For this issue, we’re taking a delightful detour into history with a twist, where the past isn’t just a memory — it’s a feeling. Rest your head where kings and queens once slept, learn from architectural genius George Clarke, discover forgotten fruits and vegetables from our chefs’ kitchen gardens. From the romance of vintage wheels to the evolution of fashion at our most celebrated sporting occasions, we’re diving headfirst into our rich heritage
04 · 2026
In this special edition, we invite you to embark on a journey that brings the past into conversation with the present. At PoB Hotels, history is not only preserved but experienced through ancient tales, striking architecture, enduring traditions, and timeless artisanship, all balanced with the elegance of modern hospitality.
Embrace
Ours is a community of the most inspiring independent hotels, each one carefully selected, each one unique and each the Pride of Britain. As hoteliers, we are craftsmen in our own right- creating the theatre, drama and orchestra to ensure the perfect stay for our guests. We want to inspire you through every stay and experience at our hotels across the British Isles. From elegant tranquillity of an English country house to the rugged beauty of a loch-side estate in the Scottish Highlands, we can personally guarantee an exceptional stay in every single place. We have been matching guests with outstanding experiences for over 40 years. We look forward to helping you discover your new favourite escape.
a historical journey uniquely tailored to you
Mark Chambers
Our 2026 edition, Now & Then, reflects this dialogue between heritage and contemporary life. From the intrigue of Rooms with a Story to Breathing New Life: Architecture with Soul, we explore how the past continues to enrich the present. Alongside our hotel introductions, you will also find features such as Suitcases and Stories, Threads of Tradition, and the culinary revival of Nurturing Lost Ingredients, each shining a light on authentic British experiences that endure.
Mark Chambers Chairman It all began in 1982, when a group of passionate hoteliers joined forces to create an iconic British hotel collection. Led by then industry titan Gerald Milsom, these hoteliers were driven by all things hospitality, quality and creating happy moments for guests. The beauty of the collection then and now remains the celebration of individuality and championing the independent spirit of our hotels. For over 40 years we have followed our inventive spirit and enthusiasm for authentic British adventures. Today, our collection includes distinct hotels across the UK and Channel Islands.
As we present these stories, we also reflect on our own. Founded in 1982, PoB Hotels was created to unite Britain’s most exceptional independent hotels under a shared spirit of individuality,
hospitality, and excellence. More than 40 years on, those principles remain at the heart of all we do. Our collection continues to offer experiences that are personal and deeply rooted in place, while evolving with the expectations of today’s traveller.
This edition can serve as your guide to the British calendar, inspiring escapes that align with the seasons and the occasions that shape our year. Take this copy with you and enjoy its pages as a companion to your travels. It is both a celebration and an invitation: to explore, to indulge, and to discover the traditions and innovations that make Britain extraordinary. We look forward to inspiring your next journey with PoB Hotels.
Our hand-picked hotels offer varied destinations for you to chose from. PoB Hotels vouchers make the perfect gift as they can be redeemed for an unforgettable stay, a delightful meal, or an inspiring experience at any of our hotels. You can peruse “The Handle”, our online magazine for inspiration on travel and much more. To discover our collection, the varied regional breaks, offers or buy a gift, visit our website, sign up to our newsletter and follow us on social –open the door to inspiration!
Kalindi Juneja Chief Executive
Kalindi Juneja | Chief Executive
Hambleton Hall
LLANDUDNO
BodysgallenHall Palé Hall
EAST MIDLANDS
BIRMINGHAM
Kilworth House
SopwellHouse The Athenaeum WhatleyManor
Hartwell House
HEATHROW
GATWICK The Elms Mallory Court EllenboroughPark The Painswick Calcot & Spa The RoyalCrescent
Penmaenuchaf
ABERYSTWYTH
N The Capital The Angel
Grove of Narberth
The Vineyard
Gravetye Manor
Ockenden Manor
BRIGHTON
Bailiffscourt
SOUTHAMPTON
The Montagu Arms The Hari
Homewood
CARDIFF BRISTOL The Priory Park House
Bishopstrow
EXETER
GUERNSEY THE CHANNEL
JERSEY The Relais Henley
The Atlantic Hotel
Bovey Castle
The Headland
The car cars dream to be.
THE 911 SPIRIT 70. PORSCHE. THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTE.
10 ROOMS WITH A STORY
These historic havens are not just places to rest your head, they’re living chapters of British history. From exiled kings to scandalous socialites, their previous inhabitants could tell a very different kind of tale at turndown.
16 ALL ABOARD FOR ADVENTURE
With special events and unique steamtrain experiences across the country, here’s our pick of the best vintage railway spots to transport yourself back in time – and the nearest PoB Hotel to rest your head after your unforgettable journey.
22 VINTAGE WHEELS
Our automotive aficionados at three PoB hotels share the classic-car experiences to discover and the best local drives for a memorable spin.
28 PAST TO PRESENT: TIMELESS EXPERIENCES
Delve into the rich tapestry of the British Isles, where history and heritage come alive through remarkable experiences and evocative destinations.
40 BREATHING NEW LIFE: ARCHITECTURE WITH SOUL
Join architect George Clarke on a PoB Hotels break across the British Isles, as he uncovers underrated architectural gems and natural wonders, from Elizabethan manors to historic abbeys.
46 THE ART OF ENTERTAINING
From the starched linens of yesteryear to the relaxed culinary experiences of today, we trace the captivating evolution of hospitality. It’s a story where timeless charm meets a twist on the usual.
52 NURTURING LOST INGREDIENTS
A quiet food revolution is occurring, mirroring a sustainable trend, where once-forgotten, underused ingredients are sneaking back onto menus with very satisfying results. Of course, the chefs at PoB Hotels are ahead of the curve.
60 STEPS THROUGH HISTORY
Discover the rich heritage and magnificent architecture of Britain’s stately homes and castles when staying at a nearby PoB Hotel. In some cases, you get a unique insight into centuries of history without even stepping out of the hotel door.
68 THE SEASON: FABULOUS FIXTURES
From courtside chic to countryhouse elegance, we journey through the evolution of fashionable days out at some of Britain’s most iconic events.
78 TRAVEL THROUGH THE AGES
The golden age of glamorous travel may be behind us, but that doesn’t mean we can’t replicate it now. Our modern approach to travel hasn’t diminished the excitement; it has merely reshaped it.
86
They’re inspired, are you? Meet our kindred spirits and unofficial insiders who find their sense of belonging at PoB Hotels. Discover what inspires Matt Tebbutt, George Clarke, Gemma Merna and Victoria Pendleton.
88 NOW & THEN
Delve into Now & Then, a four-part journey through the extraordinary pasts of PoB Hotels. Uncover local lore, famous faces, generational sagas, and timeless relics, creating stays steeped in captivating history.
Experience a warm welcome and explore new horizons as you open the door to PoB Hotels' collection of the most exquisite independent hotels across the British Isles.
Be inspired by our collections and treasured keepsakes. We trust you'll relish this book and continue to collect and cherish each volume.
Reading this copy at a PoB Hotel? Then it’s yours to take home!
This edition can serve as your guide to the British calendar, inspiring escapes that align with the seasons and the occasions that shape our year. Take this copy with you and enjoy its pages as a companion to your travels.
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Want to find a specific hotel? Turn to our Hotel Directory on page 118 or see our PoB Hotels at a glance on page 200
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Life President Paul Milsom
Chairman Ross Grieve
Chief Executive Kalindi Juneja
Handle
Published by Contista Media Ltd
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Contributors Amy Bonifas, Sophie Farrah, Emma Henderson, Jane Knight, Natalie Millar-Partridge, Karyn Noble
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We’ve worked hard to ensure the sustainability of our business collateral and this publication has been produced using vegetable oil-based inks, water-based coatings and carbon balanced paper from sustainable and responsibly managed forests. The print process has been tailored to minimise any environmental impact and aligned to the environmental standard of ISO 14001, as well as being FSC certified. As part of The Handle printing process, an additional donation is also made to the World Land Trust towards offsetting the impact of production and distribution.
Once you’ve enjoyed this edition, we encourage you to share it with a friend or keep it and build up on our annual collections that each feature a unique theme to inspire your own journey to responsible travel.
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These historic havens aren’t just places to lay your head — they’re portals into past lives. From exiled kings to scandalous socialites, their previous inhabitants could tell a very different kind of tale at turndown
Words | Jane Knight
You check into some hotel rooms for the view. Others for the elegant decor, the highthread-count sheets or the fact that they have direct access to glorious gardens. And then there are the rooms that come with stories passed down over the centuries, the kind that tug you back through time the moment you turn the key.
These rooms all come with a past –grand, mysterious, or just gently eccentric – where the wallpaper could probably write its own memoir. They might be places where royalty once slept (probably less well than you will), or where historic heavyweights paused for a while.
From grand chambers redolent with Tudor tales to baroque boudoirs, these rooms do more than just host you. They let you play a brief part in a much bigger tale.
At Boringdon Hall in Devon, for instance, another queen with a tragic ending is part of the story. Lady Jane Grey is thought to have lived there as a girl, back when it was
still Boringdon Manor. Her father, the Duke of Suffolk, had just snapped it up in 1549, four years before Jane’s nine-day rule on the throne and subsequent execution.
The suite named after her is a gentler affair, with three floors of soft pastels and exposed stone, its contemporary decor giving a Tudor-meets-boutique feel. At the top of the turret, a bathroom with a freestanding tub and views over the Devon hills is the perfect place to – quite literally – soak up the Tudor history.
At Hartwell House in Buckinghamshire, the story is one of the French court in exile – Louis XVIII of France lived here with his court from 1809 to 1814. During the summer, he slept in what is now The King’s Room, with its regal blues and golds, a four-poster bed, and a bust in his image. While Louis found it a tad too draughty in winter and decamped to what is now part of the Soane Dining Room, there’s no need to worry about staying there these days – central heating has made it much cosier.
Louis got his fairy-tale ending, signing his accession papers in Hartwell’s elegant library before returning to reclaim his crown. His queen, Marie Joséphine, wasn’t so lucky. Her quarters, which you can also book, are now all floral fabrics and sunny window seats overlooking Capability Brown’s grounds. But back then, she was unhappy, felt isolated, and dreaded the grand staircase, where carved figures cast strange shadows at night. Ironically, her portrait now hangs there, next to Louis. She died before Louis’ triumphant return to France.
Fast forward to the Victorian era, and Scotland had become one of the places where the royals hung out. Cue the Fife Arms, a coaching inn in Braemar that pretty much became the unofficial extension of Balmoral. Queen Victoria and Prince Albert reportedly adored the place; a delicate watercolour of a stag’s head by the queen herself is one of 15,000 artworks in the hotel’s vast collection.
The royal suites are as flamboyant as you’d expect: wall-to-wall Victoriana and chintz. The Queen Victoria suite gets top billing, naturally, with its grandly carved bed. Or try the Princess Royal Louise suite, named after Victoria’s granddaughter, where you can sink into a roll-top bath beneath a portrait of the princess herself,
quietly watching over your soak like it’s 1897 and you’re late for afternoon tea.
Another hotel north of the border that doesn’t do minimalism is Prestonfield House, built in 1687 by King’s architect Sir William Bruce, as the private residence of Sir James Dick, Provost of Edinburgh. Today, it’s less whispered luxury, more full-throttle baroque. Among its more surprising guests was Benjamin Franklin – illustrious founding father of the United States, scientist and allround overachiever – who stayed here in the 18th century, presumably without toasting the King. The suite named in his honour is suitably dramatic: trompe-l’œil drapery on the walls, a silver-leaf sleigh king bed, a bathroom tiled in Venetian glass mosaic and, naturally, a bust of the man himself
ROOMS
overseeing it all. Just a few years after British forces surrendered to the Americans in 1782, George III’s favourite son, the Duke of York (yes, the one who marched up hills and down again), was so charmed by the city of Bath that he splashed out £5,000 on a house in the newly created Royal Crescent.
These days, it’s part of The Royal Crescent Hotel, and the Duke’s namesake suite is suitably stately: chandelier, ornate plasterwork, and four-poster.
But the real star of the crescent isn’t the royalty who moved in, but the architect responsible for the grand sweep of buildings – not to mention the Hot Bath, the Assembly Rooms and the nearby Circus; the latter built to plans drawn up by his father. John Wood the Younger naturally
has a suite named after him, and from its fourposter, tucked into an alcove, you can drink it all in — Georgian ambition, architectural vision and, should you wish, a decadent glass of fizz.
Elsewhere in the hotel, the Elizabeth Montagu suite and Montagu’s Mews fine dining restaurant are named after the bluestocking socialite and brains behind one of Georgian Britain’s most influential intellectual salons. A former inhabitant of No. 16 on the crescent (now part of the hotel), she was also a cousin by marriage to Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, whose own writing caused a scandal or two and who briefly lived further north in York’s Middlethorpe Hall.
These days it’s a National Trust property and hotel, all manicured gardens and sash windows, but you can still imagine Lady Mary sitting at the window seat in her namesake suite, gazing out over the beech avenue before scribbling down something
Istabraq Suite, Ellenborough Park,
‘At Ellenborough Park... one longstanding legend involves a lady of the house, a secret tunnel leading from the gazebo to the fireplace, and a regular flow of discreet evening visitors.’
delightfully barbed at the writing desk.
Her verdict on the place? “’Tis a very pretty house.” That still holds. There couldn’t be a better place to read Sean Lusk’s book, A Woman of Opinion, which tells the tale of this irrepressible heroine.
But not every historic room comes with a plaque and a protagonist. At Ellenborough Park, a handsome 15th-century manorturned-hotel in the Cotswolds, the tales are more whispered than written. One longstanding legend involves a lady of the
house, a secret tunnel leading from the gazebo to the fireplace, and a regular flow of discreet evening visitors. The tunnel’s now blocked up, but the Istabraq Suite still stirs the imagination with its four-poster bed, all-over oak panelling and another hidden door, this one leading (rather more innocently) down to breakfast.
The room might not come with a royal tale or a crown connection, but like its fellow historic havens, it has a story that will stay with you long after checkout
With special events and unique steam-train experiences across the country, here’s our pick of the best vintage railway spots to transport yourself back in time – and the nearest PoB Hotel to rest your head after your unforgettable journey
Words | Amy Bonifas
When the world’s first passenger steam train embarked on its journey from Stockton to Darlington 200 years ago, it didn’t just usher in a new era of movement – it launched a golden age of glamour. Elegant train travel made seaside getaways to places like Blackpool and Brighton suddenly accessible, and the rise of the railways spurred a boom in grand hotels and luxury leisure. Suddenly, a change of scenery and fresh sea air were just a ticket away.
This new kind of adventure brought enormous cultural change, fueling the
romanticism of the great British escape and creating a new kind of traveller: the leisureseeking socialite. Railway companies even built their own lavish hotels to accommodate this booming travel class.
Fast forward to today, and we’re seeing a grand revival of rail travel. Scenic routes are now at the top of travel wish lists for a new generation of style-conscious and eco-aware adventurers.
