, where the sound of the waves against the rocks will lull you to sleep.
Pengelly Retreat, Nr Hayle
Not all Cornish waterside stays need to coastal. Luxury lakeside getaway Pengelly Retreat is set in a tranquil and unspoilt rural location between the north and south coasts of Cornwall, near to Hayle. Hidden away in five acres of rolling meadows, lakes, and gardens the retreat has two very private and exclusive lakeside properties, available to hire either individually or as part of full property booking. Wild swimmers can bathe directly from the pontoon, and on offer too is yoga on a SUP! Adults only.
Abbot’s Loft, Falmouth
Book this property to include 15-18 August and you can watch the world famous Tall Ships race unfurl from an enviable prime position on Falmouth’s waterfront. Acting as Host Port for the Tall Ships Races Magellan-Elcano 2023, the parade of sail and then the race itself will start just outside the window! Sleeping six across three bedrooms, Abbot’s Loft is one of the oldest buildings in this part of historic Falmouth and has a rich and varied past including a life seen by artists, sailmakers and milliners. At high tide the water laps against the wall, while low tide reveals your very own beach. With simple yet comfortable interiors, featuring panelled walls, arched windows, and wooden flooring, Abbot’s Loft is an idyllic hideaway with a bohemian soul and historic spirit – will you find the secret room? Dog friendly. Bookable through Cornish Holiday Cottages.
DEVON
The Lookout Tower, Beer
Want a waterside stay with a difference, a total one-off? This former 18th century signal station overlooking the sea at Beer Head has been lovingly transformed into an incredible two-bed stay, with astonishing sea views. You feel like a lighthouse keeper but with all the mod cons of underfloor heating, wet room and Neff white goods. Plus, a high-tech pneumatic vacuum lift which has to be seen and experienced to be believed! Step outside, to bliss out in the Scandi-Style sauna and, beyond that, there’s 95-miles of Jurassic Coast ideal for beach-combers, walkers and day-dreamers.
Byron Woolacombe Holidays, Woolacombe
Less than five minutes’ amble to the family-friendly sands of Woolacombe Beach in North Devon, you’ll find this stylish apartment, complete with fabulous sea and valley views. Sleeping from two to eight guests, these contemporary pads come with a choice of terraces or balconies, exclusive access to a heated onsite pool, a sauna, games room and gym, so you’ll be kept busy – and kids won’t dare get bored.
Saunton Sands Hotel, Saunton
Get away from it all at this fabulous beach hotel on the North Devon coast, complete with spa, swimming pools and did I mention the free childcare? Part of the Brend Hotels group, this 74-bedroom hotel has two pools and the vibe of elegant ocean liner, with sea-facing views, and miles of golden sands and dunes to explore on the doorstep. There are two restaurants – both formal and informal, plus a games room and playroom for kids and – the jewel in the crown – an ocean-inspired three-storey spa where you can relax without them.
DERBYSHIRE
Rafters at Riverside House, Ashford-in-the-Water
Fancy a foodie weekend by the river? This 14-bedroom restaurant with rooms on the River Wye needs to be on your radar. With a mention in last year’s Michelin Guide, five AA gold stars, two AA rosettes and sister of the iconic Rafters Restaurant in Sheffield, it’s foodie heaven. The lovely bedrooms inside the honey-stoned Georgian mansion underwent a refurb in 2020 and many overlook the gardens and river. Want the best view? Stay in the pretty Kingfisher bedroom. From £230 for bed and breakfast.
The Croft at Waterside Cottages, Carsington Water
Gather the gang for a weekend of watersports, Peak District walks and bike rides (including a flattish, family-friendly 8-mile trail around the lake) at this lovely 16-bed lakeside self-catering house. A handy little lane leads you straight to Carsington Water for sailing, kayaking and paddleboarding fun before coming back to a BBQ in the lovely lakeside garden. Three nights in June from £1,750.
DORSET
Sydling Brook Lodge, near Dorchester
Wake up to the sound of birdsong and a babbling brook at this luxury wooden lodge sleeping four on the edge of Langford Lake, about five miles outside Dorchester and 16 miles from the Jurassic Coast. Go for walks, fish in the lake, head to the beach, fire up the barbie and watch the sun go down from the verandah.
