The Cotswolds’ gently rolling green hills and iconic villages exude classic English charm, making it an ideal backdrop for a romantic getaway. Think exposed beams, cozy coaching inns, crackling log fires, and timeless streets and churches. It’s the quintessential Ye Olde England, adored by both locals and celebrities.
And when it comes to romantic hotels, the Cotswolds doesn’t disappoint. You’ll discover historic inns steeped in history and atmosphere, boutique gems adorned with artistic touches, and luxurious havens with secluded gardens and intimate nooks. Whether you’re into cream teas, local beer by the fireplace, or gourmet dinners, the Cotswolds has it all. It’s also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with options for walkers and cyclists to revel in the breathtaking landscape.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into our list of the best hotels in the Cotswolds for couples.
Best hotels in the Cotswolds for couples: top picks
1. Barnsley House
Barnsley House, Barnsley, Cirencester GL7 5EE
Barnsley House, a 17th-century manor nestled in the heart of Barnsley village, is surrounded by rolling landscapes. The golden stone facade, gables, and charming mullion windows give this place an undeniably romantic feel. Step inside, and you’ll be welcomed by casual-chic furnishings and the warm embrace of cozy log fires.
The real enchantment lies in the formal gardens, where you can stroll through a laburnum avenue and a delightful potager. Within this idyllic setting, you’ll discover 18 bedrooms, each thoughtfully furnished in soothing greys and creams, with garden-inspired artwork that adds a touch of nature’s beauty to your stay.
If relaxation is your goal, the spa beckons with its outdoor hydrotherapy pool, indoor pool, sauna, and steam room. For the more active, there’s even a tennis court on the premises. When it’s time to dine, the hotel’s inn serves up hearty, homegrown pub food, while The Potager restaurant offers a more refined culinary experience.
Undoubtedly, Barnsley House ranks among the most romantic hotels in the UK, making it the perfect choice for couples seeking a tranquil getaway. Plus, they provide free bikes for those eager to explore the nearby villages, adding an extra dash of adventure to your stay.
Prices: From £525 per night
2. Ellenborough Park
Southam Ln, Cheltenham GL52 3NJ
Once the 19th-century residence of the Earl of Ellenborough, this historic gem boasts turrets, arches, and towers that create an enchanting atmosphere. Set on a sprawling 90-acre estate, it’s now transformed into a 62-room Cotswold stone hideaway located just outside Cheltenham.
Within its walls, you’ll find a stylish brasserie, a more formal restaurant, and an intimate spa, offering a variety of experiences to suit your mood. The interiors, thoughtfully styled by Nina Campbell, radiate quintessentially English charm but are anything but dull.
As for the bedrooms, they are oak-paneled and offer sweeping views across the parkland, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty.
Prices: From £226 per night
3. Whatley Manor
Easton Grey, Malmesbury SN16 0RB
Whatley Manor seamlessly blends the charm of a country house with a modern commitment to sustainability. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking uninterrupted tranquility and a break from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.
The restaurant at Whatley Manor is nothing short of legendary, known for its 12-course feasts, which are among the best and most inventive you’ll find at an English country house hotel. When you’re ready to walk off your meals, the gardens invite you to explore, leading you from meticulously manicured flower beds to the untamed beauty of the countryside.
For a touch of relaxation and rejuvenation, the sleek spa offers treatments that make use of products from the esteemed beauty brand Gaia. Enjoy the heated relaxation beds and a variety of pools equipped with jets to soothe your shoulders.
Prices: From £354 per night
4. Greenway Hotel
Shurdington Rd, Shurdington, Cheltenham GL51 4UG
If you’re in search of a romantic Cotswolds retreat that won’t strain your budget but offers a rich blend of grandeur and comfort, the old Elizabethan manor of Greenway Hotel is a fantastic choice.
Located a mere 10-minute drive from the charming attractions of Cheltenham, Greenway Hotel seamlessly marries tradition with contemporary luxuries. The expansive spa, for instance, features a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room, al fresco hot tub, and even a samarium for relaxation.
While the lounges and dining rooms exude the ambiance of a bygone era, the cozy bedrooms provide a snug and inviting retreat.
Prices: From £229 per night
5. Fish Hotel
The Fish Hotel, Farncombe Estate, Broadway, Worcestershire WR12 7LH
Cleverly designed to appeal to grown-up couples as much as families with young children, The Fish is the largest and most budget-friendly option among the Farncombe Estate’s trio of charming hotels. In the main farmhouse, the Scandi design creates a cozy atmosphere with inviting features like fires to snuggle up beside, sheepskin rugs, and rooms adorned in soothing shades of greys and cream.
