With so many gorgeous villages to see in the Cotswolds, it can be a little tricky choosing where to stay. Having grown up in the heart of the Cotswolds, there’s so much to see and do, so it’s important to have a great place to stay. One of the most essential things is to ensure you have a great hotel to stay in as a base, and that will help to unlock the pathway to exploring the best the Cotswolds have to offer. Whether you’re keen to see Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, or Worcestershire, there are so many places to choose from, from spa hotels to Cotswold hotels with excellent restaurants. In the following guide, I’ll cover all the best hotels in the Cotswolds for the perfect break away.
The Painswick, Gloucestershire
With just sixteen beautifully curated bedrooms, The Painswick is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in the Cotswolds. Located in the ‘Queen of the Cotswolds’, Painswick is famous for its iconic yew trees. Legend has it that the neighbouring Painswick Church has exactly 99 yew trees, and the devil will destroy the hundredth if it was planted. The Painswick is a true home from home with a beautiful position in the Cotswold countryside. Discover roaring log fires, homely decor, and snug furniture. This boutique Cotswold hotel is situated in a gorgeous eighteenth century property with stylish decor that makes for a comfy stay away.
The Lygon Arms, Worcestershire
An iconic hotel with a fascinating history, The Lygon Arms is a beautiful building in Worcestershire’s pretty Cotswold town of Broadway. Dating back to the 1300s, it’s undoubtedly one of the best hotels in the Cotswolds. The Lygon Arms has hosted a plethora of high profile guests, from Prince Philip to Charles I. From back then through to today, it maintains its luxurious status as one of the most elegant hotels in the Cotswolds. Inside the hotel, you’ll discover indulgent suites, roaring log fires, tartan carpets, and beautiful panelled lounge spaces. There’s also a pool, sauna, and steam rooms. In a recent announcement, celebrity chef James Martin has now taken over the iconic Grill restaurant. Feast on their signature dish, the dry-aged Longhorn beef wellington – it’s a meal you won’t forget!
Check out the time I went for a Sunday roast at The Lygon Arms in Broadway.
Ellenborough Park, Gloucestershire
An impressive fifteenth century building, Ellenborough Park is a country estate and one of the best hotels in the Cotswolds. It’s also the only 5* luxury hotel in Gloucestershire. Boasting splendid grounds and an indulgent spa, it’s ideal for exploring the nearby Cotswold towns of Winchcombe and Broadway. Ellenborough Park is on the edge of Cheltenham Racecourse, making it the perfect pitstop during the infamous Cheltenham Races. You’ll discover opulent bedrooms with heated marble floors, an excellent fine dining restaurant, and an Indian themed spa. Enjoy some relaxation time with a treatment or by enjoying the hydro pool or outdoor heated swimming pool. There’s even a Boot Room for grabbing a pair of Dubarry boots and going for a stomp around the surrounding countryside.
Some of the links I’ve used in this post are affiliate – while it will make no difference to the price you pay, I may earn a small commission from the provider if you book something I’ve recommended. I’d never recommend anywhere I truly don’t love.
The Swan, Gloucestershire
Nestled in the beautiful Cotswold village of Bibury, The Swan is a pretty hotel draped in colourful ivy. Situated on the banks of the River Coln, The Swan is a former coaching inn and today is now one of the best hotels in the Cotswolds. Book a stay in the comfortably plush rooms, each with its own unique style and decor. It’s the perfect place for unwinding in an armchair with a glass of wine while you enjoy the gorgeous Cotswold views. In the summer, step outside of The Swan and watch the swans taking to the water. The nearby iconic Arlington Row is well worth checking out, as well as the trout farm where you can barbecue your own catch.
Soho Farmhouse, Oxfordshire
If you’re lucky enough to have a Soho House membership (or a Soho Friends membership), you’re in for a treat at Soho Farmhouse. In the heart of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, Soho Farmhouse is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in the Cotswolds. Located next to the celebrity glittered Cotswold village of Chipping Norton, Soho Farmhouse itself is spread across a hundred acres of countryside. Its luxurious lodgings range from lakeside cabins to farm cottages, to the farm house itself. As you’ll expect from the Soho House team, the dining facilities are equally fantastic. Check out the delicious Japanese cuisine from Pen Yen, or grab a tasty cocktail from the bar. To keep entertained, take a dip in the stunning indoor-outdoor pool, take an exercise class. For something a little more active, see how you fare at clay pigeon shooting or boating on the lake.
Thyme, Gloucestershire
Located on the gorgeous Southrop Manor Estate in Gloucestershire, Thyme was originally a historic Cotswold manor and accompanying farm. Today, it’s a wonderful hotel boasting luxurious houses and cottages for accommodation. It’s a place for hotel guests to connect with nature and relax in the beautiful Gloucestershire countryside. One of the best hotels in the Cotswolds, you can explore the living areas of the former manor house. There’s also a selection of restaurants and bars, a spa, acres of glorious grounds, and even a cookery school. Don’t miss the wonderful Ox Barn restaurant – located in a former oxen house, it serves delicious contemporary plates. Relax afterwards with a glass of wine or two and sink into the sumptuous surroundings.