Here, we’ve curated a list of the most iconic vintage train experiences, from steampowered journeys to idyllic heritage lines. There’s never been a better time to plan a railway adventure, blending nostalgia with a greener way to see the world in style
Our pick of the best steam-train spots to transport yourself back in time
Words | Amy Bonifas
Experience the ‘Hogwarts Express’ in Scotland
▸ There’s magic in the air on the Jacobite Steam Train, which famously stars as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. Running for 84 miles on a return journey between Fort William and Mallaig, this steam-powered adventure takes in some of the most spectacular scenery in the Scottish Highlands. The showstopper moment comes as you cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct – a sweeping curve of 21 stone arches, set against mountains and lochs – just like in the films.
▸ Fingal, a five-star floating hotel permanently berthed in Edinburgh’s historic port of Leith – you can coach or train from Edinburgh to Fort William to begin this epic train journey.
Take a ride on the world’s oldest railway in Gateshead
▸ Operating since 1725, the historic Tanfield Railway route winds through a beautifully preserved stretch of northeast countryside, including a spectacular wooded valley and the world’s oldest surviving railway bridge. The six-mile round trip is a gentle, scenic adventure on restored heritage trains – a real joy for history lovers and families alike. And don’t miss a visit to the world’s oldest working engine shed, where dedicated volunteers bring the story of early rail travel to life.
▸ Pair the journey with the coastal spa resort, Seaham Hall, just a short drive from the railway.
Explore the picturesque Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) in vintage style
▸ Hop aboard the Blaenavon Heritage Railway, set within the UNESCO-listed Blaenavon Industrial Landscape at the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park. This heritage line offers steam and vintage diesel services across nearly three miles of track, passing through the heart of a World Heritage Site. With four characterful stations and a rolling calendar of familyfriendly events, like the Annual Steam Gala or Halloween ghost trains, it’s a charming way to explore South Wales’ industrial and natural beauty.
▸ Base yourself in Abergavenny at The Angel Hotel and enjoy fine dining and afternoon tea.
Steam ahead through the Sussex countryside
▸ One of the earliest preserved steam railways in the country, the Bluebell Railway runs through the idyllic Sussex countryside between Sheffield Park and East Grinstead. With its lovingly restored locomotives and carriages, this heritage line is a nostalgic journey, and the railway also offers a range of immersive experiences – from handson footplate rides to elegant dining trains. The landscape rolls by in soft greens and golds, with every station stop providing a glimpse of timeless rural charm.
▸ The Elizabethan Ockenden Manor Hotel is perfectly placed in Cuckfield, West Sussex, with a spa and beautiful grounds.
Hop on & off Hampshire’s picturesque heritage line
▸ Embark on a nostalgic journey through 10 miles of beautiful Hampshire countryside on The Watercress Line, running parallel to the South Downs National Park. With connections between the towns of Alresford and Alton, including Medstead & Four Marks and Ropley, you can visit all four heritage stations, each with plenty of period charm and historic villages to explore. Or, book onto a special event – from behind-the-scenes engineering tours to teddy bears’ picnics and days out with Thomas the Tank Engine.
▸ Hole up in the country house comfort of Park House Hotel in Midhurst, where you can add vineyard tastings and spa treatments to your stay.
Automotive aficionados at three PoB hotels share the classic car experiences to discover and the best local drives for a memorable spin
Words | Amy Bonifas
Calling all motor enthusiasts – we’ve found the ultimate places for stepping back in time and immersing yourself in the romance of a bygone motoring age. From exploring picturesque country roads in a perioddefining classic to taking on celebrated, historic icons in a virtual race, these hotels offer all this and more. So, if you’re ready to add a touch of nostalgia to your next adventure, buckle up and let’s go….
Set in the picturesque village of Beaulieu in the New Forest, this charming hotel is just a short walk from the National Motor Museum – home to over 280 historic vehicles, including land-speed record-breakers, classic British marques, and Formula One icons. The surrounding area presents scenic drives through open heathland, ancient
woodland, and idyllic villages. But the cherry on top is the Montagu Arms’ luxury classiccar breaks. “Combining the excitement of classic motoring with the elegance of a countryside retreat, the experience includes dinner, tickets to the museum and the opportunity to take the wheel of one of several iconic vehicles,” says Davide Santocono, General Manager.
Choosing the right car is part of the fun. “The Jaguar E-Type is a true motoring icon, offering timeless design and a smooth, memorable drive through the forest roads. The 1966 Ford Mustang delivers classic American muscle and a strong road presence, making it a favourite for those after something bold and nostalgic.
“For a completely different option, the Morgan 3-Wheeler offers a thrilling and open-air experience – a quirky and unforgettable drive that always leaves a lasting impression,” says Davide. There’s even the resident 1967 Mini Moke to test out if you wish!
“One of the most rewarding routes from The Montagu Arms begins right in Beaulieu and takes you on a scenic loop through the heart of the New Forest,” says Davide. “From the hotel, head towards Lyndhurst, considered the ‘capital’ of the New Forest, via the B3056 – a wonderfully open road that winds through heathland dotted with wild ponies and deer. This stretch is perfect for enjoying the rhythm of a classic car, with gentle curves and far-reaching views. In Lyndhurst, car lovers can admire an impressive collection of Ferraris at the Meridien Modena garage on the High Street.
“Continue to the village of Burley, known for its tearooms and stories of smuggling and witchcraft. From there, drive on to Brockenhurst via Rhinefield Ornamental Drive, one of the forest’s most beautiful stretches. Towering redwoods and ancient oaks line this peaceful, tree-canopied road. And of course, the drive is best finished with a drink on the terrace back at The Montagu Arms.”
Llyn Trawsfynydd
“One of our favourites is the route that heads west through Bala and up into the dramatic mountain roads of Snowdonia, passing Llyn Trawsfynydd and descending through the forests of Coed y Brenin,” says Marketing Director of Palé Hall, Lizzy Lucas.
“The scenery is both cinematic and ever-changing – from rugged peaks to peaceful lakes. A stop at the Mach Loop lookout point (a training area for RAF fast jets) is a unique highlight, as is a detour to the Tegid Trail or the charming town of Dolgellau for coffee and a stroll.”
Palé Hall is set on the edge of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, and the roads surrounding the hotel are some of the most scenic and breathtaking in the UK – ideal for taking vintage and performance cars for a spin.
“Just a short drive from the main house, The Bryntirion Inn – our estate pub – perfectly complements our motoring offering,” says Marketing Director, Lizzy Lucas. “Originally a local village pub, it has been lovingly restored to reflect our love of cars, with plenty of automotive memorabilia.”
During your stay, the Bentley chauffeur
experience allows you to sit back and enjoy the views with a bespoke route tailored to your interests – whether that’s winding mountain passes, lakeside drives or charming Welsh villages.
Or, go all-in and book one of the Wonder of Wales weekends at Palé Hall. “Held twice a year, these are two-night events with fine dining and thrilling drives through the dramatic landscape,” says Lizzy. “Bringing together curated driving routes and delicious menus created by our Head Chef, Ed Marsh, these events are all about connection – with the road, other car enthusiasts and the beauty of North Wales.”
▸ While looking for the ultimate motoring break, you might also enjoy the exclusive Drive & Stay experience at Park House Hotel & Spa in rural Midhurst, West Sussex. Take the wheel of a beautifully restored classic car. Cruise the scenic countryside with beautiful views of the South Downs National Park in style at the helm of a timeless Porsche 356 Speedster, a rugged and ready Land Rover Series 3, or a charmingly retro Morris Minor 1000. Or, for a taste of Italian dolce vita, why not choose the lovingly restored 1969 Fiat 500? Ciao bella! Explore the rolling hills and charming villages at your own pace – then, following a day of open-road freedom, return to the comfort of Park House to relax in the lounges or on the terraces. Enjoy a restorative night’s sleep in a country-house style Master Bedroom, followed by a delicious breakfast.
▸ Luxury vintage-car breaks at The Montagu Arms include dinner, museum tickets, and the opportunity to drive iconic vehicles.
▸ Wonder of Wales weekends at Palé Hall include fine dining and thrilling drives.
▸ Supercar Sunday at Grantley Hall (set to return in 2026) and the Grantley Motorsport immersive racing experience includes a BATAK reaction wall and a professional racing simulator.
Located on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, Grantley Hall is a dream destination for vintage-car enthusiasts. Set within a stunning 17th-century estate surrounded by immaculate grounds, it not only places you at the heart of some of the UK’s most scenic driving routes, but it’s also the perfect backdrop for their annual event – Supercar Sunday. Featuring rare and iconic cars, both vintage and modern, alongside live music, it’s the ideal opportunity to network with fellow collectors.
“In 2025, we hosted over 560 vehicles with a combined value exceeding £100 million,” says Paul Boulton, Lifestyle Manager and expert racing coach. “Guests can admire everything from modern supercars to historic racing motors like a 1969 Ford GT40 replica –built to Carroll Shelby’s Le Mans–winning specs, with a 302 CID V8 engine, no less. Supercar Sunday is set to return for 2026. Keep an eye out for dates!”
Then, there’s the Grantley Motorsport immersive racing experience. “This is designed for everyone – from beginners to motorsport enthusiasts. The journey begins with a high-energy challenge on the BATAK reaction wall, where guests test their speed against elite athletes.
“You can then step into the professional racing simulator, where you can drive a selection of dream cars – ranging from high-performance supercars to iconic racing machines –on simulated world-famous racetracks.”
“The best route depends on your vehicle, but for a fantastic two-hour drive, I recommend a circular route up through and to Stokesley, then back down past Rievaulx Abbey,” says Paul.
“This will take you through some of the finest driving roads in the North York Moors. You’ll enjoy wide-open views and clear visibility. There’s also a lovely stop in Helmsley along the way. These roads tend to be quieter than those in the Yorkshire Dales.”
Delve into the rich tapestry of the British Isles, where history and heritage come alive through remarkable experiences and evocative destinations — places where the past isn’t just remembered — it’s lived
Words | Sophie Farrah
Araminta Campbell is a luxury Scottish brand celebrated for its exquisite hand- and mill- woven textiles, created with a deep commitment to artistry, sustainability, and heritage. Through every thread, it seeks to showcase the extraordinary breadth and depth of Scotland’s textile tradition and to honour and preserve centuries-old skills, proving that exceptional artisanship and contemporary design can beautifully coexist. The PoB Hotels gift collection also features bespoke scarves from Araminta, designed as a beautiful keepsake of your travels. Growing up amid the riverbanks and heather-clad hills of Royal Deeside, founder Araminta Birse-Stewart (née
Campbell) found inspiration in her surroundings and turned to weaving as a way of capturing Scotland through storytelling with thread. At the brand’s castlelike atelier just outside Edinburgh, visitors can enjoy a rare and intimate private shopping experience that goes behind the scenes of one of Scotland’s most unique artisan workshops, while discovering the artistry behind the luxurious, handwoven textiles, and meeting the skilled makers who bring each piece to life. This carefully curated experience offers not only an unrivalled insight into Scottish textile heritage, but also exclusive access to heirloom-quality treasures unavailable anywhere else in the world. For an even more bespoke experience, the atelier also presents guests with the opportunity to create their own bespoke tartan or tweed with the creative team.
▸ Once a Royal Navy lighthouse tender, Fingal is now an opulent floating hotel moored in Edinburgh’s historic Port of Leith. Here you can find beautiful throws and cushions created exclusively for the hotel by Araminta Campbell. Another option is Cromlix, a stunning Victorian mansion hotel near Dunblane, offering guests an exclusive private shopping experience at Araminta Campbell’s atelier, where you can discover the artistry behind their exquisite textiles. Once you’ve explored the city, why not take a textile-inspired journey into the heart of Royal Deeside with a stay at The Fife Arms, where Araminta has created a new bespoke house tweed and tartan for the luxurious hotel, inspired by the colours and textures of the local landscape around Braemar.
There’s nothing quite like raising a glass of fine wine in the heart of the landscape that produced it. England’s burgeoning wine regions, with their rolling hills and verdant valleys, are now producing worldclass vintages that rival the very best. As the country’s winemaking tradition has been revitalised, English vineyards have become known for their meticulous craftsmanship and innovation, often using the same celebrated grape varieties found in Champagne.
Many of these estates, with their mix of historic charm and quiet English elegance, offer a unique blend of tradition and modern excellence. The opportunity to explore a working vineyard, learn about the winemaking process, and taste exceptional wines right where they’re made is a growing trend. These popular open-day tours often provide rare access to the prestigious
estates, welcoming guests for a peaceful walk through the vines, followed by a guided tasting and the chance to purchase wines at cellar door prices.
▸ Set within a charming Elizabethan manor house in West Sussex, Ockenden Manor seamlessly combines historic character with contemporary comforts. Surrounded by nine acres of bucolic gardens, the hotel has elegant interiors, an award-winning restaurant, and a contemporary spa.
Nearby on the Sussex coast, Bailiffscourt is a romantic retreat styled as a medieval manor, complete with mullioned windows, tapestry-hung walls, and open fireplaces. Surrounded by parkland and just steps from the sea, it features a luxurious spa and award-winning dining, alongside plenty of atmosphere and charm.
Nestled in unspoilt Cornish countryside, Tregothnan Estate is England’s largest private botanical garden and home to the country’s first tea plantation, and the largest in Europe.
Steeped in heritage, the estate has been in the same family since 1334 and has been meticulously nurtured for nearly 700 years. Private tours and exclusive experiences give rare access to this extraordinary living estate, where history and horticulture flourish in peaceful harmony.
Those curious to explore can do so on a River Garden Tea Tour, where an expert host will guide you on a two-mile walk through the plantation, uncovering the rich heritage of the estate and its connection to the river. You’ll explore the historic kea plum orchards and hidden jungle gardens, full of botanical and subtropical wonders, before being introduced to the Camellia sinensis, where you’ll be invited to pick your own tea leaves to process at home. This beautiful and enlightening circular walk ends at the Reading Room, with a captivating tasting of handcrafted, premium teas.
▸ Overlooking the golden sands of Carne Beach on Cornwall’s stunning Roseland Peninsula, The Nare is a country house hotel where tradition and understated luxury meet, presenting a timeless escape and charming English hospitality at its best.
Also nearby on the north coast, The Headland blends Victorian grandeur with contemporary coastal luxury beside Fistral Beach. Its clifftop setting has panoramic Atlantic views, a world-class spa, and laid-back fine dining.
Set amid 220 acres of rewilded Cotswold countryside, Calcot & Spa is a luxurious country retreat rooted in nature. The estate’s ongoing rewilding project has transformed its grounds into wildflower meadows and natural habitats that support local biodiversity, offering an insight into how the countryside once was, while preserving it for generations to come. Guests are invited into the heart of its ecological transformation through a variety of captivating activities, including a fascinating beekeeping experience. One of the oldest agricultural practices in the world, beekeeping has connected humans and nature for millennia. Led by an expert beekeeper, sessions give guests the exciting opportunity to don protective gear, look inside the hives, and learn about pollination cycles, hive health, and habitat restoration. The experience blends educational insight with sensory delight — from the hum of bees to tasting golden jars of Calcot honey, it’s a hands-on experience that perfectly demonstrates the estate’s sustainability ethos.
▸ Calcot & Spa is an elegant yet relaxed hotel that has stylish rooms, an awardwinning spa, and delicious seasonal food. Surrounded by picture-perfect countryside, it’s a peaceful place that blends thoughtful luxury with a deep connection to nature.