For a unique break from the ordinary, we recommend trying out one of their treehouses. These accommodations come with luxurious touches like underfloor heating, Nespresso machines, and heated outdoor baths, allowing you to enjoy the romance of sleeping amidst magical woodlands.
The staff at The Fish Hotel go the extra mile to make you feel at home, from delivering Sunday papers to your doorstep to offering milk from the kitchen fridge for your tea. Friendly team members are readily available to assist with anything, whether it’s mapping out hiking trails or providing transportation around the estate in Land Rovers.
Price: from £250 a night
6. Dormy House
Willersey Hill, Broadway WR12 7LF
Located near the charming village of Broadway, Dormy House is a true treat of a hotel. It boasts stylish and deeply relaxing décor, outstanding cuisine, and impeccable service. The hotel’s state-of-the-art spa has garnered numerous awards, making it a must-visit.
The 38 bedrooms at Dormy House are individually designed based on their shape and outlook. Some of the 18 rooms in the main house showcase exposed stone walls and beams, with even the entry-level rooms offering ample space for a table and chair. In the adjacent wings, the 20 rooms include Rose Cottage, perfect for romantics with its private hot tub, and Courtyard suites that embrace Scandinavian design.
Prices: From £409 a night
7. Calcot Manor & Spa
Calcot Manor, Gloucestershire, Tetbury GL8 8YJ
Calcot & Spa effortlessly marries contemporary aesthetics with the timeless charm of a classic country house hotel. Picture dreamy cream furnishings, plush sofas, and the comforting crackle of fires in the background. It’s a place where tranquility reigns, and even though it’s an exceptionally family-friendly hotel, it remarkably maintains an atmosphere for romantic getaways.
This Cotswolds gem has it all: a sumptuous spa, exceptional dining, beautifully appointed bedrooms, and, of course, the stunning backdrop of the countryside. Calcot is just a stone’s throw from the market town of Tetbury, which beckons with its 16th- and 17th-century architecture and a treasure trove of vintage and antiques shops.
Prices: From £350 per night
8. The Wild Rabbit
Church St, Kingham, Chipping Norton OX7 6YA
Nestled in the picturesque village of Kingham, The Wild Rabbit offers a stylish proposition. The inn’s 18th-century bedrooms sport a Scandi-infused, minimalist feel, with ample natural light and a neutral color palette. Luxurious touches abound, including Nespresso machines and the allure of four-poster beds. The food, both in the restaurant and the pub, has earned outstanding reviews, and since The Wild Rabbit is part of the Daylesford Estate, you can count on fresh, local, and organic produce.
9. Foxhill Manor
Farncombe House, Farncombe, Broadway WR12 7LJ
For those who wish to feel as if they’re spending the weekend with glamorous, fabulous friends, Foxhill Manor is the perfect choice. This boutique property on the Farncombe Estate doesn’t have a traditional hotel feel – there’s no reception desk; instead, it offers eight unique bedrooms and a “help yourself to anything, anytime” attitude. Guests are encouraged to wander into the kitchen and request dishes from beans on toast to lobster thermidor. You can also pour yourself a G&T from the sideboard in the sitting room, snuggle up to watch a film in the cinema, or ask the staff for a ride over to their sister hotel, Dormy House, for a relaxing spa visit.
Prices: From £350 per night
10. Artist Residence
52 Cambridge St, Pimlico, London SW1V 4JD
For those who appreciate boutique hotels with a generous dose of character, Artist Residence in Oxfordshire, a branch of this stylish micro-chain, is a real gem. The decor is delightfully quirky and eclectic, and it complements the period features of the 16th-century building to perfection.
At Artist Residence, you’ll discover just five suites, and we highly recommend booking the Barn Suite for an extra-special stay. This suite boasts a private terrace and a freestanding bath, ensuring a truly unique experience.
Downstairs, The Mason Arms awaits, a charming pub that’s the perfect spot for a satisfying meal after a day of countryside strolls and adventures.
11. Thyme
Thyme, Southrop, Lechlade GL7 3NX
Price: From £380 per night
12. Cowley Manor
Cowley, Cheltenham, GL53 9NL
If you’re in the mood for a thoroughly indulgent escape, Cowley Manor is the place to be, boasting one of the finest spas in the Cotswolds. The spa facilities are exceptional, featuring heated indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, steam rooms, and a meticulously curated menu of treatments designed to pamper and rejuvenate. After you’ve reached a state of pure bliss, you’ll find plenty to adore throughout the rest of the hotel, from its vibrant and bold interiors to its delectable dining options.