The Pig-on the Beach, Studland
Oh we do like to be beside the seaside, especially when the seaside is the soft golden sands of Studland Bay and the hotel is the comfy-chic The Pig-on the Beach. Dine in their conservatory restaurant where the food comes from within a 25-mile radius, have a spa treatment, take the path down to the beach (and their own beach hut), have a nightcap in the bar – then pop yourself off to bed in one of their 28 luxe bedrooms.
ESSEX
Chigborough Farm, Maldon
Chigborough Farm is a 130 acre rural oasis and a popular fishing destination thanks to its three fly fishing lakes and four carp fishing lakes. Nestled across these lakes are floating cabins, cottages, pods and more, with glamping and camping sites bang nearby. Though the landscape is wild and secluded, the site actually boasts a pottery studio, farm shop, incredible café and more. Guests are free to row around and explore the lakes, but there’s also bike hire for wider exploration, with the option to head out all the way along the Blackwater Estuary to the sea. The floating cabins have a charming, pioneer feel to them, and are very private thanks to their secluded locations. Specifics change from cabin to cabin but highlights include a hot tub, barbecue and fire pit, kitchen facilities, and telescope for stargazing.
Roydon Marina Village, Roydon
Now this is cool place to stay! This exclusive holiday lodge resort is located in Lee Valley’s regional park and has everything you need to stay, waterside. 315-berth marina? check. Hotel and holiday lodges? Yup. What about an on-site restaurant and waterfront café bar? Now you’re talking! The marina itself accommodates narrow and wide beam boats up to 75ft and provides excellent access to both the River Stort and River Lee. Then there’s your choice of where to stay, with the highest specification holiday lodges with contemporary interiors and outdoor hot tubs available. You can also choose to stay in the hotel, with clean and comfortable rooms with a continental breakfast and complimentary parking.
GLOUCESTERSHIRE
Barn Owl, Lower Mill Estate, Cirencester
Situated in the stunning Cotswold Water Park nature reserve south of Cirencester, a stay at Barn Owl will have you in full holiday mode in minutes. Fully equipped so you never have to leave, step out onto your own private balcony for the most glorious view over Howells Mere Lake, then crack open the bubbly and sink into the giant hot tub. This detached barn-style property sleeps up to eight guests and has a spacious open-plan feel, and BBQ on the decking, it’s also super dog friendly so bring your pooch.
Burghfield Cottage, Bourton-on-the-Water
It doesn’t get more scenic water wonderland than a stay in the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’. Book a getaway at beautiful Burghfield Cottage and wander the pretty lanes that hug the river Windrush and its low arched bridges when the tourists have gone home. Sleeping up to 10, it’s a great family getaway with five bedrooms and three bathrooms. After a hard day eating triple ice-creams and paddling in the water you’ll be happy to curl up by the large inglenook fireplace. There’s also a tranquil garden with fantastic far-reaching views with outdoor seating, a swingy hammock if you’re feeling brave and a charcoal barbecue, a top spot for brunches in the sunshine.
HAMPSHIRE
The Master Builder’s House, Buckler’s Hard, Beaulieu, New Forest
Stunning summer sunsets – G&T in hand – are hard to beat in this most lovely of locations overlooking the peaceful Beaulieu River. Set in a characterful former master shipbuilder’s home at Buckler’s Hard, the Master Builder’s has characterful period, modern and dog-friendly rooms, an AA restaurant, Yachtsman’s Bar and the alfresco Crew Bar & Grill on the terrace. The pretty 13th century village of Beaulieu and the Beaulieu family attraction and National Motor Museum are a short drive or pleasant 45-minute walk. Or take to the water and canoe downstream with New Forest Activities. Très tranquille.
Southampton Harbour Hotel, Southampton
A luxe, five-star hotel right on the waterfront at Ocean Village Marina, the Southampton Harbour Hotel was built to look like a super yacht – and it’s always surrounded by pretty nice ones too. Chill in the spa, dine at The Jetty, have a super pretty afternoon tea or cocktails under the summery canopy at HarBar on Sixth, with panoramic views over Southampton Water. Completing the VIP yachtie feel, there’s complimentary gin in every room. Cheers!