Widely regarded as the historic home of British horseracing, Newmarket Racecourse dates back to the early 17th century, when King James I established it as a royal retreat. Steeped in tradition and still with royal connections today, it has hosted centuries of racing excellence. It remains the centre of equestrian heritage, where timeless pageantry meets the thrilling sport. But a day at the races isn’t the only way to enjoy it – Discover Newmarket’s ‘Ultimate Newmarket Experience’ offers a thrilling glimpse into the ‘sport of kings’.
The day begins at Newmarket’s famed training grounds, watching racehorses thunder up Warren Hill. You’ll then explore a working racing yard, meet the teams behind the scenes, and hear stories from the sport’s inner circle. After refreshments, you’ll tour the 500acre National Stud — home to stallions, foals, and racing legends, before heading to the National Horseracing Museum for lunch among equine art, immersive exhibits and royal racing history. The museum also has daily demonstrations from the Retraining of Racehorses charity, where you can meet retired champions and discover how their stories continue way beyond the finish line.
▸ Set in the heart of Newmarket, Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa has both classic Georgian charm and sleek modern luxury. Once a hunting lodge for the Duke of Bedford, it now features elegant rooms, a superb spa, and an award-winning restaurant — all within easy reach of the town’s legendary racecourses and rich equestrian heritage.
Some moments are timeless. Afternoon tea is one of them.
A cultural phenomenon that began with a peculiar peckishness, afternoon tea is a ritual that has since endured for generations, all thanks to one of our very own. We’re incredibly proud to say that the seventh Duke of Bedford’s wife, Anna Maria, is accredited with creating the tradition. When she became a resident of Bedford Lodge, she found the long wait between meals quite simply awfully indulgent. Her afternoon ritual of tea and a light snack soon caught on across British high society, turning a personal pause into a delicately decadent institution.
Today, Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa is one of many of our PoB Hotels that continue to honour that legacy, offering guests a blissfully British afternoon tea experience. Here we share the secrets they’ve prepared as a guide with recommendations from years gone by, ensuring you can enjoy a ravishingly refined experience without a single sconerelated faux pas.
▸ Do you stir clockwise or anticlockwise? Both are an absolute crime. Your tea should be stirred from twelve o’clock to six o’clock. The teaspoon should never touch the sides and is always placed to the right side of the cup.
▸ Drink like a Duchess While an extended pinkie finger is often associated with upperclass tea drinking, it’s actually seen as uncouth
to flash the signet ring. All little fingers should be neatly tucked in.
▸ The tea always goes before the milk! Traditionally, those with only inexpensive porcelain cups would add milk first to prevent cracking from boiling water. With bone china, however, the milk should only ever be added after the tea has been left to brew and been poured.
▸ The pronunciation of ‘scone’... A typical and ongoing debate between all afternoon tea aficionados! According to British etiquette expert Jo Bryant, the correct pronunciation is in fact ‘scon’, to rhyme with ‘con’.
▸ Jam first, cream second or cream first, jam second? This depends on which part of the country you find yourself in. While the Devon tradition is to add the cream first and the jam second, the Cornish tradition is to add the jam first and top it off with clotted cream. We think both methods are perfectly acceptable.
▸ How to break your scone... The perfect scone should break apart with a simple twist! Just make sure you’ve got your saucer at the ready to catch any crumbs.
▸ Keep your eye on the prize... One should always look into one’s cup of tea when drinking, never over it. To drink your tea, lift your cup and saucer together and delicately raise the cup to your mouth.
Shrouded in myth and mystery, Stonehenge rises from Wiltshire’s windswept Salisbury Plain, where it has captivated imaginations for over 4,500 years. Built from massive stones transported across ancient landscapes, its true purpose remains elusive – was it a celestial calendar, sacred burial site, or place of ritual?
Whatever its origin, this prehistoric monument stands as a powerful symbol of Britain’s ancient past and enduring enigma.
While the iconic site is a popular attraction all year round, the Stone Circle Experience offers rare, crowdfree access. Held outside normal visiting hours – either at sunrise or sunset – this unforgettable tour lets
you step inside the tranquil circle, an area usually off-limits. Hosted by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll join a small group to explore the secrets of the stones and feel the atmosphere and mystery of these ancient sarsens up close.
▸ Nestled in the Wylye Valley in Wiltshire, Bishopstrow is a stunning Georgian country house hotel just a short drive from Stonehenge. The hotel is surrounded by 27 acres of beautifully manicured gardens, with the River Wylye running through the grounds. Along with a world-class spa and heated indoor and outdoor swimming pools, the hotel offers a luxurious and peaceful retreat after a day of exploring.
Trot into a living tradition more than 170 years in the making. Windsor Carriages has been part of Royal Windsor’s story since the Victorian era, and it continues to preserve the art of horse-drawn carriage driving today as the last licensed Hackney carriage business in the UK. Under the stewardship of fifth-generation licensee Rebecca Seear, the company remains rooted in warm hospitality, an unrivalled knowledge of Windsor, and a deep respect for its horses.
With a passion for tradition and storytelling Rebecca can design bespoke itineraries for both families and couples. Highlights include a guided tour of Windsor Castle and a private horse-drawn carriage ride through Windsor Great Park — one of Britain’s most historic landscapes, once exclusively reserved for royals.
Glide past ancient oaks, deerdotted meadows, and inspiring castle views, all while hearing fascinating stories steeped in heritage and pageantry. It’s a truly enchanting way to experience the majesty of Windsor, in timeless royal style.
▸ Set within a 16th-century coaching inn on the banks of the Thames, The Relais Henley captures the elegance of Henley’s rowing heritage with nautical touches and vintage prints. The serene bedrooms blend classic details with crisp contemporary finishes — some with views over the Thames, others tucked into centuries-old eaves with beams and characterful quirks.
Stargazing evokes a sense of timeless wonder, connecting us to past generations who looked up to the very same night sky in search of myths, meaning and the possibility of distant worlds. In the Scottish Highlands, the unspoilt wilderness surrounding The Torridon is classified as a Bortle 1 or 2 location, indicating minimal light pollution and some of the darkest, clearest skies on Earth. It’s only fitting, then, that this luxurious Highland retreat presents an incredibly special stargazing experience. The evening begins with a seasonal three-course dinner hosted by astronomer Stephen Mackintosh, followed by a mesmerising presentation exploring the stars, constellations, and what to expect that evening. Afterwards, you’ll head out into the still Highland night to put theory into practice, with expert guidance and all equipment provided. With skies this dark, the Milky Way and thousands of stars are often visible in dazzling clarity — a view few places on Earth can offer.
▸ Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Highlands, The Torridon is a remote and luxurious escape where unspoilt Scottish wilderness meets laidback elegance. Located at the foot of the Torridon peaks, this 58-acre parkland estate brims with character – roaring log fires; a glistening whisky and gin bar; warm, attentive service; and fairytale-like turrets.
Once a Victorian hunting lodge, it now offers both fine dining at the 1887 awardwinning 3 AA Rosette restaurant and more casual dining, cosy bedrooms, and an array of outdoor adventures, all framed by some of the most breathtaking scenery in Scotland.
Join architect George Clarke on a PoB Hotels break as he uncovers underrated architectural gems and natural wonders, from Elizabethan manors to historic abbeys
Words | Jane Knight
You might expect TV presenter and architect George Clarke to rhapsodise about Gravetye Manor, the first of three stops on his PoB Hotels break exploring cinematic locations and the art of heritage restoration. The Elizabethan building has a strikingly different extension in the form of a glass dining room. But when George talks about a “mini architectural wonder,” he’s referring not to the manor but to the oval-shaped walled kitchen garden, which he calls an “amphitheatre for great food”.
The surrounding gardens, transformed by William Robinson, who pioneered the creation of the English natural garden after he bought Gravetye in 1885, are like a “garden architectural experiment”, enthuses George, pointing out that they are Grade II listed, while the manor is Grade I listed. “The mix of architecture and landscape is second to none.”
In the flat-roofed glass extension of a dining room, he feasts his eyes on the gardens while enjoying Martin Carabot’s Michelin-starred menus, using produce grown
just feet away. The nature-inspired decor in the interior complements it all. “When an extension is this simple, the details have to be pin-sharp,” he says appreciatively. “Extensions used to be about blending in. Now, when you talk to Historic England, their philosophy is that they need to be of their time.”
Elsewhere, there is plenty of period grandeur in the manor, with its wood panelling, decorative ceilings and a “chunky staircase that feels quite baronial” leading to the Robinson Suite, where George is staying. He loves flicking through Robinson’s books there while gazing out at the famous gardens.
He also appreciates the history behind the R and K initials carved into Gravetye’s stonework – Richard Infield built the manor for his bride, Katharine Compton. “I am always a fan of people who leave their mark on a building,” says George. “It’s a bit like having a beautiful vintage car with a badge on it.”
Vintage cars are ten a penny in his next destination, a two-hour pootle away in the New Forest – the village of Beaulieu, with its National Motor Museum. The pretty village is frequently used for period film sets and is home to the ruins of an impressive abbey.
It’s just a couple of minutes’ walk from George’s base, The Montagu Arms, which was a typical 16th-century inn before its front was replaced in 1887 by an Arts and Crafts style building.
Beaulieu isn’t new to George, who visited while filming for his Amazing Spaces programme, but he still loves the unique feel of it. “The abbey feels semi-French in style, so you have this mad mix of Cistercian French-style abbey alongside an Arts and Crafts beautiful roadside inn. It’s bonkers, really,” he says.
Arts and Crafts is one of his favourite architectural periods because of its romantic mix of styles. “When you look at the chimneys
outside The Montagu Arms, they are absolutely neogothic chimneys,” he says. “But it feels quite Tudor along the gables.”
Within the Grade II listed building, the oak flooring, panelling and brick fireplaces have the feel of a lovely country inn, muses George. “It feels very rich in detail with good-quality materials, particularly around the windows.”
He is staying in one of the more modern rooms, with a pitched roof, high ceilings and period details such as the quality brickwork and roof tiling, which contrast with a large expanse of glass on one side, creating what he dubs a “hybrid between the old and new”.
In the public rooms, period photographs of vintage cars line the walls to remind you where you are, while outside, it’s common to see old cars putter past. “It’s very quintessentially English,” George sums up.
Yet it couldn’t be more different from his third and final stop, an easy two-hour drive away at Hartwell House in Buckinghamshire.
‘He
is staying in one of the more modern rooms, with pitched roof, high ceilings and period details such as the quality brickwork and roof tiling, which contrast with a large expanse of glass on one side, creating what he dubs a “hybrid between the old and new”.
“It’s off the scale for cinematic locations,” says George of the stately home, one of three Historic House Hotels owned by the National Trust, of which he is an ambassador. “It’s also a great example of a building that has had some amazing extensions over a number of years…You have an ancient Jacobean building that was massively enlarged with a big, grand stunning Georgian extension in the Tuscan style at the back.”
Badly damaged by fire in 1963, the Grade I listed house has been painstakingly restored to its former grandeur, with decorative ceilings and panelling in the elegant rooms. “One of my favourite spaces was the curved hallway that is double or triple height,” says George. “The hand-carved staircase is mind-boggling.”
There’s time to enjoy the spa, a fiveminute walk away from the main house, and to appreciate the neoclassical archways
around the pool, as well as the superb treatments.
Dinner brings a treat, both in the form of the superb food and because it is served in the elegant dining room with an arched, vaulted ceiling, inspired by Sir John Soane, one of George’s architectural heroes. After dinner, he sits in the beautiful gardens, designed by a contemporary of Capability Brown, marvelling at the Georgian extension.
Then it’s back up the staircase to bed, where George is delighted to be staying in the Louis XVIII suite. It’s not a random name; the king and his court spent five years in exile at Hartwell during the Napoleonic Wars.
It’s certainly a room fit for a king – large, grand, and particularly beautiful in the morning light. But then the whole building is magnificent. “The next level from Hartwell would be Downton,” concludes George
Follow George Clarke on his amazing architectural journey, touring these three distinct PoB Hotels, each offering beautiful bedrooms and delicious food
▸ Gravetye Manor: Start your break just 30 miles from London in the Sussex countryside near East Grinstead, where Gravetye Manor couldn’t feel more English, thanks to its pretty gardens set within 1,000 acres of grounds. The forerunner of English, country gardens everywhere, they were a working experiment for William Robinson, who lived at Gravetye from 1885 to 1935 and who wrote The Wild Garden and The English Flower Garden based on his pioneering work there.
The manor is beautiful within, too, with oak-panelled public rooms, spectacular fireplaces and ornate ceilings. Reached via an impressive staircase lined with arresting artwork, some of the 17 traditional bedrooms feature a four-poster bed or dual-aspect windows overlooking the grounds.
The pièce de rèsistance of this Elizabethan manor, though, doesn’t come from the Tudor period at all – it’s the dramatic modern glass extension used for the Michelin-starred restaurant. It’s the perfect place to sit and gaze at Robinson’s masterpiece while enjoying produce from his garden.
▸ The Montagu Arms: Drive from here to Beaulieu, where at first glance you’ll appreciate why this village in the New Forest was given a name meaning ‘beautiful place’ in French. At the head of the tidal Beaulieu River, with a millpond, quaint houses, and New Forest ponies ambling around, it is home to the ruins of a 13th-century abbey as well as the National Motor Museum. There are also some great walks in the national park, while just downriver is the former historic shipbuilding village of Buckler’s Hard.
The perfect base from which to explore it all is The Montagu Arms, with its Arts and Crafts exterior and typical inn interior. Choose between staying in a traditional country-chic room or a more modern courtyard suite in the gardens. The same goes for food – pick a more formal meal in The Terrace restaurant, with its wood-panelled walls and starched white tablecloths, or eat informally with a pint and your dog in Monty’s Inn.
▸ Hartwell House: When you’ve had your fill of food and the fabulous setting, head north to Hartwell House within the Vale of Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire and on the edge of the Chilterns, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The setting here is particularly commanding; the grand country house with both Jacobean and Georgian sides looks over a lake spanned by an arch from the old Kew Bridge, while an Ionic temple and obelisk are also in the grounds.
This National Trust property, which has been beautifully restored by Historic House Hotels, is filled with damask wallpapers, marble fireplaces, fine paintings and ornate stuccoed ceilings, as well as some interesting history. King Louis XVIII and his court lived here for five years when they were exiled from France, farming livestock on the roof. Louis XVIII finally signed his accession to the throne in the library.
You can enjoy food fit for a king in the ornate dining room. And while all of the 48 bedrooms are elegant, if you want a right royal stay, you’ll need to book the four-poster rooms used by Louis and his queen, Marie Joséphine of Savoy
From the starched linens of yesteryear to the relaxed culinary experiences of today, we trace the captivating evolution of hospitality. It’s a story of warm welcomes and knowing smiles, where timeless charm meets a twist on the usual
Words | Natalie Millar-Partridge
Asecret well-shared. That’s what a stay at a truly special hotel feels like, doesn’t it? A key to a world where comfort is an art form and hospitality is an unspoken language. But what happens when that language evolves?
When formality gives way to flair, and stiff-collared tradition makes way for playful indulgence? We’ve delved into the archives to chart the captivating evolution of our most cherished British hotels.
The journey from silver service to sublime spas is a rather delicious one. It’s a story of gentlemen’s retreats
transforming into havens for all, where the echoes of a formal past mingle with the blissful buzz of a more relaxed, experienceled present.