The team has even enlisted the expertise of Jackson Boxer, the accomplished city chef behind Brunswick House and Orasay, to consult on the menu, and it’s a garden-inspired delight. Savor dishes like fresh-cut vegetables with creamy stracciatella, old spot sausage croquettes, caviar with crisps and sour cream (an extraordinary combination), flatbreads for lunch, and succulent roast chicken for dinner – a treat for your taste buds.
Prices: From £252 a night
13. The Swan
Bibury, Cirencester GL7 5NW
The Swan is the brainchild of the husband-and-wife hotelier team, Sam and Georgie Pearman. It stands as a rustic hideaway in the heart of Bibury village, offering respite from the hustle and bustle of London, just a few hours away.
You can embark on leisurely, meandering walks through the fields and along country lanes, then return to unwind in a plush velvet armchair by the fireplace. The dining experience is elevated with high-end renditions of classic pub dishes in the art-filled dining room.
Upstairs, you’ll find eight bedrooms that fully embrace the cozy and historic ambiance, complete with wooden beams and indulgent roll-top bathtubs, perfect for soaking in after a muddy stroll through the countryside.
Prices from: £135
14. Lucknam Park
Lucknam Park, Chippenham SN14 8AZ
Lucknam Park exudes classical opulence, with interiors adorned in marble, silk, and floral designs. The hushed Michelin-starred restaurant and lavish ESPA spa add to the overall allure of this grand Cotswolds estate. The Georgian manor house stands regally at the end of a beech tree-lined avenue, and the tranquil grounds provide ample opportunities for exploration. Some of the finest bedrooms feature four-poster beds, mahogany writing desks, and crackling fireplaces. Additionally, a secluded cottage nestled within the grounds caters to families seeking a tranquil escape from the everyday.
When it comes to dining, you have two distinct (and differently priced) options. The Brasserie, located in the newer spa building, offers a laid-back ambiance with light wood accents. On the other hand, Restaurant Hywel Jones, with its Michelin star, sets the stage for a refined dining experience. The evening begins with a cocktail in the serene lounge, and the dress code is elegantly enforced. Should you wish to explore beyond the estate, Bath is just a few miles away.
Price: From £424 a night
15. The Rectory Hotel
The Rectory Hotel, Crudwell, Malmesbury SN16 9EP
Situated not far from Cirencester, The Rectory Hotel is an ambitious and tranquil retreat with 12 inviting bedrooms. The hotel’s ambiance is an oasis of calm, featuring soft and soothing color palettes. The beds are adorned with fine Egyptian bed linen, the baths are delightfully deep, and the power showers are highly effective. Guests can pamper themselves with bathroom products from Arran Aromatics, and every room provides views of the Victorian gardens. The hotel’s restaurant has earned a reputation for its diverse menu, which combines familiar favorites with contemporary touches, embracing ingredients like dukkah, seaweed butter, and tonka beans while maintaining a comforting, old-fashioned heartiness.
Breakfast, featuring options like waffles, a full English, and sourdough-and-avocado creations, is served in the light-filled and charming Glasshouse, adorned with a pretty herringbone brick floor.
Prices: From £160 per night
16. No. 131
131 Promenade, Cheltenham GL50 1NW
No. 131, located in the charming Cotswolds town of Cheltenham, is a stylish and lively boutique hotel set within a grand Georgian villa that faces the Imperial Gardens. This welcoming gem offers a unique touch with freshly baked goods awaiting guests in their rooms upon arrival. The hotel boasts a restaurant that serves modern European dishes crafted from the finest British ingredients, and a superb cocktail bar where guests can also enjoy a delightful brunch.
The rooms at No. 131 embody a perfect blend of country-house charm and urban-industrial chic, delivering a stylish and comfortable retreat. With modern amenities like Nespresso machines and Apple TV movie libraries, they offer a touch of luxury without overwhelming opulence. No. 131 is a place where style meets comfort, making it a standout choice as one of the most romantic hotels in the cotswolds.
Prices: From £252 a night
17. The Slaughters Manor House
Copsehill Road, Lower Slaughter, Cheltenham GL54 2HP
The Slaughters Manor House, a 17th-century manor located in the picturesque village of Lower Slaughter, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern luxury. The exterior of the manor is enchanting, showcasing its centuries-old heritage, while the interior features eclectic and contemporary design elements.
The manor’s 19 guest rooms and suites are individually styled, each offering a unique character and views of the front lawns and the charming village of Lower Slaughter. Crisp white linen, luxurious beds, and modern bathrooms stocked with L’Occitane skincare products ensure a comfortable stay.
