South West England
Red Star Hotels
AA inspector recommendations
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AA Red Stars are awarded by our team of inspectors, who have an unrivalled wealth of experience when it comes to recognising top-class hospitality.
Red Star hotels stand out as the very best in the UK. They offer excellent standards of quality, and outstanding levels of hospitality and service. Our guide features all the AA’s Red Star-rated hotels in the South West of England, and includes the counties of Devon, Dorset, Cornwall, Gloucestershire, Somerset, and Wiltshire.
Our inspectors’ insights feature throughout this guide – you can read more reviews and recommendations on AA RatedTrips.com
© 2023 AA Media Limited 1st edition May 2023
CONTENTS
Barnsley House
The Bath Priory Hotel, Restaurant & Spa
Beechfield House
Bovey Castle
Bowood Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort
Buckland Manor
Calcot Spa
Driftwood
Gidleigh Park
The Greenway Hotel & Spa
Hell Bay Hotel
Homewood
Lords of the Manor
Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa
The Painswick
THE PIG at Combe
THE PIG at Harlyn Bay
THE PIG near Bath
THE PIG on the Beach
The Queensberry Hotel
The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa
The Scarlet Hotel
The Slaughters Manor House
Tudor Farmhouse Hotel & Restaurant
Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa
The Scarlet Hotel
The Bath Priory Hotel, Restaurant & Spa
The Painswick
The Queensberry Hotel Barnsley House
Barnsley House
Cotswold country house packed with luxury and thoughtful touches
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Near Cirencester, BARNSLEY, GL7 5EE, Gloucestershire 01285 740000
reception@barnsleyhouse.com
www.barnsleyhouse.com
This delightful Cotswold country house has been appointed to the highest standards of quality and comfort. Individually styled bedrooms come in a range of shapes and sizes, from the large character rooms in the main house to the more contemporary-style stable rooms. The delightful gardens produce much of the fruit and vegetables used in The Potager restaurant. In the grounds, the Garden Spa has treatment rooms, sauna, steam room and an outdoor hydrotherapy pool.
Our inspector loves
• The hotel’s own cinema room, ideal for movie night
• Stylish and engaging interior design throughout
• Lovely gardens with a relaxing pool area
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The Bath Priory Hotel, Restaurant & Spa
Worth seeking out for the stunning design and awardwinning food
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Weston Road, Bath, BA1 2XT, Somerset 01225 331922
info@thebathpriory.co.uk
www.thebathpriory.co.uk
This country house is set in four acres of beautiful grounds. It features a luxury spa, and the Priory Restaurant that serves modern European cuisine, created from the very finest local produce and seasonal fruit, vegetables and herbs from their property’s own garden. The Mediterranean-style spa features an indoor heated swimming pool with pool-side sauna and modern steam pod. Luxury beauty treatments are also available by appointment.
Our Inspector loves
• A great location, just a short stroll into Bath
• Great character and distinction; charm and appeal in equal measure
• Noteworthy art from the owners’ own collection
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Beechfield House
A charming, privately-owned hotel set in eight acres of beautiful grounds
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Beanacre, Melksham, SN12 7PU, Wiltshire 01225 703700
reception@beechfieldhouse.co.uk www.beechfieldhouse.co.uk
Beechfield House is a charming, privately-owned hotel set in eight acres of beautiful grounds including its own arboretum. Bedrooms are individually styled and include fourposter rooms, and ground-floor rooms in the coach house. Relaxing public areas are comfortably furnished and there’s a beauty salon with a range of pampering treatments. At dinner the emphasis is on seasonal and local produce. Family and dog friendly.
Our inspector loves
• Elegant and historic design, décor and furniture
• Relaxing outdoor area with heated pool and loungers
• Croquet lawn and football goals for family fun
O
Bovey Castle
Classic and peaceful countryside castle with an award-winning golf course
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Moretonhampstead, TQ13 8RE, Devon 01647 445000
info@boveycastle.com
www.boveycastle.com
Bovey Castle is a relaxed and welcoming hotel, set in 275 acres of peaceful Devonshire countryside, which includes an award-winning, 18-hole championship golf course. Bedrooms are elegant, spacious, and stylish, while leisure facilities are extensive and include a pool, spa and shop. Fine dining is available in the Great Western Grill while a more casual style of eating is offered in Smith’s Brasserie. Cocktail bar and lounges are also available.