Think of The Headland in Cornwall, perched dramatically on the cliffs, a Victorian grande dame if ever there was one. In a former life, dining here was a serious affair – jacket, tie, and hushed reverence for the procession of meticulously served courses. Today? The Headland still holds its head high, but its soul is wonderfully relaxed. It has traded rigid etiquette for ravishing rituals – think
‘The dining experience is less about stiff formality and more about the celebration of flavour fanfares – with menus that are a divinely choreographed dance of local ingredients.’
barefoot bliss on the beach, inventive cocktails, and the famously fresh, devilishly good seafood at the RenMor restaurant. The core of warm hospitality endures, but with a wonderfully modern, rebellious twist.
Speaking of transformation, Boringdon Hall in Devon is another beautifully preserved, and decidedly different, example. This 16th-century manor once hosted banquets for Sir Francis Drake. Guests would arrive on horseback, ready for a life of croquet and country pursuits. Fast forward a few centuries and the grand, flagstoned Great Hall now serves as a lounge where guests sink into outrageously comfortable seating before retreating to the sublime Gaia spa for some serious self-care. It’s a strikingly curated contrast of old-world charm and blissful indulgence.
And what of the city escape? The Royal Crescent in Bath remains a beacon of perfectly placed Georgian elegance. In its Regency heyday, a stay here was a formal ballet of etiquette: dinner was a de rigueur affair, with set courses and a cigar-smoking denouement for the gentlemen. Today, while the neoclassical facade is unchanged, the experience is wonderfully liberated. The hotel has opened its doors (and its menus) to a more relaxed vibe, where
a touch of theatre returns with decadent dessert trolleys and Montagu’s Mews restaurant and terrace serving small plates. The city’s charm is no longer just admired from a window; it’s explored with foodie tours, paddleboarding on the Avon, and curated workshops.
This delightful blend of heritage and hedonism is a recurring theme across PoB Hotels’ collection.
At Hambleton Hall, the grandeur of a Victorian hunting lodge has evolved into a haven for those who worship at the altar of good food. While it once drew in those on horseback, it now attracts foodies
from far and wide, featuring the UK’s longestretained Michelin star. The dining experience is less about stiff formality and more about the celebration of flavour fanfares – with menus that are a divinely choreographed dance of local ingredients.
In Scotland, Glenapp Castle has moved beyond its traditional dinner, bed and breakfast origins. Once a fairy-tale escape for those seeking quiet luxury, it now offers a wilder, more wonderfully whimsical side. While the castle remains as ravishingly refined as ever, guests can now set off on a Highland cow safari or a multiday Hebridean Sea Safari, blending five-star comfort with glorious, untamed adventure.
‘The gentleman’s retreat to the drawing room for a post-dinner cigar has been replaced with something far more enriching... The only smoke you’ll find now is the steam rising from the outdoor vitality pool.’
And finally, on the shores of Jersey, The Atlantic has traded in a formal dress code for an immersive, authentic island escape. The classic, high-quality cuisine of the past has given way to devilishly good dining that champions the island’s incredible natural larder. Guests don’t just admire the view; they live it, with curated experiences from e-bike hire to private yacht charters.
The core of hospitality remains unchanged: to create a space for genuine connection and wonderful memories. But now, it’s all done with a wink and a smile, a dash of the deliciously decadent, and a whole lot of curated luxury. The past was elegant, but the future? The future is eccentrically playful and imaginative.
Hospitality once revolved around the quiet pleasures of the manor. Now, the PoB experience is all about seeking out adventure, curating memories, and getting gloriously hands-on.
▸ Sea Safaris & Stalking: In a past life, a guest at a Scottish hunting lodge might have spent their day deerstalking, a formal pursuit steeped in tradition. Today, at Glenapp Castle, the adventure is wilder and wetter. Their Sea Safari swaps a stag for a seal, taking you on a multiday voyage through Scotland’s remote isles. It’s a modern, immersive journey that forges a deeper connection with the untamed landscape.
▸ Wellness & Wining: The gentleman’s retreat to the drawing room for a post-dinner cigar has been replaced with something far more enriching. Now, PoB Hotels’ guests are seeking wellness and a more wholesome kind of self-care. Sopwell House, Grantley Hall, Boringdon Hall, Seaham Hall, and more offer serene spaces for rejuvenation – a world away from the old boys’ club. The only smoke you’ll find now is the steam rising from the outdoor vitality pool.
▸ Coastal Foraging & Classic Cuisine: Where dining was once a choreographed event, dictated by a menu, it has now become a flavour-led adventure. From Grove of Narberth in Wales to Cromlix in Scotland, the culinary experience isn’t confined to the plate. It starts with the very coast and countryside around the hotels, with chefs working with local producers and even foraging for ingredients. It’s an immersive, authentic experience that trades the formality of bygone days for a true taste of the local larder.
▸ Quintessentially British indulgence: While the tradition of afternoon tea remains, it has evolved into something far more inventive. At Ellenborough Park, The Montagu Arms and Bodysgallen Hall, you can indulge in a lavish alfresco experience. Other delightfully different options include a Jane Austen–themed tea at The Royal Crescent and a whimsical Teddy Bears’ Picnic at Boringdon Hall, proving that this delicious ritual is anything but stuffy.
We’ve come a long way from hushed hallways and strict formality. Today, the finest hospitality is all about embracing individuality with a playful twist
▸ Then: Gents dressed for dinner in a stiff, starched collar.
▸ Now: Leave the cravat at home! A jacket is always a fine touch at some of our more classic establishments, but today’s PoB experience is about relaxed elegance. Dress for delight, not for duty.
▸ Then: Silver service meant a serious, silent affair.
▸ Now: Engage with your waiter. They are masters of their craft, and are often the best source for discovering local ingredients and perfectly paired wines. A moment shared can make the meal even more deliciously distinctive.
▸ Then: A guest’s stay revolved solely around their room and the dining hall.
▸ Now: Explore beyond the front door! PoB Hotels are perfectly placed for discovering local delights, from foraging excursions to e-bike adventures. Be curious, not confined.
▸ Then: It was uncivilised to show any outward emotion.
▸ Now: Feel free to be yourself. This is a place where you can be perfectly pampered, blissfully British, or even a little bit silly. The grand old houses have seen it all, and a little laughter only adds to their charming comfort.
▸ Then: Silence was golden, particularly in the library.
▸ Now: While we still love a good book, our spaces are designed for conversation. Strike up a chat with a fellow guest, share a story, or simply soak up the atmosphere. It’s all part of the curiously curated experience.
▸ Then: Gentlemen retreated to their own rooms for port and cigars.
▸ Now: The fun is for everyone! Join in with the rest of the guests for a tasting, a wellness ritual, or a garden tour. A secret wellshared is always more fun than a secret kept.
A quiet food revolution is occurring in the UK’s kitchens, mirroring a sustainable trend worldwide, where once forgotten, underused ingredients are sneaking back onto menus with very satisfying results. Of course, the chefs at PoB Hotels are ahead of the curve
Words | Karyn Noble
While terms like ‘paddock to plate’ and ‘field to fork’ have become the latest buzzwords, our chefs have been on a quiet mission for decades: to bring the kitchen garden back to the heart of the dining experience. It’s about a commitment that’s much deeper than a passing trend.
So, when you find yourself savouring a multi-course meal in our sublime surroundings and are delighted by an ingredient you’ve never encountered before, it’s more than just delicious. It’s a tiny taste of history, a flavour revived from the brink of extinction, and a testament to our passion for nourishing both you and the planet.
The very nature of a kitchen garden beside your hotel’s restaurant means that you not only get the satisfaction of watching a chef in whites and wellies stomping out to snip your superfresh garnishes, but that continuous culinary discoveries are informing the seasonal menus, with an ever-widening diversity and a sense of creativity.
At Gravetye Manor, a luxurious countryside manor in Sussex, amid its 1000 acres, one of the highlights is its walled vegetable garden, created by William Robinson at the turn of the last century. “Before the end of WWII, walled gardens were one of the most important suppliers of fresh produce, says Gravetye’s
Head Gardener Tom Coward. “But after the 1950s, with developments in food production, preserving and processing, many became redundant. When we started in 2010, the walled garden had become quite derelict, and we set about the task of renovation.”
Many guests visit Gravetye Manor’s restaurant to experience the beauty of its kitchen garden, seen from the floorto-ceiling glass walls, and then enjoy the magic on the plate. “We are also able to grow varieties of fruit and vegetables which are not commercially available, giving us endless opportunities to play with our ingredients,” says Tom. “Over the years, it has developed into a magical partnership of garden and kitchen.”
Tucked into Wales’ Pembrokeshire, Grove of Narberth is a charming country house with 26 acres of woodlands, meadows and gardens; 80% of its produce
is sourced from the two acres of kitchen gardens.
“The kitchen garden itself has expanded from the original walled garden,” says Executive Chef Douglas Balish. “It’s been a gradual process where we have reduced the number of different types of produce we grow to create a sustainable quantity for the hotel and restaurants.”
Over at Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa, an indulgent Cotswolds escape, the 12 acres of gardens embrace organic principles (eliminating pesticides in 2021), with the kitchen garden adopting a ‘no-dig’ philosophy relatively recently.
“It creates a healthier soil – better yields, which is great, as we don’t have the largest garden, so this allows us to utilise the space to grow other vegetables,” says Executive Chef Ricki Weston. “Essentially, what I have noticed is that the produce has got better year on year.”
If you’re fortunate enough to have access to a prolific fig tree, your focus may be (understandably) all about the sweet, jammy fruit. But with the rise of fig leaves on fine-dining menus in the past year or so, there’s an entire culinary aspect waiting to be embraced.
“I
absolutely love fig leaves. I prefer the flavour of the leaf compared to the fruit. It has a wonderful perfumy flavour and really lends itself to most things. We turn the fig leaves in the garden into fig leaf oil, sugar, salt and boshi. For our fish dish, the oil is used to make a fig leaf blanquette sauce that is seasoned with salt and boshi for acidity.”
Ricki Weston, Whatley Manor
“Over the last decade or so, it’s become a normal thing to be able to look at all aspects of food: where it comes from, where it grows, and with foraging so common now. Our favourite things around us in Wiltshire to forage include sweet woodruff, different varieties of mushrooms, and sweet cicely. For me, it’s important to utilise what we have around us.”
Ricki Weston, Whatley Manor
Yesterday’s Bread
Yesterday’s Bread is one of Ricki Weston’s secret concoctions at Whatley Manor that sustainably transforms leftovers into tasty crackers. Demonstrating his ongoing commitment to zerowaste, resourcefulness and consideration for the land.
Cicely, or sweet cicely, was popular in British herb gardens in the Victorian era. It’s also one of the main ingredients in Chartreuse, a liqueur first made by Carthusian monks in the 18th century. It was used very frequently around 100 years ago, but is now rarely used.
“Sweet Cicely is a somewhat
forgotten plant that we use a lot here. It has a sweet, anise, liquorice flavour that is brilliant in cocktails, desserts and savoury dishes. We use it on our grove garden vegetables dish. It has been used previously to balance sour fruits like gooseberries without the need for sugar.”
Douglas Balish, Grove of Narberth
“Black Mitcham Mint is one of the ingredients grown here that makes Gravetye Manor so special, giving us access to these very special ingredients, otherwise lost and unique to us. This in turn makes the experience of visiting and dining here difficult to replicate”.
Martin Carabot, Gravetye Manor
Black Mitcham Mint
Black Mitcham Mint had vanished from the UK, despite being first cultivated around 1750 near Mitcham in Surrey. It was tracked down in Oregon, USA and reintroduced to the UK by Sir Michael Colman (of Colman’s Mustard fame) in 1995, who gave Jim Gardiner (retired RHS Executive Vice President), a piece who in turn passed it on to Gravetye. “It has a very distinct flavour and aroma (close to that of a Bendicks Bittermint), which was nearly lost, and we are incredibly happy to bring it back into cultivation and share with our guests,” says Tom. “It is also a small piece of our rich plant and culinary heritage in South East England, and we see it as a responsibility to preserve and share this.”
And, were it not for Jim, diners at Gravetye Manor’s Michelin-starred restaurant would not have the pleasure of trying vibrant Black Mitcham Mint fresh from our kitchen garden.
Discover the rich heritage and magnificent architecture of Britain’s stately homes and castles when staying at a nearby PoB Hotel. In some cases, you get a unique insight into centuries of history without even stepping out of the hotel door
Words | Jane Knight
From the top of the medieval tower at Bodysgallen Hall, the view is pure storybook. Conwy Castle looms over the river with its robust round towers and battlements backed by the drama of the Snowdonia range. At the right angle, it appears to hover above the Conwy Bridge, adding a surreal element to the scene.
The reality is no less compelling. Built by Edward I as part of his iron ring of fortresses designed to subdue the Welsh, it’s now a World Heritage Site and is one of the finest surviving medieval castles in Europe. Bodysgallen, just a 10-minute drive away, started life as one of the castle’s watchtowers. Today, it’s a charming, architectural composite, with gabled wings grafted on through the ages, where the only
intruders are guests arriving to check into its country-chic bedrooms for a night.
Ask nicely, and a member of staff will take you on a private journey up the five-storey watchtower – a stairway through time. You start on Victorian steps, rise through the 18th-century and Jacobean floors and end up spiralling your way onto the 13th-century originals.
Back on ground level, there’s another piece of history not to miss: Bodysgallen’s 17th-century Dutch-style garden, its box hedges radiating from a central feature.
Anyone can book one of the regular tours with the head gardener, but staying here means you can also wander out whenever the mood strikes before retreating inside to log fires, stained-glass windows, and smart wood panelling.
History seeps into every corner of Bodysgallen, a National Trust property managed by Historic House Hotels. The same goes for its sister hotel, Hartwell House in Buckinghamshire, with a past as grand as its Jacobean and Georgian facades – and another historic heavyweight on its doorstep.
Its most famous resident was Louis XVIII, the exiled King of France, who held court here from 1809 to 1814. But he’s just one of a long line of distinguished former residents, from King John to a member of Queen Elizabeth I’s household, a Lord Chief Justice, and an eccentric astronomer who turned the building into a museum and an observatory. It was in the library, in fact, that the Royal Meteorological Society was founded in 1850. With a past that includes a royal court, an army billet during WWII, and a prestigious finishing school, Hartwell House is steeped in stories that bring its stately rooms and elegant grounds to life.
A stay at this National Trust property also unlocks free entry to other Trust members, including Waddesdon Manor, just 25 minutes away. In the style of a French Renaissance castle, it looks like it’s been lifted straight from the Loire, complete with a formal parterre garden and carpet bedding. Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild built it to display his
formidable art collection, and there are plenty of Gainsboroughs to wonder at.
But the most interesting art lies in the round tower, where panels in the Bakst Room tell the tale of Sleeping Beauty, with characters from the Rothschild family as its protagonists. Even their dog, Muffin, gets a painted part. There’s more Rothschild memorabilia in the cellar, this time in the form of 15,000 bottles, with the largest collection of Château Lafite Rothschild outside Bordeaux.
Should you like your hotel cellars as well stocked as your stately homes, the place to stay is The Vineyard at Stockcross in Berkshire. There may be no vines outside, but inside, wine takes centre stage.
The lobby’s glass-topped cellar glows with
‘There’s more Rothschild memorabilia in the cellar, this time in the form of 15,000 bottles, with the largest collection of Château Lafite Rothschild outside Bordeaux.’