The Beach House, Milford-on-Sea
A former manor house sitting right on the beach, this Hall and Woodhouse pub close to Lymington has plenty of fair-weather appeal. Along with comfortable rooms, a cocktail-worthy terrace and a gastro-pub menu, there’s coastal walks right on the doorstep here and stunning views out over the Isle of Wight.
HERTFORDSHIRE
Riverside Mansions, Kings Langley
Ok, quick disclaimer, despite the name, you don’t actually get to stay in a mansion, but you do get to explore the beautiful riverside grounds when you book the cute wooden getaway cabin at this family-owned estate. Within the three acres of gated grounds you’ll find a private lake and bridge to the main house, pretty gardens and even a waterfall, as well as indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a football pitch, sauna and gym. All bookings include breakfast and a free bottle of Prosecco, too.
Springwell Barn, Rickmansworth
If you like the idea of a rural B&B but prefer a bit more privacy (whether for a romantic break, family getaway or business stopover), this water-side barn conversion is just the ticket as each room is self-contained has its own private entrance. The barn is right on the Grand Union Canal, River Colne, and surrounded by weeping willows and wildlife-reserve lakes, so there’s plenty of chances to watch the watery comings and goings. And, of course, you can get on the water yourself, by kayak, canoe (available to borrow), SUP or whatever floats your boat! There’s also loads to do locally from walking and cycling, to visiting the Rickmansworth Aquadrome and the Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio Tour.
ISLE OF WIGHT
The Hambrough, Ventnor
Sat on the cliff overlooking the sea, The Hambrough is a gorgeous boutique B&B just a few minutes’ walk from the beach. Known as the Foodie Capital of the Island, Ventnor has a strong hospitality scene, with The Hambrough at the heart of it. After a freshly shaken cocktail on the sunny terrace, a meal in Executive Chef Matthew Tomkinson’s Michelin-rated restaurant won’t disappoint, with light airy bedrooms to retire to afterwards. Gastro heaven.
Pinkmead Estate & Vineyard, near Newport
Waterside stays don’t get more exclusive than this fabulous private estate and vineyard on the River Medina, opposite the Isle of Wight’s famous yachtie-favourite Folly Pub. Just voted a very worthy Best Boutique Stay in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight in the 2023 Muddy Awards, check in here and twenty-four acres of absolutely stunning uninterrupted riverfront views, a private jetty and Kitchen Garden and Yoga Studio (with its own cinema room) are all yours. If you can tear yourself away from the comfortable bedrooms, there are bikes and an electric buggy to get around on.
Luccombe Hall Hotel, Shanklin
Room with a view? Close to a sandy beach and endless glorious countryside Luccombe Hall has location and creature comforts in bucket and spades. Check into superior sea-facing balcony bedrooms, executive suites or garden rooms with private hot tubs then work your way around the leisure facilities, including indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, a sauna, mini-golf putting and an indoor and outdoor children’s play area.
KENT
Sohot Stays, Margate
You’ll love this collection of eight modern, stylish apartments in the fabulous seaside town of Margate, on the Kent coast. All apartments sleep up to four guests, most are located directly opposite the beach and one even has its own hot tub. There’s availability this Easter break on this stunning three-bed apartment (pictured) – perfect for a family, sleeping up to six and sitting in the heart of Westgate-on-Sea. Here you’re just a few minutes down the road from the bustling bars of the bigger seaside towns of Margate meaning you’re blessed with a beautiful beach and less crowds.
The Ferry House, Isle of Sheppey
Sitting pretty directly on the Swale estuary, you’ll find this 16th century former inn set among the farmlands of the Burden family who live just up the road. Situated where a series of little fleet rivers cut across the landscape, forming a magical terrain of meandering channels, here you are surrounded by rolling farmland, wild meadows, protected wetland bird reserves and a Blue Flag coastline. This dine and stay destination comprises a restaurant (serving farm-to-fork produce), eleven boutique bedrooms (four have a waterside view) and (oh yes) massage treatments readily available for when all that outside air gets the better of you.