Our inspector loves
• Relaxing public areas, with beautifully considered décor
• Plenty to do, including archery, clay pigeon shooting and fishing
• Stunning spa facilities and plenty of top-notch dining options
O
Bowood Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort
A championship course at a year-around resort
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Derry Hill, Calne, SN11 9PQ, Wiltshire 01249 822228
hotelreception@bowood.org
www.bowood.org/bowood-hotel-resort
Bowood Hotel’s enviable range of facilities make it a year-round resort. It sits on the Bowood Estate – over 100 acres of ‘Capability’ Brown designed parkland with formal and woodland gardens as well as an adventure playground. Golfers will enjoy the renowned championship course that meanders through woodland, by streams and across an undulating landscape. Bedrooms were designed by Lady Lansdowne with countryhouse styling bought right up to date.
Our inspector loves
• Relaxing spa with infinity swimming pool, jacuzzi, and more
• A strong sustainability programme; tree planting and biomass heating
• Excellent adventure playground facilities for children
O
Buckland Manor
Hits all the right notes for a relaxing getaway
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Buckland, Broadway, WR12 7LY, Gloucestershire 01386 852626
info@bucklandmanor.co.uk www.bucklandmanor.co.uk
Buckland Manor is a grand 13thcentury manor house, surrounded by well-kept and beautiful gardens that feature a stream and waterfall. Spacious bedrooms and public areas are furnished with high quality pieces and decorated in keeping with the style of the manor. The elegant dining room, with views over the rolling hills, is the perfect place to enjoy dishes that use excellent local produce.
Our inspector loves
• A peaceful countryside location
• Delightful grounds, well-kept and relaxing
• Afternoon tea; a real pleasure in the summer
O
Calcot & Spa
Unique luxury in an English farmhouse
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Near Tetbury, GL8 8YJ, Gloucestershire 01666 890391 reception@calcot.co www.calcot.co
Cistercian monks built the ancient barns and stables around which this lovely English farmhouse is set. No two rooms are identical, and each is beautifully decorated and equipped with modern comforts. Sumptuous sitting rooms, with crackling log fires in the winter, look out over immaculate gardens. There are two dining options: the elegant conservatory restaurant and the informal Gumstool Inn. There’s also a health and leisure spa, a supervised crèche and a ‘playzone’.
Our inspector loves
• The pleasant grounds and gardens with walks from the door
• The family-friendly aspects, making children welcome
• Bright, comfortable and spacious rooms and suites
O
Driftwood
Secluded cliffside hotel that ticks all the right boxes
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Rosevine, Portscatho, TR2 5EW, Cornwall 01872 580644
info@driftwoodhotel.co.uk
www.driftwoodhotel.co.uk
Poised on the cliff side with panoramic views, Driftwood is a contemporary hotel where a warm welcome is guaranteed. Cuisine is at the heart of any stay, with quality local produce used in a sympathetic and highly skilled way. The extremely comfortable and elegant bedrooms are decorated in soft shades reminiscent of the seashore, and there’s a sheltered terraced garden with a large deck for sunbathing.
Our inspector loves
• The friendly atmosphere and the committed team
• A footpath leads from the hotel to a private beach
• Luxurious afternoon tea with outstanding cakes
O
Gidleigh Park
World-renowned country house in beautiful grounds
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Chagford, TQ13 8HH, Devon 01647 432367
info@gidleigh.co.uk
www.gidleigh.co.uk
Built in 1928, and set in 107 acres of lovingly tended grounds, Gidleigh Park retains a timeless charm and an endearing, homely atmosphere. Some of the individually styled bedrooms have balconies and many enjoy panoramic views. There are spa suites, a loft suite ideal for families, and the stunning thatched Pavilion in the grounds. Spacious public areas feature antique furniture, beautiful flower arrangements and magnificent artwork, all topped off with cuisine of the highest order.
Our inspector loves
• Wonderful grounds with mature woodland and babbling brook
• A destination restaurant working closely with local suppliers
• Stunning bedrooms; Sumptuous comfort with wonderful views
• Wine list of note, and afternoon tea in the lounge or on the terrace
O
The Greenway Hotel & Spa
A traditional and luxurious country house within reach of the Cotswolds
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Shurdington, Cheltenham, GL51 4UG, Gloucestershire
01242 862352
info@thegreenway.co.uk
www.thegreenwayhotelandspa.com
This historic hotel is peacefully located within easy reach of the Cotswolds and the M5. Recently refurbished, the bedrooms are luxuriously appointed and come with enhanced period features. Up-to-the-minute spa facilities are also a major draw. The attractive restaurant overlooks the sunken garden and is the venue for excellent eye-catching dishes, proudly served by dedicated and attentive staff, who are focused on providing a positive guest experience.