‘The lobby’s glasstopped cellar glows with rows of bottles, lit by neon and promising good things to come.’
rows of bottles, lit by neon and promising good things to come.
At dinner in the Tasting Room, each dish can be paired with a distinctive wine, introduced with flair by the sommelier, who’ll happily regale you with the backstory of every vintage. There’s even a spa on hand to ease the effects the next morning. You’ll want a clear head, though, to take in the vast proportions of Highclere Castle, just a 10-minute drive away.
Reimagined in 1842 by Sir Charles Barry,
the man behind the Houses of Parliament, this grand Victorian pile owned by the Earl and Duchess of Carnarvon houses an Egyptian exhibition in its former staff quarters, honouring the 5th earl, who discovered Tutankhamun’s tomb. These days, it’s better
known for its role in Downton Abbey, which returned to the big screen in September 2025. Fans should recognise Lady Cora’s drawing room, the Crawley’s library and the state dining room, where Dame Maggie Smith’s acerbic lines often accompanied exquisite dishes.
If you’re after a hotel that’s rich in food history itself, the place to go is Hambleton Hall.
Its restaurant has held a Michelin star since 1982, longer than any other in Britain. And even before you sit down in the hotel’s elegant dining room, you know why; the canapés, served in the drawing room of this former 19th-century hunting box as you gaze out over Rutland Water, are out of this world.
To dig deeper into the past, make the 15-minute hop to Burghley House, one of the largest and most splendid Elizabethan houses in the country. Built by Sir William Cecil, Lord High Treasurer and chief spymaster to Elizabeth I, it hides secrets behind its splendour – literally. In some rooms, doors are cleverly disguised within panelling or painted walls, a subtle reminder that in Tudor times, power and paranoia often went hand in hand.
For something on a more intimate scale
– and where Hambleton Hall can arrange a private tour – make time for Grimsthorpe Castle, a favourite of Hambleton owners Tim and Stefa Hart. It has both Tudor and
baroque facades, the latter the work of Sir John Vanbrugh, architect of Blenheim Palace and Castle Howard. Henry VIII is said to have held council here, and Queen Anne of Denmark stayed in 1611.
But if it’s Royal residences you’re after, head north to Scotland and to Fingal, a floating hotel in Leith with a regal backstory all of its own. Originally a working vessel that delivered supplies to lighthouse keepers along Scotland’s coast, it’s now a sleek 22-cabin retreat. It hosted Princess Anne in her role as patron of the Northern Lighthouse Board; her former quarters are now the Skerryvore Suite, with their own private deck.
Fingal is owned by The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust, and guests enjoy free entrance to Britannia itself, moored a 10-minute walk away, and with a shipshape new visitor centre. Onboard, you can explore the Royal apartments, Engine room, Bridge and Crew Quarters and get a glimpse of life on the vessel Queen Elizabeth II called “the one place where I can truly relax”. Then return to Fingal to really appreciate
Fingal and The Royal Yacht Britannia
‘There’s no better place to raise a glass of Royal Yacht Britannia gin – or perhaps a well-shaken nautical cocktail...’
the glamour and style of a yacht. There’s no better place to raise a glass of Royal Yacht Britannia gin – or perhaps a well-shaken nautical cocktail – to a stay steeped in history, royal connection and a good measure of style.
From courtside chic to country-house elegance, we journey through the evolution of fashionable days out at some of Britain’s most iconic events
Words | Natalie Millar-Partridge
Motoring magnificence at Goodwood Goodwood is a thrilling spectacle that takes you on a journey through motorsport history.
From the moment Goodwood Motor Circuit opened in 1948, it set the tone for unforgettable motor racing. The early years of the event were defined by the pared-down suits of the ‘40s to the influential Parisian designs of the ‘50s and the playful colours and prints of the ‘60s, all reflecting seismic cultural changes. Fast-forward to today, and the threeday motorsport event, the Goodwood Revival, is a nostalgic celebration of a bygone era. The Celebration of Speed is a dramatic showcase of incredible machines, allowing for imaginative style statements. For a modern take, a nod to motorsport heroes can be seen in team colourways and caps inspired by some of the greatest cars to grace the Goodwood hill.
▸ Where to stay: Park House Hotel & Spa is located just 15 minutes from Goodwood House. Take the opportunity to link your visit to Goodwood with a Drive & Stay experience, where you can take the wheel of a beautifully restored classic car to match your style during your stay.
From the electrifying excitement of Wimbledon to the vibrant spectacle of the Chelsea Flower Show and the regal pageantry of Ascot, the British summer calendar is a showcase of worldclass events.
Arguably one of the most highly anticipated events of the British summertime calendar, the Wimbledon Championships brings the world’s focus to London’s SW19 for two weeks of every summer. Beyond the tennis itself, the event has long been associated with glamour. In the tournament’s early years, spectators would lean towards florals and polka dots, and suits and ties for men. For 2026, the on-court action demands attention. But spectators in the stands provide their own spectacle, with a playful nod to the
stereotype of Wimbledon whites with floppy hats making a high-fashion renaissance. For men, the look is all about a good blazer and a tie that subtly connects to the action.
If you’re visiting the Chelsea Flower Show, you’ll be immersed in an explosion of colour. The annual show has always been an occasion for impeccable, formal dress, more recently evolving into a more playful style, illustrated by King’s Trust Ambassador and TV star Tasha Ghouri, who wore a striking floral headpiece at the 2025 show to symbolise how both seeds and young people can overcome adversity and thrive.
While Royal Ascot has maintained a strict dress code since the initial event over a century ago, it remains a showcase of British heritage and spectacle. Back then, attendees paired elaborate hats with everything from corsets and flapper-girl dresses, slinky silks and pearls to
shoulder pads, pencil skirts, 1960s florals and bright prints of the 1970s. Over recent years, the ensembles have been increasingly bold, with a rise in tailored suits, sustainable fabrics, and an emphasis on pre-loved and vintage.
▸ Where to stay: The Athenaeum Hotel and Residences is a relaxed home-from-home with an ideal central location in Mayfair – perfect for attending Wimbledon, Chelsea Flower Show and Ascot. If you’re planning to skip the tournament, but have a penchant for tennis, head to Cromlix, Andy Murray’s flourishing estate in Stirlingshire.
Henley Regatta is a celebration of waterfaring tradition, where you can watch world-class rowing while enjoying a festival atmosphere. One of the best-dressed events in the British
sporting calendar, Henley Regatta has set the standard for elevated summer spectating since its inaugural event in 1839. In its early days, it was all about fascinators and flapper dresses. These days, spectators prefer to don linen suits and wicker hats, bold stripes, elegant lace and everpopular broderie anglaise. The event is steeped in tradition, so you can expect a few mainstays— dresses below the knee and classic rowing blazers, inspired by local clubs and the boating heritage.
▸ Where to stay: Unwind in an individually designed bedroom inspired by Henley’s rowing tradition, at The Relais Henley. The hotel has welcomed guests to Henley for centuries, including royalty and nobility. Don’t forget to stop by the Quarterdeck Bar, situated in the oldest part of the hotel, to view vintage photographs of the Henley Royal Regatta.
Traditional British country life with a hint of nostalgia sets the tone at Cheltenham Races, embodying the glitz and glamour of a bygone era. Racing has always been a prestigious event, with
spectators embracing luxurious textures. Rewind to the early 1900s, and they wore velvet, cord, suede shearling and silks, layering statement patterns— for example: florals, paisley and baroque. Elegant tailoring was key, alongside a nod to countrysidechic, with a classic riding boot and a wool millinery fedora. Modern-day racing leans into vintage;
tweed blazers are ubiquitous, alongside earthy tones, herringbone and plaid. Accessories also play a key role: luxury leather handbags, hats and boots, showcasing exquisite artisanship.
▸ Where to stay: Ellenborough Park is between the Cotswolds’ highest point and the gallops of Cheltenham Racecourse. It’s a quintessentially British base to indulge in summer-themed afternoon teas and relax in the Spa Garden Retreat with a private track leading from the hotel to the racecourse.
Glyndebourne is a world-class opera experience, a true jewel in the British cultural crown. Since the first festival in 1934, Glyndebourne
has been famed for an extensive repertoire of operatic works, including Mozart and Benjamin Britten. Today, over 150,00 spectators a year flock to its stunning grounds in the midst of the Sussex countryside to watch inspirational directors and world-class orchestras and performers. It’s a beautiful and quintessentially British spot to enjoy opera, and an exciting opportunity to dress up for the occasion.
Glyndebourne is synonymous with black tie and an emphasis on evening-wear elegance over the decades. Present-day attendees follow a similar tradition, with the opportunity to put your best foot forward—choosing formal attire, from floor-length evening gowns and cocktail dresses to sharp tailored trouser suits, statement jewellery, clutches and shawls.
▸ Where to stay: Ockenden Manor offers a chic spot for your trip to Glyndebourne, just over a 30-minute drive away. Marry world-class opera with timeless elegance and award-winning dining at an English country house where manicured gardens take centre stage.
Embrace Scottish Style at The Royal Highland Braemar Gathering
The Braemar Gathering is a celebration of Scottish heritage, steeped in rich tradition. The Braemar Royal Highland Gathering is a famous Scottish tradition, held for almost 200 years. It is an ancient tradition, with athletic games, including tossing the caber and tug-of-war to the Massed Band parade that can be traced back to the time of King Malcolm Canmore, over 900 years ago. Historically, kilts and tartan would be worn, alongside sporrans, kilt hose (socks) and either a Balmoral or Glengarry hat. If kilts aren’t your vibe, nowadays it’s acceptable to embrace a more contemporary look. But there’s still an unspoken tradition to lean into Scottish heritage, with a nod to donning a tartan scarf or
shawl. For a more relaxed look, wear a Scottishthemed T-shirt featuring a clan crest or Braemar Gathering logo. A tweed jacket is always a great choice, providing warmth without compromising style. And if you’d like to embrace authenticity, without specific clan ties, opt for a universal tartan like Black Watch or Hunting Stewart.
▸ Where to stay: The Fife Arms is just a five-minute walk from the games. Enjoy the echo of bagpipes across the hills – and a delicious, authentic Scottish Highland supper in The Clunie Dining Room.
Cowes Week is a celebration of the sea, where you can watch world-class sailing in a relaxed and stylish atmosphere.
The biggest sailing regatta in the world, Cowes Week, dates back to 1826. A more casual affair
than Henley, the event has long sported an effortless look – for example, boating shoes, linens, light blues and a classic double-breasted blazer. It may be 2026, but the same simple style continues, though there’s more emphasis on brands and accessories – a logoed polo shirt, classic Raybans and a Turnbull & Asser pocketsquare hit the mark. For ladies, it’s all about the Breton stripe, a deck shoe and for ‘Ladies’ Day’–in honour of female sailors – nautical-inspired, navy and white striped dresses are a must.
▸ Where to stay: For a quintessential escape during Cowes Week, stay at the Montagu Arms, set at the hub of the pretty Hampshire village of Beaulieu – a peaceful base just a short drive away from Calshot Beach and Castle. Alongside spectating, guests can book paddleboarding, kayaking and cycling packages, along the postcardworthy River Beaulieu.
The British Grand Prix at Silverstone is a highoctane spectacle of speed, glamour, and racing history.
Formula One has inspired fashion through the decades, with the sartorial influence of the prestigious motorsport shifting gears over time. The first ever race took place at Silverstone in 1950, and just a decade later, the competition was an international sensation, with brands sponsoring the cars and drivers.
Spectator style is influenced heavily by the sport itself — during the early years, there would be nods to racing-team colours, caps, bomber jackets and boiler suits.
While today’s Formula One tribe still love to don a cap, there’s a lean towards statement pieces, striking motif T-shirts, monogrammed branding, printed neckerchiefs and chic Chanel jumpsuits and jackets, inspired by the glamour of the Monaco Grand Prix.
▸ Where to stay: Mallory Court, set within 10 acres of lush grounds, surrounded by stunning Warwickshire countryside, is just a 45-minute drive from the racing tracks. It’s a spot to slow down and unwind, in contrast to Silverstone’s high-speed circuits.
A vibrant celebration of the performing arts, and a cultural phenomenon unlike any other.
Spanning 25 days in August, the Edinburgh Fringe is something of a cultural phenomenon, with the first event taking place in 1947. The Fringe has grown significantly over the years, with the style evolving over the past century, too. During the festival’s early years, there was a strong link to Scottish heritage: lots of tartan, kilts and sporrans, pins, hose and socks with theatrical accessories adding to the look—such as bagpipes, tankards and drinking horns. These days, it’s a much more relaxed affair, where attendees can let loose and embrace alternative styles. Much like Glastonbury,
it’s a chance to embrace flamboyance, with a nod to tradition in the guise of a tartan scarf or the colours of Scotland’s flag.
▸ Where to stay: For a unique experience, lean into nautical interiors with beautifully styled cabins and decks at Fingal, moored in Edinburgh’s historic Port of Leith. Alternatively, stay at Prestonfield House, a sumptuous 17th-century mansion nestled in the shadow of Arthur’s Seat, just minutes from the city’s historic Old Town. This boutique hotel is lavishly adorned with antiques and rich velvets, capturing the heritage charm and opulence of Scotland for a truly grand and decadent retreat.
The golden age of glamorous travel may be behind us, but that doesn’t mean we can’t replicate it now. Our modern approach to travel hasn’t diminished the excitement; it has merely reshaped it. We explore how packing has transformed travel, but still retains anticipatory pleasure when embarking on a British adventure
Words | Amy Bonifas
There’s always been something deeply romantic about packing up your luggage and hitting the open road, or settling into a long train journey toward a new destination. While we may feel nostalgic for a bygone era, the thrill of adventure remains. From exploring ancient castles to wandering coastal footpaths, to indulging in foodie weekend breaks or relaxing wellness retreats, the anticipation is a constant. There will always be that first, thrilling glimpse of the wide-open blue sea and the promise of a proper fish and chips on the harbour wall. Or the feeling of waking up on a misty morning in the Highlands, ready to hike through woodlands and alongside lochs.
Whether it’s a boutique stay or a wild retreat, a successful trip still heavily relies on the art of packing, and getting it right. Your vessel of choice might be a small wheeled suitcase or a vintage rucksack, but whatever it is, we’re all still chasing the magic that has defined British adventures for generations. Packing might be smarter and lighter now, and travel logistics smoother, but travel is still about discovery and the memories captured along the way.
To celebrate the beauty of travel through the lens of packing, we’ve focused on the
evolution of luggage. We’re comparing much-loved travel essentials and items that would have been neatly packed away inside cases from heritage British brands, and contrasting them with their modernday equivalents. We’ll consider everything from old-fashioned trunks with their handwritten paper luggage tags to streamlined ergonomic cases to luxurious keepsake board games and sleek e-readers packed with all your favourite novels, plus everything in between, to embark on a good ‘ol British adventure.
Sometimes you just need that little bit more from your drinks. Something new, something fresh, something exciting.
Mediocre mixers? Not on our watch. Your drinks demand something more. That’s why we created Double Dutch: bold, vibrant, and fun soft drinks & mixers bursting with unexpected flavours inspired by molecular gastronomy and made with high-quality, natural ingredients that never compromise on taste. Proudly B Corp certified, we bring the party with every flavourful pour.
