Best Retreats In Britain

From the rugged coastline of Cornwall to the vibrant cityscape of Edinburgh, these are the very best retreats in Britain

WATERGATE BAY HOTEL, CORNWALL

Stay closer to the water than ever before in one of the seven new beach lofts at the Watergate Bay Hotel (watergatebay.co.uk) on the north coast of Cornwall. In the mornings, slide open the floor-to-ceiling glass doors and make the most of your private access straight onto the sand with a surfing session at sunrise, or relax with a book in one of the hanging chairs by the fire. Some rooms have deep Japanese baths by the window with sea views and all the beach lofts are dog-friendly. During your stay, you’ll be paired up with a host to help with room service and bookings, and there’s also a pantry available, so you can enjoy in-room breakfasts or load up a hamper with freshly baked cakes to eat on the beach.

THE LYGON ARMS, WORCESTERSHIRE

Nestled in the picturesque village of Broadway, The Lygon Arms (lygonarmshotel.co.uk) is an idyllic rural retreat with a fascinating history to boot—both King Charles I and Oliver Cromwell stayed here. Today’s guests are greeted by numerous lounges and snugs with squishy sofas and crackling fireplaces, ideal for enjoying afternoon tea or an aperitif before dinner in the handsome restaurant with its barrel-vaulted ceiling, antler chandeliers, and oil paintings. The 86 bedrooms have tartan headboards, comfortable organic Naturalmat mattresses, and Floris products in the bathrooms, but don’t cocoon yourself in there for too long, as there’s a spa with an inviting pool and fantastic massages to experience.

THE ROYAL OAK, WILTSHIRE