Our inspector loves
• Lovely walks around the grounds and gardens
• A peaceful countryside setting, just minutes from Cheltenham
• Excellent cuisine in an elegant dining room
O
Hell Bay Hotel
An arty hotel off the beaten track on the smallest inhabited Scilly Isle
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Bryher, TR23 0PR, Isles of Scilly 01720 422947 contactus@hellbay.co.uk www.hellbay.co.uk
Hell Bay Hotel is located on the smallest of the inhabited Scilly Isles. The owners have filled the hotel with original works of art by artists who have connections with the islands. The interior is decorated in cool blues and greens creating an extremely restful environment. The contemporary bedrooms are equally stylish, and many have garden access and stunning sea views. Eating here is a delight, and naturally, seafood features strongly on the daily-changing menus.
Our inspector loves
• Incredible views and breath-taking sunsets
• Peaceful location on a beautiful, unspoilt island
• Delicious Bryher crab on the menu
O
Homewood
A relaxing hotel with a luxurious spa
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Abbey Lane, Freshford, Bath, BA2 7TB, Somerset 01225 723731
reception@homewoodbath.co.uk
www.homewoodbath.co.uk
Homewood has a delightful location in attractive parkland, close to Bath and the Longleat estate. The delightful terrace is ideal for outdoor dining, while bedrooms are stylishly and comfortably appointed, and often enjoy splendid countryside views. The spa and leisure facilities are notable, and a meal in the Olio restaurant should not be missed.
Our inspector loves
• High standards of service that are both relaxed and welcoming
• Quality bedrooms and bathrooms
• Wonderful mix of Georgian splendour and modern facilities
O
Lords of the Manor
Guests are reluctant to leave this Cotswold country house
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Upper Slaughter, Cheltenham, GL54 2JD, Gloucestershire 01451 820243
reservations@lordsofthemanor.com www.lordsofthemanor.com
This wonderfully welcoming 17thcentury manor house hotel sits in eight acres of gardens and parkland surrounded by beautiful Cotswold countryside. A relaxed atmosphere, underpinned by professional and attentive service is the hallmark here, and guests are often reluctant to leave. The hotel has elegant public rooms that overlook the immaculate lawns, and the restaurant is the venue for consistently impressive cuisine.
Our inspector loves
• The large range of quality bedrooms and bathrooms
• The peaceful Cotswold village location
• Top quality dining at the Atrium restaurant
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Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa
Palladian mansion in vast parkland offering a unique experience
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Colerne, Chippenham, SN14 8AZ, Wiltshire 01225 742777
reservations@lucknampark.co.uk www.lucknampark.co.uk
Approaching this Palladian mansion along the magnificent mile-long avenue of beech and lime trees, builds a wonderful sense of anticipation. Surrounded by 500 acres of parkland and beautiful gardens, Lucknam Park offers a wealth of options ranging from pampered relaxation in the indulgent spa to more energetic equestrian pursuits. Dining choices range from the informal Brasserie to the formal and very accomplished main restaurant, Restaurant Hywel Jones. For anyone with a passion for food, the cookery school is also worth investigating.
Our Inspector loves
• Grand country house hotel with a long winding driveway
• A choice of AA Rosetted restaurants
• Elegant bedrooms and suites in the main house or the courtyard
O
Northcote Manor and Spa
A warm welcome in a charming setting
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Burrington, EX37 9LZ, Devon 01769 560501
rest@northcotemanor.co.uk
northcotemanor.co.uk
Northcote Manor was built in 1716 and is surrounded by 20 acres of grounds and woodlands. Guests can enjoy wonderful views over the Taw River Valley and a meal in either the intimate, more formal Manor House Restaurant, or the Walled Garden Restaurant; both offer menus of the finest local produce used in wellprepared dishes. Bedrooms, including some suites, are individually styled, spacious and well appointed.