To celebrate a decade of deliciousness, we’ve unveiled our boldest look yet: our brand-new dress code. A chic new bottle with vibrant swirls and a bold new label. It’s still the lightest mixer bottle on the market - because looking good and doing good go hand in hand - and now it’s packed with 15% more sparkle to dial up the fizz.
Born to mix and raised to party, we’ve spent ten years pushing flavour boundaries and serving up surprises with every sip. Pass the Double Dutch — it’s party time!
Double Dutch Co-founders
▸ Globetrotter trunk: £1,995, globe-trotter.com
▸ Mackintosh Heriot Whangee Handle Stick Umbrella: £145, mackintosh.com
Swaine Panama Torquilla Straw
Hat: £330, swaine.london
Barbour Bedale Waxed Jacket: £279, barbour.com
▸ Smythson Panama Leather Cufflink Box: £165, harrods.com
▸ Handmade leather Stirrup
Keyring, Green: £95, ettinger.co.uk
▸ Bennett Winch Triple Watch Roll, Brown: £685, bennettwinch.com
▸ Joseph Cheaney & Sons Tudor Double Buckle Monk Shoe in Black Calf Leather: £650, cheaney.co.uk
Is there anything more wonderfully old-fashioned than a spirited game of rummy or dominoes with a loved one?
Holidays are for turning off, unwinding, and reconnecting. So, before you seal that suitcase, remember the most important item of all: fun. We’re talking about those essential classics – they’re compact, travel beautifully, and offer a delightful way to while away a rainy afternoon or a lazy evening.
▸ Set your phone to ‘Do Not Disturb’ – or, for the truly brave, put it on aeroplane mode for a full day. The world can wait.
▸ Take a ‘mental’ photograph –instead of snapping a shot, close your eyes for a moment. Take in the sounds, the smells, and the feeling of the place, committing it to memory. You’ll find it far more vivid than any camera roll.
▸ Wander with purpose – or rather, without one. Leave the map in your pocket and allow yourself to get wonderfully, blissfully lost. The best discoveries are rarely on the itinerary.
▸ With a little forethought, you can leave the digital world behind and truly immerse yourself in the moment. After all, the best stories are lived, not simply scrolled.
games for on the go
Alexandra Llewellyn On Safari Monkey Travel Backgammon Set: £1,800, alexandrallewellyn.com
▸ Hermés Set of 2 Habits de Cour bridge playing cards: £165. Never miss a trick with this set of two cards: hermes.com
▸ Ralph Lauren Home Ferren Dominoe Set: £539. Get on a roll with this luxury domino set: flannels.com
Viceroy Grand Victorian Fountain Pen with Gold Nib: £1,495, yard-o-led.com
Smythson Bon Voyage Panama Notebook: £65, smythson.com
Leica M11-P Digital Camera Body: £8,000, leica-camera.com
▸ Ladies Single Breasted Full Length Tartan Coat: £345, houseofbruar.com
▸ Garrard 1735 Round Sapphire Pendant: £7,200, garrard.com
▸ Smythson Jewellery Case in Mara: £270, smythson.com
▸ Buckingham Burgundy leather Crossbody Bag: £265, fairfaxandfavor.com
▸ Lock & Co.Hatters Lewes Panama Hat: £345, lockhatters.com
▸ Empressa Eau de Parfum 100ml: £310, penhaligons.com
▸ Men’s Shaving Brush with Travel Case: £54, trumpers.com
▸ Dior Rouge Pocket Mirror: £280. A compact mirror is always a must to have while travelling: dior.com
A truly wonderful holiday is one where you feel perfectly at ease, both inside and out. The secret, of course, lies not in bringing your entire bathroom cabinet, but in a carefully curated collection of indulgences. Because true luxury is about packing less, but better.
▸ Decant your favourite potions into miniature bottles. There is something undeniably chic about a perfectly proportioned collection of your go-to products.
▸ Think of your skincare as an extension of your wardrobe. A high-factor SPF is a non-negotiable accessory, a final touch of polish before stepping out the door.
▸ A small pouch of essentials, from a painkiller to a plaster, can be a travel saviour. Consider it your wellbeing safety net, packed with an elegant nod to prudence.
▸ Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. A good, reusable water bottle is the most underrated travel companion of them all, keeping you glowing from the inside out.
▸ Leave those bulky towels and lavish toiletries at home. Our hotels are wonderfully well-appointed, with impossibly fluffy flannels, soft robes, and a selection of gloriously scented bath and shower products.
▸ Byredo Bal d’Afrique Eau de Parfum: £150, libertylondon.com
▸ Vieve Essentials Makeup Bag: £25, vievebeauty.com
▸ Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lipstick: £26, charlottetilbury.com
▸ With Nothing Underneath The Boyfriend Shirt: £110, withnothingunderneath.com
▸ Veja Panenka Suede Taupe: £125, veja-store.com
▸ Private White VC Fleece Vest: £395, privatewhitevc.com
▸ Kestin Tain Shirt: £99, kestin.co
▸ Grenson Men’s Sneaker: £195, grenson.com
▸ Carl Friedrik the Check-in: £465, carlfriedrik.com
▸ Longcham Le Pliage Energy L Tote Bag: £220, longchamp.com
▸ Georg Jensen Sky Stainless-Steel Drinking Bottle: £60, selfridges.com
▸ Bear Brooksbank The Bamboo Ring: £1,385, bearbrooksbank.com
▸ Never mislay your pen again with this brightly coloured Paul Smith collaboration: £55, carandache.com
▸ Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones: £445.95, bose.co.uk
▸ Apple iPad Air: £599, apple.com
▸ Anker Power Bank: £89.99, anker.com
▸ Apple AirTag: £35, apple.com
There is an art to packing. It requires a certain flair, a clever trick of the wrist, and a very good suitcase. And while we like to think we’re seasoned pros, it never hurts to have a few extra secrets up your sleeve.
▸ Roll, don’t fold your clothes – it saves space and helps reduce creases.
▸ Use packing cubes for clothes – they take up less space and are helpful for different types of clothes, or for different places.
▸ Always pack a light raincoat –even in summer, as British weather can’t always be relied upon; or at least a compact umbrella.
▸ Always pack fewer clothes than you think – but always include the right footwear for your type of trip.
▸ Pack layers, instead of lots of bulky items.
▸ Think about packing full outfits with interchangeable items, not just single items of clothes.
▸ Travel with a large but thin scarf, such as a wide cashmere scarf, as it has multiple uses.
are you?
the curiously connected
You don’t need a rule book to feel an effortless allegiance
Our kindred spirits and unofficial insiders are those who don’t just stay with us, but find their sense of belonging.
open the door to inspiration
Matt Tebbutt finds his inspiration in...
“I love being outside, being in nature every single day takes you away from your busy life.”
“Great food is a joy, especially when it reflects where you are in the country.”
Matt Tebbutt
&
po B hotels.com
George Clarke takes inspiration from...
open the door to inspiration
Victoria Pendleton is inspired by...
“I‘m always a fan of people who leave their mark on a building.”
George Clarke
“It’s a wonderful experience to do something different somewhere new and to be outside and enjoy the environment.”
Victoria Pendleton
Welcome to Now & Then, a ‘history with a twist’ theme for our 2026 edition, and the part of The Handle where we throw open the doors to the extraordinary pasts of PoB Hotels - because history isn’t found in a textbook; it’s waiting for you to check in!
Every one of our hotels is so much more than a place to lay your head. They are living, breathing repositories of stories, secrets, and timeless treasures, each with a fascinating history just waiting to be uncovered. In this four-part series, we’re not just looking back; we’re inviting you to step into the narratives that have shaped these magnificent buildings, creating a stay that is truly one-of-a-kind.
Our first chapter delves into Local lore & legend (from page 90) – a discovery of the tales woven into the very fabric of their local communities, from ancient folklore and literary inspirations to wartime secrets that add a captivating depth to your stay.
Next up, Famous faces & celebrated places (from page 96) spotlights the celebrated figures who have passed through our doors, from royalty and literary greats to stars of the silver screen. Then, we venture into Generations & history (from page 102), which delves into the grand visions and remarkable transformations that brought these hotels to life, revealing how their foundations are steeped in visionary design and enduring legacies. We then conclude our journey with Timeless treasures & historic relics (from page 114), a glimpse into the cherished items that bring these stories to life: think ancient guestbooks, significant artworks, and architectural echoes – each a tangible link to a curiously curated past.
Some stories are simply too good to keep within four walls. From ancient myths to wartime whispers, some of our most magical stays are inextricably tied to the legends and lore of their local landscape
Echoes of legend: literary and mythical inspirations
Some of our hotels are so captivating they’ve practically written their own story. We’re talking about properties that stand in landscapes so enchanting they’ve inspired poets, shaped mythical tales, and have captured imaginations for centuries.
Ness Walk Hotel
Just a short jaunt from this hotel stands Dunvegan Castle, a fortress that houses one of Scotland’s most treasured relics: the Fairy Flag. The ancient artifact is said to have the mystical power to save the clan in times of peril. Local whispers suggest it even helped to quell a fire at the castle in 1939.
Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa
Set on the serene shores of Bassenthwaite Lake, Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa is said to be the very spot where
Alfred, Lord Tennyson was inspired to write his epic poem, Morte d’Arthur. It’s believed he witnessed the pivotal scene of Sir Bedivere casting the legendary sword Excalibur into the lake right here, only for it to be caught by the mysterious Lady of the Lake.
Penmaenuchaf
Perched in the shadow of Cadair Idris, a mountain steeped in Welsh folklore, Penmaenuchaf offers a stay with a side of myth. Legend has it that anyone brave enough to spend a night on its summit will either wake up a poet, completely mad, or simply vanish without a trace. While we can’t promise any poetic awakenings, we can wholeheartedly recommend staying safely within the hotel’s warm embrace, where the only thing you’ll lose is track of time.
From mythical mountains to poetic landscapes, some of our most memorable stays are wrapped in local legend
Beyond their historic buildings, some of our hotels are equally renowned for their glorious grounds — gardens that tell their own stories of visionary design and glorious transformation.
This Cotswolds gem is surrounded by 12 acres of gardens, a magnificent vision first brought to life by Bertie Cox in the 1920s and meticulously restored to their original Arts and Crafts designs. Cox’s ambitious spirit lives on in the 22 distinct garden rooms and a 200-yearold olive tree, making it a wonderfully green, living piece of history.
Some of our hotels are more than just buildings; they’re direct links to significant moments in history. They’ve either witnessed groundbreaking innovation or welcomed some truly remarkable figures.
Farlam Hall hotel holds a unique place in history as the temporary home of none other than Stephenson’s Rocket, the locomotive that kickstarted the railway revolution. It’s even rumoured that the Rocket was tested on a special track laid right in the hotel’s garden – now that’s a story to tell over drinks in the aptly named Rocket Bar. While guests in the main lounge will experience the sonorous but grounding tick...tock...tick...tock of the wonderful Stephenson’s clock.
The hotel’s Foxhunter Bar is a celebration of a truly remarkable sporting partnership. It’s named after the legendary Olympic showjumping horse, Foxhunter, who, along with his rider Sir Harry Llewellyn, won Britain’s only gold medal at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics.
History isn’t just in the buildings — it’s in the legends, the lore, and the land that surrounds them. A stay at a PoB Hotel is an invitation to explore a new chapter of an ancient story.
The bar is adorned with photos of the iconic duo, and the hotel even has its own ‘Sir Harry’ beer to raise a glass to their inspiring story.
During the war, this castle was a very hush-hush rendezvous for some of the most powerful people in the world. Rumour has it that Winston Churchill and General Eisenhower may have met within these very walls for top-secret discussions before the D-day landings. A stay here offers a chance to walk the corridors where history was quite literally being made.
From ancient monuments to royal tales and cinematic backdrops, some of our most magical hotels have played a starring role on the stage of history, offering a glimpse into the lives of notable figures and the pivotal moments that have shaped their character
Whether they’ve welcomed royalty or played a direct role in a regal drama, these hotels have a distinctly royal flavour.
Hartwell House
Step into a slice of French history here. From 1809 to 1814, King Louis XVIII of France lived in exile at Hartwell House, plotting his return. In 1957, Dorothy Neville-Rolfe moved her finishing school, the House of Citizenship, to Hartwell, preparing young women for leadership and public service. Walk the same halls where a king dreamed of comeback and women were shaped for societal impact.
Hebridean Princess
The only cruise ship in the world to have been granted a Royal Warrant by the late Queen Elizabeth II herself, the Hebridean Princess truly offers a journey fit for royalty.
Her Majesty enjoyed two private family holidays on board, which is about the best recommendation a ship can get.
The Royal Crescent
The hotel’s very name is believed to be a nod to Frederick Augustus, the second son of King George III. And as if that weren’t enough, it has also welcomed modern legends, including the first man to walk on the moon, Neil Armstrong, a visitor who was — fittingly — accompanied by a full moon in the night sky.
Some of our hotels are guardians of a truly ancient past, sitting in landscapes that have witnessed millennia of human ambition.
Bishopstrow
From kings in exile to poets and rock stars, our hotels have always been a stage for the wonderfully famous and the famously wonderful.
This hotel is uniquely positioned in a landscape steeped in ancient history. The estate itself is home to a Neolithic long barrow and a smaller round barrow, hinting at thousands of years of human presence. A short drive away lies Stonehenge — because who doesn’t love the idea of a 5,000-year-old neighbour?
The Vineyard Hotel & Spa
Set amid Berkshire’s ancient landscapes, The Vineyard Hotel & Spa sits on land with echoes of history, surrounded by venerable trees and rolling hills. Its connection to winemaking adds a modern layer to an enduring story, inviting guests to savour both the present and the timeless spirit of the land.
These PoB Hotels are connected to influential figures from the worlds of literature and entertainment, or have provided unforgettable backdrops for beloved stories.
Seaham Hall
This hotel holds a captivating, if somewhat tumultuous, chapter in the life of Lord Byron, who married here. His notoriously unhappy union produced a famously brilliant daughter, Ada Lovelace, who would go on to be the world’s first computer programmer.
Middlethorpe Hall & Spa
This elegant house holds the secret of some of Britain’s most extraordinary women. Built in 1699, its most captivating chapter begins with Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, a brilliant writer, poet, and medical pioneer who rented the hall in the 18th century. It was after recovering from smallpox herself that she became a passionate advocate for inoculation, a form of early vaccination she observed in Constantinople. Her daring advocacy laid the groundwork for modern medicine, a truly pioneering act from a woman who was a delightfully different thinker. A century later, the hall was home to Fanny Rollo Wilkinson, Britain’s first professional female landscape gardener, who carved out a space for women in a male-dominated profession by creating ‘green lungs’ for London.
Homewood Hotel & Spa
The charming village and landscape surrounding this hotel starred in the classic comedy, The Titfield Thunderbolt. The film’s authentic charm was thanks to the local railway line and many villagers who appeared as extras, weaving the magic of the movies into the hotel’s very fabric.
The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences
Once a magnificent private abode for MP Henry Hope, brimming with elegance and whispered secrets, this hotel has since become a sanctuary for movie stars and famous faces. Every guest adds a new chapter to its story of glamour and whispered histories in the heart of Mayfair.