West Bay house, Westgate-on-Sea
Be one of the first to stay in this newly refurbished gem on the North Kent coastline, near hipster hangout Margate. Being just a few minutes drive away from the bustling bars of the bigger seaside towns, this lesser known coastal destination offers all the attractions but is also blessed with a beautiful beach and less crowds – perhaps why it gained the nickname ‘Mayfair by the Sea’. Having very recently been given a total facelift the property itself is now a luxurious 21st Century version of its original grandeur. The vast and opulent house boasts unbeatable views – the sunsets are stunning – and sleeps 18 people across nine bedrooms and bathrooms, making it the perfect getaway for groups and large families.
LEICESTERSHIRE
Boutique Narrowboats, Market Harborough
Enjoy the peaceful and picturesque countryside from a stylish canal boat. Perfect for a day trip or mini staycation, these narrowboats boats are designed for both couples and families (Gosling sleeps 6). Located on Union Wharf Marina in Market Harborough and near Foxton Locks, there’s plenty of routes to explore and you get a full handover, a boat safety induction and full training before you set off. These luxury self-cruise canal boats can be hired for the day or longer and come with king-sized beds, rainfall showers, bespoke fittings, stylish furnishings, full kitchen, wi-fi, flat-screen tv, central heating – there’s even a wine fridge in some of the boats so don’t forget that bottle of rosé. A short break hire starts from £570.
NORFOLK
Cley Windmill, Cley
Of all the places in Norfolk to bed down for the night, Cley Windmill has to be one of the most iconic – and, let’s face it, romantic. Built in the early 19th century, it has since been converted into a beautiful place to stay – and, oh my, those views! Perched next to the River Glaven in the beautiful North Norfolk village of Cley-next-the-Sea, the five-storey tower mill gazes out over reed beds, the Cley marshes and countryside as far as the eye can see. The 10 bedrooms are the epitome of character and style – pay particular attention to Stone Room, which was singer James Blunt’s bedroom back when the mill belonged to his family (the lucky lad enjoyed access to the balcony that encircles the mill).
Backwater, Wroxham
This is seriously special. Super spacious Backwater has a jetty on its own tranquil lagoon at Wroxham, the capital of the Broads. It’s no surprise that the luxe house, which sleeps eight in four bedrooms, has won awards for its sleek design – its veranda creates a stunning outdoor room and it couldn’t be closer to the water (in fact, it’s surrounded on three sides, so perhaps not ideal for little ones). Spend your days lazing by the private sun-dappled lagoon and stargazing after the sun sets. Its deep-sheltered canopy means you won’t need to head inside even if the weather turns – watch the raindrops on the lagoon with a bottle of something bubbly.
NORTHAMPTONSHIRE
The Falcon Hotel, Castle Ashby
This wellness-focused boutique hotel has been thoughtfully styled using natural materials to celebrate the gorgeous surroundings of the Castle Ashby Estate, where you’ll also find the incredible outdoor swimming lake. Designed by Capability Brown in 1760, it’s now the most stunning spot for a dip, overlooked by Castle Ashby House, and offers supervised sessions seven days a week throughout the year The only question now is bikini or wetsuit? Decisions, decisions.
The Farmhouse Apartment, Chester House, Little Irchester
How about your own apartment overlooking the River Nene, surrounded by 10,000 years of history on the gorgeous Chester House Estate heritage site? The two-bed apartment across the top two floors of the 17th century farmhouse has been beautifully restored with a modern country vibe and sleeps up to six guests, with far-reaching views across the Nene Valley. There’s a spacious, fully fitted kitchen and a farm shop on site, but if you don’t fancy cooking there’s always the cosy Farmhouse Café to tempt you.
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
The Angel Lakeside Lodge, Hawton Waters
Book a back-to-nature escape in this luxe larch-clad eco lodge with pretty sedum and wildflower roof and domed stargazing window. The lake is the star (you can kayak, paddleboard or fish here) and the cool, circular lodge has been designed to make the most of its waterside location. Big, bay-fronted windows max the watery views, the king size bed faces French doors that open out to the water and even the roll top bath has a view of the lake. Want to gather the gang? If they’re willing to let you enjoy the luxury of the lodge, there are camping pitches dotted about the 40 acres of private grassland. Bustling Newark with its lovely indie boutiques is four miles away and Belton House and Belvoir Castle are also close by. Costs £368 for a two-night weekend in July.