Dormy House Hotel, Worcestershire
Located near the stunning Cotswold village of Broadway, Dormy House Hotel is a true hidden gem. One of the best hotels in the Cotswolds, it’s a countryside retreat for guests, with spectacular views over the Cotswold hills. With roaring log fires and armchairs to sink into, it’s ultimate place to come and relax. There’s a selection of guestrooms to enjoy, from those in the farmhouse to Rose Cottage, but all are elegant and chic. Dining options range from the wonderful Potting Shed restaurant, or staff can rustle up a picnic hamper for a walk through the Cotswolds. Indulge in some wellness and self-care by heading to the House Spa. There’s a beautiful hot tub, pool, thermal suite, and a range of treatments to choose from. You’ll certainly leave a stay at Dormy House feeling relaxed.
The Wild Rabbit, Oxfordshire
A modern British inn in the beautiful Oxfordshire of Kingham, The Wild Rabbit is one of the best hotels in the Cotswolds. It has a range of plush accommodations, as well as a fine dining restaurant serving incredible locally sourced dishes. Choose from the Wild Rabbit rooms – spaces with all your creature comforts from crisp linen sheets to countryside accents. There are also the Kingham Village cottages. Just a short walk from the Wild Rabbit, each is a comfortable home from home, fully equipped and with roaring log fires. You can alternatively choose to stay in the Daylesford Farm cottages, the perfect place to be near the iconic farm shop and its impressive restaurants. The wonderful Wild Rabbit restaurant itself offers a delicious seasonal menu using local ingredients. You can choose from dishes like venison wellington and truffle risotto for the perfect example of Cotswolds fine dining.
Barnsley House, Gloucestershire
Barnsley House is a beautiful country house retreat, and one of the best hotels in the Cotswolds. Located in the pretty Cotswold village of Barnsley near Cirencester, it’s the perfect spot for indulgence and relaxation. Unwind in your space, and choose from rooms than include a luxurious garden suite to escape to. A star attraction is the garden spa. The tranquillity starts from the garden itself, the perfect space to relax and enjoy a treatment or two. Barnsley House has its own restaurant, too – The Potager. Here, you can feast on tasty plates that are made using fresh produce grown in the garden. There are gorgeous views from the restaurant too, so you can soak them in while you dine. Once you’ve enjoyed a delicious dinner, you can head across the road to the hotel’s very own Village Pub. Enjoy a bottle of wine in the Cotswolds country pub, and rest assured knowing you don’t have to stroll too far to get home.
The Fish Hotel, Worcestershire
A gorgeous countryside estate set on over 400 acres of land, The Fish Hotel is one of the best hotels in the Cotswolds. Boasting dozens of chic rooms, each space is slightly different. Choose from a hotel house to a treehouse to a cosy hut nestled in the countryside, all offering the benefits of the hotel facilities. It’s the perfect retreat for becoming acquainted with nature and kicking back to relax. Guests can borrow a pair of wellington boots to crunch through leaves of the rolling grounds. Afterwards, snuggle up by a roaring log fire with a glass of red wine to warm up. If you visit on a Sunday, you’ll also get to experience the incredible The Fish Sunday roast with all of the trimmings. Other culinary experiences include The Fish’s impressive onsite restaurant, Home to Hook, which serves wonderful seafood dishes throughout the year. You can also indulge in a Tipsy Tea for afternoon tea with a twist, or try Feasting on the Deck, a place to wine and dine al fresco.
De Vere Cotswold Water Park, Gloucestershire
A Cotswold hotel with a difference, the De Vere Cotswold Water Park is located in some of the most beautiful surroundings in the area. One of the best hotels in the Cotswolds, De Vere Cotswold Water Park is situated on an area of over 150 lakes. You’ll discover stylish and contemporary interiors, which ensure guests are able to make the most of the stunning views. Cotswold stone and glass are blended to allow spacious lodging and lakeside scenery. Head to Spa6 for the ultimate in relaxation, and indulge in a beauty treatment or two. Many of the guest rooms have views for unwinding and enjoying the lakeside views in peace and quiet. As for dining, you can enjoy a meal in the stunning grounds in three different locations, with a focus on local produce and seasonal ingredients. When you’re feeling spritely, there are acres of grounds to explore. Spot wildlife or partake in some water sports on one of the many lakes.
No. 131 The Promenade, Gloucestershire
The perfect base for exploring the Cotswolds, No. 131 The Promenade is the standout attraction on Cheltenham’s most chic street. In a beautiful Georgian building, No. 131 retains its classic history whilst being adorned with gorgeous contemporary style. One of the best hotels in the Cotswolds, it’s a short walk from the boutique Montpellier area, perfect for bars and independent shops and restaurants. The rooms are beautiful, boasting period features and stylish wallpaper, even decorated with original work from artists like Banksy and David Hockney. Many feature deep, copper roll top baths – the perfect spot for relaxing with a view across Cheltenham’s Imperial Gardens. When it comes to dining, you’re spoilt for choice. Choose from delicious brunches, barbecued dishes al fresco, or heart roast dinners on a Sunday. No. 131 has its very own Gin and Juice bar, which has probably one of the most extensive gin menus in the country.
Looking for somewhere to stay in Cheltenham? Check out my guide to the best hotels in Cheltenham.
That’s my guide to the best hotels in the Cotswolds! Are there any others you’d include on the list? Let me know in the comments below.
I really would love to stay in all of these places but the Soho Farmhouse, Barnsley House and the Fish Hotel are my favorite.
They all look lovely. I didn’t see too many places in the Cotswolds when I was there last year, but I do think that there was on in Bibury that looked pretty nice and Stow on the Wold also had some fantastic looking places. Makes me want to return!