A Journey Through Time to Historic Country Hotels in the UK
When you check into a traditional country hotel in the UK, you don’t just stay there for a night – you are taken back in time. These buildings, which range from formal manor houses to royal estates, hold centuries of history.
Whether in the stunning highlands of Scotland or the rural grasslands of the Cotswolds, each ‘Historic Country Hotel’ brings with them a distinct view of the people who lived and worked there, their lives, and the period they lived in – the era before us.
And so by merely checking in you have the opportunity to both stay in luxury whilst journeying through time. And to get your feet itchy, here are just six amazing country hotel breaks in the UK:
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Historic Country Hotels in the UK to Visit
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Historic Country Hotels in the UK that Offer a Regal Retreat:
Amberley Castle, West Sussex
Surrounded by the serene landscape of West Sussex, Amberley Castle, with its nine centuries of history, hovers over the hills with pride. This breathtaking structure has been meticulously restored and its complex architecture transformed into an elegant hotel that offers more than just luxury, it offers a peek into the medieval grandeur. Amberley is a castle surrounded by a green moat and gardens that are full of life. It is an opportunity to immerse yourself into the tales of knighthood and nobility that used to rule this land.
Langley Castle Hotel photo via Langley Castle X
Historic Country Hotels in the UK that Echoes the 14th Century:
Langley Castle, Northumberland
The robust Langley Castle in Northumberland symbolizes the colossal history of the 14th century. The castle’s massive stone walls and stained glass windows harkens back to its former days of being a dominant fortress. The castle still welcomes guests today. Now a sumptuous refuge, it is still decorated with many original features such as the stout battlements from where the archers could stand guard against marauding forces from across the nearby Scottish Border.
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Historic Country Hotels in the UK that Offer Tudor Elegance:
Thornbury Castle, Gloucestershire
Thornbury Castle near Gloucestershire was once Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn‘s. This Tudor manor is surrounded by 15 acres of land, and boasts beautifully manicured gardens that include The Rose Garden, The Kitchen and Herb Garden, The Privy Garden and The Labyrinth.
The castle’s red-brick facade represents its grandeur during its royal life and its refined interior is a sign of its transformation from royal house to stately mansion. When staying guests have the opportunity to; experience themed dinners with a historical background or explore the paths once walked by Tudor royals in the past.
The Witchery by the Castle photo by Winston Tjia
Historic Country Hotels in the UK that’s also a Gothic Haven:
The Witchery by the Castle, Edinburgh
With accolades that include ‘Scotland’s most romantic hotel‘ and perched under the towers of Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery by the Castle exudes an intoxicating mystique.
Housed in a collection of buildings that date back to 1595, The Witchery by the Castle which is known for its lavish Gothic style, offers guests suites that are adorned in magnificent velvets, silks, and brocade textiles. Perfect for those who want to journey back to the luxury lives of the rulers in olden times, who lived in the Royal Mile.
Further Reading: Where to go for Weekend Break in Ireland and the UK: Part 1
Gravetye Manor photo by Adrian Turner
Historic Country Hotels in the UK that Offer Victorian Splendor:
Gravetye Manor, Sussex
Gravetye Manor epitomises Victorian magnificence. Erected in 1598 by Richard Infield, for his bride Katharine Compton, the manor is located amidst 1000 acres of peaceful countryside. However its beautiful gardens and wildflower meadows covering acres of land is down to Gravetye Manor’s most renowned owner, William Robinson, known for being one of the greatest gardeners of all time. Robinson bought the manor and surrounding lands in 1884, and it was his home until he died well into his nineties in 1935.
This historic hotel, being a reflection of its Elizabethan roots, is not only manifested in its architecture but also in its ‘garden to table’ dining concept symbolising the horticulture passions of its former propriotor.
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Historic Country Hotels in the UK that Celebrates Centuries of Welsh Heritage:
Bodysgallen Hall & Spa, Llandudno
Bodysgallen Hall with magnificent views, across 230 acres of wooded parkland and award-winning gardens, to Conwy Castle and Snowdonia National Park dates back to the Middle Ages. Constructed as a watch-tower to serve as defensive support for Conwy Castle, architectural elements including the original five-story tower dating back to the. 13th century and the beautiful walled gardens, added century by century, are open for visitors to relish.
From its pink sandstone to its spiral staircase, history aficionados can also discover a diversity of walking paths that provide both serenity, and a hint of the past, in every step the property it is taken on.
Further Reading: Where to go for Weekend Break in Ireland and the UK: Part 2
Each hotel highlighted, through its historical preservation and restored luxury, are windows to another era. For a day and night, or more, visitors can journey back in time to the times of knights and rulers, many who have made British history so compelling.
These stunning abodes are not only places to lay your head, but also the repositories of history, offering an unbeatable opportunity to enjoy the best of the UK’s culture and tradition, in luxury and comfort. Whether it’s the gothic enchantment of Edinburgh or the Tudor elegance of Gloucestershire, every visit brings with it something new and everlasting.
Manor house feature photo by Anna Mould
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