Our inspector loves
• A genuinely warm welcome from an excellent team
• A range of treatments at the luxurious, modern spa
• Charming orchards and gardens, ideal for gentle strolling
O
The Painswick
A great mix of overall quality, relaxed atmosphere, and excellent location
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Kemps Lane, Painswick, GL6 6YB, Gloucestershire 01452 813688
enquiries@thepainswick.co.uk
www.thepainswick.co.uk
Built in the 18th century, the Painswick has had a varied history, having served as a vicarage, a guest house and most recently, a hotel and restaurant. The ornate architecture has been preserved, with the old chapel still evident and many aspects of the Arts and Crafts era still in place. The Hearth is a modern take on afternoon tea, showcasing the best local and home-made produce, including pork pies, Scotch eggs and the lightest of scones.
Our inspector loves
• The peaceful village location and the delightful views
• Excellent cuisine and wonderful breakfast
• Charming Arts & Crafts décor style
O
THE PIG at Combe
Staff engagement shines through as the close-knit team offer genuine hospitality
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Giltisham, Honiton, EX14 3AD, Devon 01404 540400
info@thepigatcombe.com www.thepighotel.com/at-combe
This mellow, honey-coloured Elizabethan manor sits in the beautiful Otter Valley near Honiton. An old garden folly has been semi-restored to create an atmospheric indoor/outdoor bar and dining area with its own woodfired oven. Bedrooms and are in the main house as well as former stables and cottages in the grounds. The kitchen’s truly local provenance policy is inspiring; what doesn’t come from the three walled gardens is sourced within a 25-mile radius.
Our inspector loves
• Historic house with wonderful period features
• Unpretentious food sourced locally
• Comfortable bedrooms full of character
O
THE PIG at Harlyn Bay
Enjoy stunning views of the Cornish coastline from this beautiful house.
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Harlyn Bay, Padstow, PL28 8SQ, Cornwall 01841 550240
info@thepigatharlynbay.com www.thepighotel.com/at-harlyn-bay
THE PIG at Harlyn Bay has a spectacular location with stunning views of the Cornish coast. The house dates to the 15th century, and a sensitive transformation has retained as much character as possible. Bedrooms are split between the main house, the Stonehouse (rooms situated around a stone courtyard) and the Garden Wagons. Food options are equally appealing, with much produce coming from the bountiful kitchen garden. The gardens and grounds are beguiling, with herbs and flower filled borders adding colour and fragrance.
Our inspector loves
• The Lobster Shed outdoor chargrilled dining
• Potting Shed Treatment Rooms offer relaxing treatments
• A great selection of cocktails
O
THE PIG near Bath
Comfortable, quirky and very very welcoming iii
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Hunstrete House, Pensford, Hunstrete, BS39 4NS, Somerset 01761 490490
reservations@thepighotel.com www.thepighotel.com/near-bath
This charming country house is set in delightful grounds with its own deer park, livestock and a walled garden. Bedrooms come in an array of shapes and sizes; some in the main house, some around the courtyard, and others in beautifully converted garden ‘sheds’. All are spacious, have high quality fixtures, and come with larders and Nespresso machines. There are plenty of comfortable lounges, and treatments can be taken in the potting shed.
Our inspector loves
• The elegant and engaging décor
• The abundance of the walled kitchen garden
• The welcoming bar serving the best of local spirits and more
O
THE PIG on the Beach
Fabulously creative accommodation dotted amongst splendid gardens
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The Manor House, Manor Road, Studland, BH19 3AU, Dorset
01929 450288
info@thepigonthebeach.com
www.thepighotel.com/on-the-beach
This former summer house set in beautiful grounds has a dramatic coastal location. They rear their own livestock, including pigs and chickens, and lots of produce comes from the walled garden. Bedrooms come in an array of shapes and sizes – some in the main house and some feature rooms in outbuildings. There are also plenty of comfortable lounges, including a cosy cocktail lounge. Treatments can be taken in the two shepherd’s huts, and The Roundhouse is ideal for private dining in a peaceful garden setting.
Our inspector loves
• A five-minute walk to a lovely beach
• Creative décor and a fine sense of design
• The real sense of welcome and personal attention from staff
O
The Queensberry Hotel
Characterful townhouses in a convenient location near the centre of Bath
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4–7 Russell Street, Bath, BA1 2QF, Somerset 01225 447928
reservations@thequeensberry.co.uk
www.thequeensberry.co.uk
The Queensberry Hotel consists of four townhouses situated in a quiet residential street near the city centre. Sumptuously furnished sitting rooms add to the appeal and allow access to the very attractive and peaceful walled gardens. The Olive Tree Restaurant combines Georgian opulence with contemporary simplicity. Valet parking proves a useful service.
