From grand London landmarks to clifftop hideaways in Cornwall and castles of comfort in the Scottish Highlands: eight hotels that are worth a trip in their own right.
See the eight hotels โTap "View hotel" to go straight to the hotel's official website, check availability and book directly.
London's most famous hotel has welcomed royalty, film stars and writers since 1889. Art Deco and Edwardian interiors, views over the Thames and a bar culture that is a destination in itself.
A grand stately home set in hundreds of acres of National Trust gardens above the River Thames. Once home to the Astor family and famous as the setting of the 1960s Profumo affair, it now offers country-house luxury less than an hour from London.
An elegant Georgian hotel in the heart of the World Heritage city, with its own spa fed by Bath's natural thermal springs. Soak in the same mineral-rich waters the Romans enjoyed, then step out to the Roman Baths and Royal Crescent.
An adults-only, eco-minded hotel built into the cliffs above a wide sandy beach. Every room looks out to sea, and the spa's outdoor hot tubs and seawater pool face the Atlantic sunset.
A grand Victorian landmark beside Waverley Station, with views of Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town. Its clock tower famously runs three minutes fast so travellers don't miss their trains, and J.K. Rowling finished the final Harry Potter book in one of its suites.
A legendary country estate in the Scottish countryside, with three championship golf courses (host of the 2014 Ryder Cup), falconry, horse riding, fishing and a spa. Dining ranges from relaxed to the acclaimed Restaurant Andrew Fairlie.
A waterfront hotel inside the colourful Italianate village created by architect Clough Williams-Ellis on the Welsh coast. Famous as the filming location of the 1960s TV series The Prisoner, it feels like a Mediterranean daydream in North Wales.
A lavish Victorian building, once the headquarters of the Ulster Bank, in Belfast's lively Cathedral Quarter. Opulent interiors, an award-winning cocktail bar and an easy walk to the city's pubs, live music and the Titanic Quarter.
Summer, bank holidays and big events like the Edinburgh Festival in August fill the best rooms months ahead.
Milder crowds, beautiful gardens and countryside, and often better rates than high summer.
Advance train tickets are much cheaper than buying on the day. If you're driving, check parking at the hotel.
British weather changes fast. A light waterproof is useful in every season and every region.
We select hotels based on location, character, facilities and their reputation among travellers.
Every button takes you to the hotel's official website, not to third-party booking platforms.
Couples, families or friends: we note who each hotel suits best, from city breaks to coastal escapes.
Know a hotel that deserves a place on the list, or have a question? Send us a message.
An independent travel guide to hotels across the United Kingdom. Some links on this page may be affiliate links. Facilities and availability may change, so always check the hotel's official website before booking.