Colwick Hall, Nottingham
Play lady of the manor in this perfect Palladian style Georgian country house that was once the ancestral home of Lord Byron. Perched next to network of pretty lakes in 60 acres of parkland, the grounds are lovely to waft around the waterside Bridgerton-style. Waterbabe? This is your place. With the National Watersports Centre and Holme Pierrepont country park on the doorstep, offering everything from open water lake swimming and paddleboarding to white water kayaking. Rooms from £80.75 during the summer.
RUTLAND
Hambleton Hall, Hambleton
If you don’t mind splashing out on a fabulous overnighter, there’s no better place to bed down in the county than here. This plush countryside estate comes with elegantly-designed rooms, perfectly manicured gardens, Michelin-starred cuisine (the restaurant has held a Michelin Star since 1982) and the bakery is also award-winning. Accomodation is exceptional with 15 rooms and two suite rooms and the Hall’s gardens and grounds cover 17 acres and is surrounded by water. Bag a spacious, superior room on the second floor and enjoy superb views of Rutland Water. No flashy boutique hotel-style quirks, instead more of a traditional country estate room with books, luxe toiletries, digital radio, fluffy robes and slippers. Dinner of course is a must here if you can fork out for it but if not, there’s plenty of nearby pubs to visit instead. Rooms start from £390 a night.
SOMERSET
East Quay pods, Watchet
Stay in a state-of-the art accommodation pod at East Quay, the contemporary arts centre on Watchet’s harbourside. The five self-contained little pods, sleeping from two to four, are perched up high on the award-winning building. Individually designed, each pod has its own concept and story, and views across the harbour and out to sea.
Locanda on the Weir, Porlock Weir
With Porlock Bay in front and the moors, hills and ancient woodlands of the Exmoor National Park behind, this boutique hotel with just five rooms overlooking the 15th century harbour at Porlock Weir, is perfectly placed for that luxury coastal/countryside getaway. An added bonus is their cut above restaurant and Neapolitan chef proprietor with a passion for fresh, locally sourced food and Italian wines. Grazie, signore!
SUFFOLK
Hippersons Boatyard, Beccles
Wake up to the sound of lapping waves and boats gliding past at the brilliant Hippersons Boatyard on the River Waveney in Beccles. With a collection of six quirky, cool and unique houseboats and luxe glamping pods, including the brand new Wild Cat pod (above), you’re not just by the water, but actually on it, floating idyllically on the southern tip of the Broads National Park. Spend your days messing about on the river in your own private rowing boat or electric day boat or taking part in fun water-based activities like SUP and guided canoe tours. Just seeking R&R? Simply watch the world and all the amazing nature in this part of the world float by from the deck of your dreamy accommodation while enjoying the locally-sourced contents of your Hippersons hamper.
Blyth Rise Stays, Laxfield
If it’s complete tranquility you seek on your Suffolk staycation then you’ll adore the lakeside lodges at Blyth Rise Stays on the outskirts of Laxfield. This family farm has been lovingly rewilded (including digging out a lake!) with over 2000 trees planted in the process. So, as well as being a natural oasis for your enjoyment, it’s also a wonderfully eco-friendly and sustainable escape. You can choose between the six two-bedroom waterside lodges, with swoon-worthy interiors, or the six quirky-cool Igluhuts in the woodland. Whichever you choose you’ll be able to make the most of the fabulous on-site amenities, including an honesty shop full of lovely local produce, hidden wooden saunas, BBQs and outdoor log fires or book al fresco yoga classes and beauty treatments
SURREY
Great Fosters, Egham
In landlocked Surrey we’re a little hard up for hotels with waterviews which is why Great Fosters in Egham with its impressive Saxon moat makes the cut. Built as a royal hunting lodge in the 1500s, this lavish and historic five-star hotel is set on a 50-acre estate on the edge of Egham. There’s plenty to see and do in the local area – for grown-ups and kids – but Great Fosters is a destination in itself with a vast Arts and Craft garden that includes topiary mazes, a Saxon moat with a Japanese-inspired arched bridge, quirky yew rooms, a heated outdoor swimming pool, a tennis court and a lake. There are 56 suites and bedrooms each one individually and gorgeously styled, and foodies will love the fact there’s a Michelin-starred restaurant plus an a la carte restaurant and bar.