Our inspector loves
• A house fit for the Marquess of Queensberry
• The attentive and knowledgeable team
• Highly seasonal and inventive cuisine
O
The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa
Luxury and comfort in one of Bath’s most iconic buildings
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Bath, BA1 2LS, Somerset 01225 823333
info@royalcrescent.co.uk
www.royalcrescent.co.uk
Set in several houses in Bath’s famous Royal Crescent, this is a really interesting historic hotel. Many bedrooms enjoy views across the city, while public rooms make the most of the building’s character and are styled in keeping with the period. There’s a superb spa and range of leisure facilities, as well as an acre of hidden gardens. The Montagu Bar and Dower House Restaurant offer contemporary dining and are not to be missed.
Our inspector loves
• The subtle mix of modern and historic furnishings and design
• The location, in Bath’s historic Regency splendour
• Beautiful hidden gardens with their rescue hedgehogs
O
The Scarlet Hotel
Highly impressive and ultra stylish eco-hotel
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Tredragon Road, Mawgan Porth, TR8 4DQ, Cornwall 01637 861800
stay@scarlethotel.co.uk
www.scarlethotel.co.uk
A purpose-built eco hotel, this strikingly modern property has a stunning cliff-top location with magnificent views, presenting something a little different. The very stylish and well-equipped bedrooms are categorised in five types: Just Right, Generous, Unique, Spacious and Indulgent. The Ayurvedic spa aims for the rejuvenation of body and mind, but cuisine is equally important, and in tune with the hotel’s environmental policies, daily-changing menus feature fresh, seasonal and local produce.
Our inspector loves
• Impeccable eco credentials without losing any of that Red Star quality
• Comfortable bedrooms with amazing views
• Remarkable futuristic style and decor
O
The Slaughters Manor House
Countryside living with a contemporary twist
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Lower Slaughter, Cheltenham, GL54 2HP, Gloucestershire 01451 820456
info@slaughtersmanor.co.uk
www.slaughtersmanor.co.uk
Built from golden Cotswold stone, the comfortable Slaughters Manor House dates from the 17th century, and offers a stylish 21st-century interpretation of country living, boasting well defined areas, including a snug, billiards room, library and lounge, and a bar in partnership with the Sipsmith distillery. The elegant dining room is an airy, light-filled space with nicely spaced, linen-clad tables, offering impressive explorations of texture and flavour.
Our inspector loves
• The pleasant grounds and gardens including a croquet lawn
• A stylish mix of contemporary and traditional design
• The location in the postcard village of Lower Slaughter
O
Tudor Farmhouse Hotel & Restaurant
A quintessential country farm house with original features
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High Street, Clearwell, GL16 8JS, Gloucestershire
01594 833046
info@tudorfarmhousehotel.co.uk tudorfarmhousehotel.co.uk
Dating from the 13th century, this idyllic former farmhouse retains a host of original features including exposed stonework, oak beams, wall panelling and wonderful inglenook fireplaces. Bedrooms have great individuality and style and are located either in the main house or in converted buildings in the grounds. The creative menus offer excellent cuisine, served in the intimate, candlelit restaurant.
Our inspector loves
• An excellent range of quality cuisine at both dinner and breakfast
• A pleasant village location
• The terrace, ideal for a drink before dinner
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Whatley Manor Hotel and Spa
Relaxed and rewarding guest experience and the most luxurious accommodation
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Easton Grey, Malmesbury, SN16 0RB, Wiltshire
01666 822888 reservations@whatleymanor.com www.whatleymanor.com
Sitting in 12 acres of beautiful countryside, Whatley Manor is an impressive country house with spacious, individually appointed bedrooms, most with garden views. Sustainability is key here. The kitchen runs entirely on renewable electricity, while food waste is either composted, used in the gardens, or sent to an anaerobic digestion plant. Hyperlocality is also important, with beef from a nearby farm and honey from hives in the garden.
Our inspector loves
• Great first impressions, including a long driveway and valet parking
• A culinary destination with two outstanding restaurants
• The intimate spa with stunning suites and hydrotherapy pool
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