The Swan at Lavenham
The ‘Queen of Country’, Dolly Parton herself, once stayed here and loved it so much that she sent a telegram to the hotel afterwards. In it, she said it was “one of the best times of my whole life”, a message proudly displayed on the hotel’s wall of history.
Jersey is intrinsically linked to periods of conflict, presenting a poignant connection to significant moments in our history.
Jersey’s resilient spirit shines, offering a peaceful retreat where history and tranquillity beautifully blend.
Situated on Jersey, an island that was the only British territory to fall under German occupation during World War II, the tunnels and bunkers are open for exploration — after which you can return to the hotel for a reflective and serene retreat. Just a short stroll from the hotel, you’ll find the iconic La Corbière Lighthouse, a striking beacon that stands as a testament to the island’s enduring spirit. It’s a place where you can feel the weight of history and the lightness of a seaside escape.
PoB Hotels are living testaments to centuries of history, each with a unique narrative woven into its very foundations. From ancient estates to transformed vessels, these properties reveal stories of visionaries, pioneers, and pivotal moments
Some of our hotels began as ambitious projects, conceived by individuals with such grand visions they not only transformed landscapes but left enduring architectural legacies for us all to enjoy.
Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa
This curious Sussex hideaway is a beautiful contradiction. It was built in the 1920s with salvaged medieval materials by a couple who wanted a private sanctuary for high society. The result is a seamless blend of ancient charm and modern luxury, all within a wonderfully unique setting.
Bovey Castle
The sheer grandeur of Bovey Castle is thanks to William Henry Smith, the founder of the WH Smith newsagents. He bought an astonishing 5,000 acres in 1890, and his son built the lavish neo-Elizabethan manor as
a country retreat fit for a family with a truly big idea.
Grantley Hall
Grantley Hall’s story is a tapestry woven over centuries. It has gone from a classical Palladian home to a WWII convalescent ward, to a luxury five-star hotel. This grand Yorkshire beacon is a testament to the ravishingly refined vision of those who have nurtured it through the ages.
Our hotels are places where grand visions took root, shaping landscapes and leaving architectural wonders for generations to discover.
A true testament to horticultural genius, this hotel was home to the pioneering gardener William Robinson. He built the unique elliptical kitchen garden with a subtle ‘frost gate’ to drain cold air and protect his produce. His innovative vision still supplies fresh ingredients to the Michelin-starred restaurant, beautifully blending form and function.
In 1874, this Jacobean home was reimagined by John Pollard Seddon, a notable Neogothic architect commissioned by the Lewis family. His distinctive mark is evident in the ornate fireplaces, sweeping staircase, and strikingly proportioned rooms that give the Grove its perceptible and charming comfort.
Commissioned by a High Sheriff of Leicestershire in the late 19th century, this grand Victorian residence was built for comfort, society, and status. It has hosted countless dignified moments and, after a full-scale restoration, continues to offer a perfect blend of restored beauty and modern luxury.
This hotel’s history is tied to the ambition of Sir John Black, Managing Director of the Standard Motor Company. In 1936, he purchased the hotel and spent a great deal of time and effort restoring and adding features like oak-panelling in the dining rooms, a squash court and an extra bath in the main bathroom, which is now part of the Blenheim Suite – cementing its status as a quintessential country house.
Ellenborough Park
Ellenborough Park’s history began in 1485 when a tenant farmer set out to build his home, creating the Great Hall that is now the heart of the hotel. He made his mark with his own coat of arms and by honouring King Henry VII and Queen Elizabeth of York in the stained-glass windows still visible today. It’s a testament to the grand vision that began over 500 years ago.
This Edinburgh gem was built in 1687 by the King’s architect, Sir William Bruce, the same man who designed the Palace of Holyroodhouse. As such, Prestonfield was infused with the same classical elegance and baroque grandeur, making it a masterpiece of design from the very beginning.
Some of our hotels have played significant roles in society, leaving a mark on culture, literature, and the very fabric of British life.
Some roots run deeper than others. The Priory isn’t the kind of place that needs to shout about its history. You can simply feel it. It’s story began with a delightful twist of fate: the family set out to buy a few antiques at auction and came home as the proud new owners of this magnificent former monastery. Led by a deep love for its heritage, they embarked on a quiet mission to preserve what made it special and bring it back to life. The gardens, which the celebrated writer Margery Fish once described as “a place of mystery and surprise,” are a perfect example. They aren’t over-manicured, but are simply allowed to grow with a kind of grace. Today, you can still feel that personal touch – from the welcoming warmth of the Cloisters Bar to the lovingly tended gardens and the lightfilled charm of The Garden Room restaurant.
This hotel’s turbulent past includes fierce local opposition – dubbed the ‘Newquay Riots’ (1897) – by fishermen and farmers who objected to it being built on their common land. Despite arson and protest, the grand vision prevailed. After a stint as an RAF hospital in WWII, and a monumental restoration by a dedicated family, it has since played host to a cult Hollywood movie and continues to be a bastion of Cornish hospitality.
Since the 17th century, Ockenden Manor has been owned by just two families, the most recent of which has continued the tradition of naming the bedrooms after family members. It’s a wonderfully personal nod to its charming comfort and the centuries of family history woven into its very walls.
Bodysgallen Hall & Spa
More than just luxurious stays, our hotels are custodians of history, their walls echoing with tales of cultural impact, lasting history and stories that resonate through every stone...
With origins as a 13th-century watchtower, Bodysgallen Hall & Spa owes its legacy to a truly pioneering woman, Lady Henrietta Augusta Mostyn. She not only rescued the hall from decline but also helped transform Llandudno into the ‘Queen of Welsh Resorts’.
Talbooth House & Spa
This hotel is set in a landscape that has inspired artists for centuries. Not only did John Constable famously say the view “made me a painter,” but the celebrated equestrian artist Sir Alfred Munnings was also a regular guest at the sister restaurant, sketching on napkins he would take home. The hotel continues this rich artistic legacy today, with rooms named after English poets and a curated luxury art trail package.
The Relais Henley
With its roots as a 16th-century coaching inn, this hotel has welcomed travellers for centuries. It’s so steeped in royal history that one room even hosted King Charles I in 1632, with his royal coat of arms still preserved over the fireplace — a devilishly good piece of history.
Thurlestone Hotel & Spa
One of the UK’s oldest family-run hotels, Thurlestone’s story is one of true resilience. After losing their farm to a foot-and-mouth outbreak during the 1890’s, the Grose family transformed their farmhouse into a hotel. 130 years later, their legacy of exceptional service continues, with founder Margaret Amelia Grose’s portrait still hanging in their restaurant The Trevilder.
The Hari
Every detail of this hotel speaks to a legacy that began with its founder, Dr. Hari Harilela, a man who believed that hospitality starts with treating every employee like family. Now led by his son, Dr. Aron Harilela, it’s a living story built on generations of valuing connection, care, and curiosity.
Gilpin Hotel & Lake House
Run by the Cunliffe family since 1988, this quintessentially British hotel is a story of enduring passion. Originally the home of John Cunliffe’s grandmother, the family bought it back and transformed it, dedicating themselves to creating a welcoming, familyrun haven of calm, style, and great comfort that has won countless hearts, and awards.
The Nare Hotel is a testament to the enduring vision of a single family, reimagined in 1988 by Bettye Gray, who transformed it into a sanctuary of charming comfort. Her grandson, Toby Ashworth, has since continued the legacy, and for over three decades, the Ashworth family’s unwavering dedication has solidified its reputation as a beloved Cornish institution, deeply woven into the fabric of local life and seaside leisure.
After inheriting the hall, a former fox-hunter named Eva Astley Paston Cooper transformed it into a vibrant literary salon between the wars. She taught playwright Noël Coward the very upper-class manners and wit that became the foundation of his famous ‘comedies of manners’.
The story of Park House is a tale of family hospitality. The O’Briens began it as a ‘home-from-
home’ in the 1940s, and their grandson, Seamus, continues the legacy, evolving it into an idyllic retreat while preserving the warmth and charm that has defined it for generations.
For centuries, this hotel was the very heart of its community. It was originally a local inn, hosting everything from fairs and markets to auctions, all of which helped to shape the local economy and social life. Its enduring legacy is a testament to its pivotal role in fostering local connections and commerce, continuing to welcome guests with its rich heritage.
Palé Hall
This grand Welsh estate has welcomed some remarkable figures. It was a home to Queen Victoria, who even planted a Turkey Oak on the grounds, and a serene retreat for Sir Winston Churchill. Today, you can stay in rooms named after both of these truly great figures.
Beyond luxurious stays, PoB Hotels have legacies that are woven into the very fabric of British life, holding tales of culture, history, and enduring, much-loved traditions.
This house holds a rich tapestry of history. It was once the residence of the Duchess of Dudley; and the country home of Prince Louis of Battenberg, grandfather of Prince Philip. In its gardens, it’s believed Prince Andrew of Greece proposed to Alice, setting the scene for a truly modern-day fairy-tale.
Some of our hotels have undergone remarkable transformations, adapting to changing times while preserving their inherent character.
Boringdon Hall has a history stretching back to the Domesday Book; this hall was once an ‘enchanted place on the hill’. Though largely destroyed in the Civil War, its spirit of resilience and beauty lived on, and its particularly indulgent revival has transformed it into an enchanting place once more.
Mar Hall
Mar Hall’s story begins with an architect of magnificent tastes: Sir Robert Smirke, the very man who gave London its revered British Museum. Now, this grand mansion is embarking on a thrilling new chapter, having been lovingly and luxuriously reimagined as a truly international destination. The hotel has been artfully restored to unveil a new identity that is both distinctive and tastefully timeless. The grand history remains, but it’s now beautifully blended with a delightfully chic modern twist, ready to welcome you into a new era of Scottish grandeur.
Matfen Hall Hotel, Golf & Spa
In the heart of Northumberland, Matfen Hall is a grand estate with a story or two to tell; it’s a 17th-century masterpiece that decided to get an impeccable makeover, complete with a championship golf course and a spa. Here, heritage isn’t stuffy, it’s a conversation. The kind you have with a perfectly poured G&T in hand.
Calcot & Spa
The history of Calcot is a journey of transformation. From Roman dwellings to a 14th-century tithe barn, the site has been a gathering place for centuries. Despite fires and rebuilds, it continues to evolve and intrigue, with archaeologists still puzzling over its elegant ecclesiastical window and mysterious hidden tunnels.
The story of Fingal is one of beautiful reinvention. It began its life in 1963 as a Northern Lighthouse Board tender, navigating Scotland’s treacherous seas. It has been transformed into a delightfully different luxury floating hotel, with a spectacular ballroom, Art Decoinspired style, and a history that is still told through every lovingly restored inch.
The Painswick
Long before it was a hotel, this hillside was a site for an Iron Age fort. The building, raised in the 18th century, was once a vicarage, home to a Reverend who transformed it into an Arts & Crafts masterpiece. Today, it remains a part of village life, a timeless travel destination with over 200 years of stories to tell.
The Torridon is a testament to honouring heritage while embracing innovation. Under the guidance of the RoseBristow family, it has been transformed into a worldleading hotel. The new tartan, woven with the colours of the Highlands, is a beautiful symbol of their dedication to preserving its legacy while weaving new memories into its story.
Yorebridge House
This hotel began its story not as a retreat, but as a place of learning — a headmaster’s residence and grammar school in 1871. Its original Victorian architecture and high ceilings have been lovingly restored, preserving the soul of the building while transforming it into an elegant and especially extravagant boutique hotel.
Some stories are simply too good to be forgotten. We’re journeying back through time to uncover the cherished items – ancient guestbooks to significant artworks and architectural marvels – that bring the unique stories of these PoB Hotels to life
Some of our hotels hold onto precious records that capture the very essence of their past, offering a direct glimpse into the lives of those who walked their halls.
Cromlix
Cromlix proudly safeguards a magnificent Visitors’ Book from the 1880s, a tangible link to its Victorian heyday. This exquisite artifact features beautiful handdrawn images and heartfelt notes from guests, and even an entry from King Edward VII, adding a royal flourish to its history.
Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa
While the Duchess of Bedford may have simply wanted a snack to cure “that sinking feeling”,
her ingenious solution gave the world afternoon tea. Today, the hotel proudly upholds this tradition, inviting you to connect directly to this charming piece of British social history.
Discover cherished antiques, lovingly preserved within our hotels, offering a tangible connection to their rich, unfolding stories.
Some hotels preserve unique architectural elements, with a few giving a second life to pieces that were almost lost to history.
This hotel holds a fascinating tale of salvaged history. During a refurbishment, the maintenance manager rescued two beautiful stained-glass windows from a skip, destined for the rubbish pile. He later discovered they were relics from a neighbouring manor, making them a testament to a keen eye and a commitment to preserving history.
From intricate mechanisms to grand art collections, these hotels showcase truly unique items that speak to human ingenuity, artistic vision, and enduring beauty.
Tucked in the ancient Ribble Valley hills, on the edge of the Forest of Bowland’s timeless beauty, Northcote is deeply rooted in a landscape shaped over millennia. Its setting, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offers a tranquil haven that connects guests to the enduring spirit of the land.
A cultural beacon with an extraordinary collection of over 14,000 art objects, this hotel is a treat for the eyes. Its collection spans centuries, from Pablo Picasso to a stunning pencil sketch drawn by Queen Victoria herself, proving that royalty has excellent taste in holiday destinations and hotels, too.
A curiously curated haven in Knightsbridge, this hotel’s interiors are a romantic tribute to the Pre-Raphaelite art movement and the paintings of Dante Gabriel Rossetti. Its custom designs and rich, jewel-toned palettes make it a living piece of art in the heart of London.
The Capital Hotel Apartments & Townhouse
London, a city that wasn’t built in a day, but has been constantly reimagined. From its humble beginnings as Roman Londinium, a vital port on the Thames, this sprawling metropolis has defied plagues, fires, and wars, consistently rising from its ashes to claim its place on the world stage. Each cobbled street and grand avenue whispers tales of monarchs, revolutionaries, and pioneering spirits.
The city’s heart, once confined by ancient walls, blossomed through the medieval era into the grand Georgian and Victorian expansions. It was then that iconic neighbourhoods like Mayfair,
Knightsbridge, and Belgravia –now home to our three wonderful PoB Hotels – truly took shape. These districts, once the preserve of aristocracy and burgeoning commerce, became synonymous with refined taste and architectural splendour, setting the stage for centuries of influence.
London is a living, breathing testament to enduring character and relentless innovation. This is a city that never stops evolving, yet proudly holds its past. PoB Hotels, with their distinctive spirit, are perfectly positioned within this vibrant tapestry, inviting guests to discover the city and its incredible landmarks.
Where to make your best
Visit for: Curated luxury | Style: Contemporary, yet sophisticated
“Arguably one of London’s best locations (and certainly its most verdant), at the west end of Piccadilly where Hyde Park and Green Park meet. It merits special plaudits for its artful balance of luxury and family-friendliness.” FT How To Spend It
This Art-Deco beauty has been gracing the heart of Mayfair since 1850. A testament to enduring elegance, it’s a place where history meets now with a knowing smile. Step outside, and Green Park unfurls before you like a vast, verdant carpet. Step inside, and you’re immediately enveloped in the height of contemporary glamour. This is your sanctuary, a blissful escape from the urban hum where you can sip and soak in the cityscape. It’s reminiscent of, though blissfully quieter than, the Victorian gentleman’s club that once resided within these very walls. Choose your perfect haven: a sleek room, a spacious suite, or even your very own front door in the private, traditional red-brick townhouse residences – a truly impeccable Mayfair home from home. All at once sleek, glitzy, welcoming and outrageously comfortable.