SUSSEX
The Gallivant, Rye
This one-of-a-kind beach house complete with a destination restaurant sits on Camber Sands beach. The hotel has a New York Hamptons feel but with beautifully British touches including their bias towards serving English wines. There are 20 rooms including luxury suites with direct access to the ‘coastal garden’ as well as snug cabins and the entire location is set on a single level so that views of the beach can be enjoyed in almost every spot. Amazing. Guests can take advantage of daily yoga on the beach, Peloton cycling, English wine tasting and treatments at the Beach Hut mini spa. And if you want to see a little more culture, the chocolate-box pretty medieval town of Rye is just a 10minute drive away. And the best bit? You’ve an incredible collection of vineyards in the vicinity but if you want to stay put, you can sample them the Muddy way over dinner at The Gallivant’s restaurant.
East Beach Guest House, Littlehampton
A beautiful British coastal escape awaits at this Victorian property that has been lovingly transformed to suit contemporary styles and tastes with hints of influence from Littlehampton Beach across all nine bedrooms. Selected rooms have sea views and all guests can relax in the lounge that overlooks the beach – a dream at sunset, or sunrise if you’re that way inclined. Dogs are welcomed and they’ll no doubt enjoy the nearby walks around neighbouring Arundel and the South Downs. Also within easy reach is Worthing, Chichester and the famous Goodwood Estate. But just a few minutes walk away is the Arun River Harbour which has a variety of eateries although Muddy recommends taking the ferry to West Beach – nationally protected with sand dunes and a nature path.
WARWICKSHIRE
The Arden Hotel, Stratford-Upon-Avon
Just a stone’s throw from the RSC and the River Avon is boutique hotel The Arden. It impressed Muddy when we visited, with its two AA rosette restaurant onsite and luxury rooms – not surprising considering it underwent £6million in renovations some years ago. Head and see a show in the evening and the next day pack up a picnic to enjoy next to the river or hop on a gin cruise.
Arrow Mill, Alcester
Just out of Stratford in beautiful Alcester you’ll find Arrow Mill up a lavender trail path, nestled at the riverside. It won Muddy’s Best Destination Pub 2022 (so you know you’re onto a good thing!) and overlooks the estate of Ragley Hall – with gorgeous gardens, but the pub’s are pretty special in their own right. Enjoy dinner outside watching the river meandering past then check into one of nine rooms, looking out over the pond complete with resident family of swans.
WEST MIDLANDS
The Moat House, Acton Trussell
Gorgeous lakeside The Moat House in Acton Trussell is hidden in the rolling Staffordshire countryside and is surrounded by beautiful walks – you can even take your pooch to enjoy a break too. It’s a luxe, indie hotel steeped in history, based in a Grade-II listed building, with beautifully decorated rooms where you can kick back and unwind without a care in the world. Here’s our recent review.
Coombe Abbey, Coventry
Fancy taking a gondola around a moat? Coombe Abbey in Coventry is the place of Bridgerton dreams – a former monastery set in 500 acres of woodland and surrounded by its own moat. Stay in the sumptuous hotel and make sure you book in for one of its boatmen to take you a trip around the building and its beautiful gardens in your own gondola. Who said romance is dead?
WORCESTERSHIRE
Vivianna, Tenbury Wells
Feel at one with nature with a stay at this incredible property, uniquely built around a mature ash tree! It lies within beautifully landscaped grounds, hidden at the end of a lane on the edge of a stunning wildlife lake. Wake up to the gentle sound of a splashing waterfall outside, this is a top spot for couples or families.Take in your morning coffee from your wrap around balcony overlooking the view, then go for a dip in your own private hot tub, perched on the edge of the lake.
Brockencote Hall, Kidderminster
Located in 70 acres of glorious grounds, this Victorian manor house is a stunning getaway. Complete with a large, scenic lake, tennis court and beautiful restored dovecote, it may look huge but it has a fabulously boutique feel, with 21 bedrooms. Wake up to serene views across the water from your bedroom, or go for a stroll in the sunshine and feed the ducks. Then dine out at the 3 AA Rosette Chaddesley Restaurant with it’s 360 panoramic rural views.