The restaurant at The Slaughters Manor House is renowned for its culinary excellence, featuring menus that showcase the finest Cotswold produce. The dishes are crafted by highly skilled chefs using locally sourced and foraged ingredients, complemented by a curated wine selection from the sommelier.
Prices: from £240 a night
19. Double Red Duke
Bourton Rd, Clanfield, Bampton OX18 2RB
The Double Red Duke is a 17th-century former coaching inn located in the charming village of Clanfield, which serves as a gateway to the Cotswolds. This rustic-luxe rural hideaway is part of Sam and Georgie Pearlman’s collection of Country Creatures, known for revamping pubs with a metropolitan sheen while retaining their historic charm. The inn is adorned with wisteria, modern art, plush velvet ruby-hued fabrics, and cozy reading nooks, creating a unique blend of old and new.
The rooms are designed with retro stylings, including turquoise Bakelite telephones and Marshall radios playing classical music upon arrival. Bathrooms are adorned with jaunty geometric red and white tiling, and the spa, which is now open, offers treatments using 100 Acres products.
Price: From £185 per night
20. No. 38 The Park
38 Evesham Rd, Cheltenham GL52 2AH
No. 38 The Park is a stylish boutique hotel located in the leafy and more residential area of Cheltenham. It offers a unique blend of a smart B&B and a hip boutique hotel, with a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, read the Sunday papers in the sitting room, and even mix your own drinks from the well-stocked honesty bar in the hall.
The hotel features 13 gorgeous rooms with funky wallpaper, spacious and comfortable beds, clawfoot bathtubs, and his and hers showers. Rooms at the front of the hotel offer lovely views over Pitville Park, adding to the charm of the stay.
No. 38 The Park is part of The Lucky Onion group, known for its design-led Cotswolds hotels, restaurants, and country pubs. A local favorite, The Tavern, is just a short walk away, offering seasonal European dishes in a rustic-chic setting. For pre- or post-supper drinks, guests can head to Gin & Juice, an opulent gin bar at the hotel’s nearby sister property, No. 131, which boasts a selection of over 350 types of gin from around the world.
Prices: From £120 per night
Best hotels in Cotswolds for couples FAQs
Which is best part of Cotswolds to stay?
The best part of Cotswolds to stay in depends on your preferences and interests. If you’re looking for a picturesque village with a serene atmosphere and beautiful landscapes, then the village of Bourton-on-the-Water is an ideal choice. It’s often referred to as the Venice of the Cotswolds due to its charming stone bridges and the River Windrush flowing through the village. If you’re a fan of historic architecture and traditional charm, then the town of Stow-on-the-Wold may be more to your liking. It offers a market square surrounded by old buildings, quaint tea rooms, and unique shops. For those seeking a lively atmosphere and a range of amenities, the town of Cheltenham is a great option, with its vibrant street scene, diverse dining options, and cultural attractions. Ultimately, the best part of Cotswolds to stay in will depend on what you’re looking for in a getaway.
Where is the nicest place in the Cotswolds?
The Cotswolds is known for its picturesque villages and stunning landscapes, but one of the nicest places in this beautiful region is the town of Bourton-on-the-Water. Often referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” this charming village is famous for its idyllic bridges that cross the tranquil River Windrush. Visitors can wander along the riverbanks, stroll through the village’s quaint streets, and admire the traditional honey-colored stone buildings. Bourton-on-the-Water also offers a range of attractions, including the Model Village, Birdland, and the Cotswold Motoring Museum, making it an ideal destination for families and travelers of all ages. With its beautiful scenery and abundance of things to see and do, Bourton-on-the-Water is undeniably one of the nicest places to visit in the Cotswolds. Whether you’re looking to relax in a peaceful setting or explore the region’s rich history and culture, this charming village has something to offer to all who visit.
Where do celebrities stay in the Cotswolds?
The Cotswolds have become a popular destination for celebrities looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Some of the most well-known celebrities have been spotted staying in various luxury hotels and accommodations throughout the area. One popular spot for celebrity sightings is the Ellenborough Park Hotel, a five-star luxury hotel that has attracted the likes of David and Victoria Beckham, as well as members of the royal family. Another favorite among celebrities is the Soho Farmhouse, a private members’ club and hotel that offers a secluded and exclusive retreat for those in the spotlight. The picturesque countryside and charming villages of the Cotswolds provide the perfect backdrop for celebrities seeking privacy and relaxation. With its luxurious accommodations and serene surroundings, it’s no wonder that the Cotswolds have become a go-to destination for those looking for a lavish and peaceful escape.