Interesting Fact: The Athenaeum boasts London’s longest living wall, a lush, vertical garden stretching over 10 storeys high!
Local inspiration: Shepherd Market.
Don’t forget: Your appetite for the Fancies & Foliage Afternoon Tea.
Closest airport: London Heathrow
Closest rail station: Green Park
“This five-star boutique hotel boasts a top location on a quiet road among high-end designer stores in Knightsbridge.” Telegraph Online
Step into The Capital Hotel, and you’ll immediately understand why it’s known as a ‘grand hotel in miniature’. With Tom Brown at The Capital, a restaurant as celebrated as it is welcoming, this Knightsbridge gem is a true refuge of English elegance. The city’s hustle and bustle feels miles away, replaced by the promise of delightful decadence.
As the door swings open to the small, perfectly formed lobby, your London bolthole experience unfurls. The concierge will guide you past the buzzing cocktail bar to your table at Tom Brown at The Capital — a place where a modern seafood tasting menu and authentic hospitality combine for a ravishingly refined meal. The menu, impeccably plated and devilishly good, is a fitting start to your stay, leaving you free to plan tomorrow’s adventures with a perfectly pampered smile. Utterly cocooned despite being in the very heart of London, you’ll feel completely at home in this timeless stalwart of a hotel.
Interesting Fact: In 1973 the Capital Hotel gained distinction as one of the first hotels in London to achieve a Michelin Star.
Local inspiration: The V&A Museum, a treasure trove of design and artistry.
Don’t forget: Extra luggage to transport all of those Harrods shopping bags!
Closest airport: London Heathrow
Closest rail station: Knightsbridge
22-24 Basil Street, Knightsbridge, SW3 1AT 0207 591 1200
“For a personable, well-connected London base tucked away in Belgravia – this feels like a secret hotel for romantic liaisons or a weekend break taking in a show or exhibition, shopping on Sloane Street then stretching out for an indulgent Sunday morning.” Conde Nast Traveller
Interesting Fact: The Hari has been named one of the most sustainable hotels in the world.
Local inspiration: John Sandoe Books.
Don’t forget: To carve out time for a delightful mooch around Belgravia’s historic garden squares.
Closest airport: London Heathrow
Closest rail station: Sloane Street
In the heart of Belgravia, where the grandeur of Georgian stucco winks at distinctive Pont Street Dutch architecture, you’ll discover The Hari. It’s a vibrant, understated escape crafted for the discerning modern traveller, offering a luxurious and culturally rich experience. Think of it as your very own quintessentially British backdrop, inviting timeless travels just a hop, skip, and a perfectly polished jump from Hyde Park, the iconic Harrods, and the artistic buzz of the Saatchi Gallery.
One of The Hari’s true temptations is its neighbourhood Italian gem, Il Pampero. Expect deliciously distinctive homemade cuisine served in an ambiance so Italian chic it practically purrs, promising true flavour fanfares with every bite. This is where conversations linger like a good vintage, and memories are made, one delightful dish at a time.
20 Chesham Place, London, London, SW1X 8HQ 0207 8580110
Think of PoB Hotels as the key and each one of our hotels as a door to new experiences. Each completely unique. Each hand-picked by us. Each the Pride of Britain.
Discover
It’s said that the South East of England has a little bit of everything: a little bit of coast, a little bit of countryside, and more than a little history. But to us, it’s not about having it all – it’s about a countrified British kind of bliss. This is where ancient forests meet rolling chalk hills, where smugglers’ coves hide along windswept shores, and where stories are etched into the very landscape.
From the grand estates of the Home Counties to the sun-drenched vineyards of Sussex, the South East is a curated collection of contrasts. It’s where you can walk in the footsteps of
kings at Windsor Castle, then retreat to a hidden gem of a pub with a pint of local ale. This is an authentic England that’s perfectly at ease with its rich heritage yet always has a twinkle in its eye.
Our collection of twelve PoB Hotels in this picturesque region are a testament to this spirit. Whether it’s a historic manor with a wine cellar that’s more museum than cellar, or a boutique retreat nestled in a market town brimming with charm, each property has its own unique character and is perfectly placed. Through them, you can access a region that’s both wonderfully familiar and endlessly surprising.
Where to make your best memories in the South East
Windsor Castle
The National Horseracing Museum
Waddesdon Manor
Beaulieu National Motor Museum
Highclere Castle
“I spent the final hours of my stay exploring the grounds, the moat walk and wild meadows. Even on a glorious day these corners of the hotel are quieter than the spa and perfect for reading, enjoying a picnic or sitting in silence among the lavender and cornflowers.” The Sunday Telegraph
Interesting Fact: Bailiffscourt was built in the 1920s using reclaimed ancient materials.
Local inspiration: Climping Beach.
Don’t forget: Time to uncover undiscovered favourites in the antique shops of Petworth and Arundel. Who knows what treasures you’ll unearth?
Closest airport: London Gatwick
Closest rail station: Littlehampton
Prepare to be enchanted with unique medieval-style architecture, a spa that built in the style of a Sussex barn, 30 acres of rolling parkland and a fresh sea breeze with the Sussex coast on your doorstep. These are just the opening notes to a truly timeless stay at Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa.
Venture deeper through the inner courtyard to discover the underground passageway. Or simply surrender to the award-winning spa, where ravishing rituals promise pure, unadulterated bliss. When hunger calls, take your time over impeccably plated, Sussex-sourced seasonal menus.
Then, retire to one of the sumptuous bedrooms, each a chapter of character. Some boast grand four-poster beds, others inviting roll-top baths, all packed with character. And most importantly, expect a welcome as warm as the open fires that glow throughout this special hotel.
Climping Street, Climping, Nr. Arundel, Sussex, BN17 5RW 0190 372 3511
Visit for: The award-winning spa | Style: Classic elegance
“This striking Georgian property is a popular choice for racegoers thanks to its location
– just a 10-minute walk from the famous Newmarket Training Grounds. The spa is the hotel’s crowning glory.” Sunday Express Magazine
Interesting Fact: Newmarket is home to over 3000 horses!
Local inspiration: The National Horse Racing Museum.
Don’t forget: To book a race day and soak up the atmosphere of Newmarket; it’s an experience worth packing for.
Closest airport: London Stansted
Closest rail station: Newmarket
Originally an 18th-century Georgian hunting lodge, built for the Duke of Bedford, Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa is perfectly placed in Newmarket. This special hotel, ensconced within three acres of pristine, beautifully landscaped gardens, offers a wonderful retreat with a rich and vibrant history.
A place where charming comfort waltzes with luxurious, contemporary flair. Experience the world of horse racing firsthand, with the renowned training yards, legendary stables and paddocks of Newmarket located next door. And for those in need of some pampering? Within the hotel’s grounds lies The Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel. Picture yourself floating in a sunlit hydrotherapy pool, or soaking in the rooftop hot tub with scenic views. This is where you can truly escape, with a dash of classic English elegance and a whole lot of modern luxury.
Bury Road, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 7BX 0163 866 3175
“Luckily for us, Robinson’s gardens can today be visited. Even better, they are now part of a gracious hotel that turns the garden’s edibles into Michelin-starred food.” The Times
From the intricately carved fireplaces to the ornate ceilings, this Sussex country manor holds a wealth of stories within its walls. Step outside, and prepare for a gasp: 1,000 acres of ravishingly refined countryside unfurl before you, promising timeless travels and an invitation to simply breathe.
This is a place where house and garden don’t just coexist; they feel perfectly at one, the beautiful grounds delighting in their embrace of the property. And the food? Oh, the food. Here, freshly grown produce from the kitchen garden becomes an integral, star-studded part of every impeccably plated meal in the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant. It’s a place of timeless tranquillity in the countryside. Expect a serene retreat where spirits are effortlessly lifted, stresses become a distant memory, and the enthusiasm and passion of the team truly shine.
Interesting Fact: Gravetye Manor’s ‘wild garden,’ is one of England’s most historically significant gardens.
Local inspiration: Ardingly Antiques Fair.
Don’t forget: Your trusty plant identification book or app to explore the fabled flower garden.
Closest airport: London Gatwick
Closest rail station: East Grinstead
Vowels Lane, West Hoathly, Sussex, RH19 4LJ
0134 281 0567
Michelin Star
“A guest at Hartwell House is following in the footsteps of centuries of guests. As we approach for our stay, it’s easy to see why: there’s a real sense of timeless comfort and tranquillity here.” National Trust Magazine
Interesting Fact: The Royal Meteorological Society was formed 175 years ago in the Library at Hartwell House.
Local inspiration: The Rothschild Treasure House Waddesdon, and Stowe Mansion and Gardens.
Don’t forget: To count the curious folly buildings and statues in the park.
Closest airport: London Heathrow
Closest rail station: Haddenham & Thame Parkway
Hartwell House stands proudly in the Vale of Aylesbury, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Part Jacobean and part Georgian, this mansion is both certain of its past and confident of its present, truly standing not just in history, but as history itself. Now part of the National Trust and once the residence in exile of Louis XVIII of France, it continues to offer hospitable magnificence that feels like a well-kept secret, where the very air hums with tales.
The public rooms display fine architecture, grand fireplaces, furniture, and art from its splendid history, each piece a silent storyteller unfolding before you. In the spa, float in the pool of this Regency-style oasis, a perfect sanctuary for leaving the world behind. The bedrooms, some named after famous historic residents, continue the theme without disappointment, each one an impeccably independent and delightful chapter.
Oxford Road, near Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP17 8NR 0129 674 7444
Visit for: Vines & verdant views | Style: Elizabethan grandeur, reimagined
“In less than an hour, visitors can escape the stresses of London and reach the tranquil grounds of this manor house set in nine acres of gardens. The hotel is well respected for its excellent spa facilities.” Evening Standard
Interesting Fact: During the Second World War, Ockenden Manor served as a safe haven for evacuated children.
Local inspiration: New England Wood.
Don’t forget: Your walking shoes! There’s a whole countryside to explore, and Sussex vineyards to discover amid the vines.
Closest airport: London Gatwick
Closest rail station: Haywards Heath
Ockenden Manor isn’t simply a place to rest your head; it’s an Elizabethan house with a delightful secret, tucked away within nine acres of glorious gardens.
Imagine, if you will, oak-panelled rooms that hum with history and stained-glass windows that practically wink in the sunlight, all while gazing out over the idyllic Cuckfield Park.
It’s refined, rather ravishing, and unapologetically individual. Hidden within a 19th-century walled garden, the spa is a truly unexpected delight – a 21st-century architectural marvel fed by the hotel’s own natural spring.
Its sleek, contemporary design provides a delicious contrast to the pastoral beauty of the Sussex countryside and vineyards on the doorstep, with the local vintages virtually on tap. Here, you can indulge in delicious dining, soak up centuries of stories, sip wine and simply let your imagination do the rest.
Ockenden Lane, Cuckfield, Sussex, RH17 5LD 0144 441 6111
Visit for: Charming comfort | Style: Countryside chic
“What a gem - it felt a bit like being in an Agatha Christie novel. Enveloped in the soft grooves of the South Downs National Park, it’s an inviting haven for those seeking a relaxing getaway.” The Week Online
Interesting Fact: Park House began welcoming guests in the late 1940s, offering bed and breakfast to international polo players visiting the nearby Cowdray Park.
Local inspiration: St Mary’s Church.
Don’t forget: Your racket! Park House offers championship-standard grass tennis courts.
Closest airport: London Gatwick
Closest rail station: Haslemere
From the moment you arrive, you’ll sense that delightful blend of classic and contemporary British design that makes this charming country house hotel with a nod to English eccentricity so utterly unique.
Take a leisurely climb up the stairs, perhaps pausing to soak in the wealth of family history adorning the walls, before making yourself wonderfully at home in one of the 23 luxurious bedrooms. Think elegant French toile, inviting chaise longues, and views of the glorious Sussex countryside stretching out beyond your window.
And then there’s the spa – a truly award-winning marvel. Whether it’s the heated outdoor pool, as inviting as a sunny afternoon, or the indoor sanctuary, with its siren-like allure of mother-of-pearl tiles, you’ll discover why it’s earned such acclaim. This is a place to unwind, indulge, and simply be.
Bepton, Nr Midhurst, West Sussex, GU29 0JB 0173 081 9000
Visit for: Family-run finesse | Style: Georgian grandeur, modern twist
“This grand Hertfordshire-based hotel has taken the quest for exclusivity quite seriously with the relaunch of its wellness facilities into a sprawling spa, comprising Cottonmill and the even more exclusive, The Club at Cottonmill.” Wallpaper Magazine
Interesting Fact: Sopwell House was once the country residence of Lord Mountbatten.
Local inspiration: The Ye Olde Fighting Cocks: the oldest pub in England!
Don’t forget: Your swimwear for the outstanding spa – it’s an absolute treat.
Closest airport: London Luton
Closest rail station: St Albans
Tucked away amidst 12 acres of Hertfordshire countryside in St Albans, Sopwell House is where Georgian grandeur meets the genuine warmth of an independently owned and family-run hotel.
Here, modernist architectural features sit rather beautifully among ancient avenues of colossal oaks, poplars, and beech trees, offering a captivating blend of heritage and contemporary comfort. If trees could talk, these sentinels would whisper tales of Anne Boleyn’s stay or even the engagement evening of HRH Duke of Edinburgh’s parents. It’s sophistication in every detail, delivered with a wonderfully personal touch, creating an oasis of calm and curious delights for every guest. In St Albans, you’ll discover Ye Olde Fighting Cocks – a must-visit for anyone who appreciates a fine ale and a dollop of unique history.
Cottonmill Lane, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 2HQ 0172 786 4477
“More like a private home than a hotel, the 12 bedroom Talbooth House suits those who want a proper country escape. It’s deep in Dedham Vale, think sherbet-coloured cottages and strolls along the river Stour.” The Sunday TimesBest Places To Stay 2023
Interesting Fact: The Talbooth Restaurant, began life in the 1950s as a humble roadside tearoom.
Local inspiration: River Stour and Flatford Mill.
Don’t forget: Your swimwear! The outdoor pool is heated all year.
Closest airport: London Stansted
Closest rail station: Colchester
Step into Talbooth House, a prestigious Victorian country house where every space is as wonderfully individual as the hotel itself. From the moment you arrive, cast your gaze from the terrace, across the sprawling lawns and tennis court, and out to the iconic “Constable’s Country” beyond. It’s a scene, quite frankly, blissfully British and worth packing for.
Indulge your senses at the 3 AA Rosette riverside restaurant, or carve out some blissful “me-time” at the ultrarelaxing spa. Take a refreshing plunge in the outdoor pool and hot tub, heated year-round for your pleasure. Afterwards, simply don a robe, curl up on a sofa in the pool house, and let the crackle of the open log fire be your sole companion. This is curated luxury at its finest: a luxurious escape with charm woven into its very fabric, promising timeless travels and ravishing rituals.
Stratford Road, Dedham, Colchester, Essex, CO7 6HN 0120 632 2795
“This smart hotel in the centre of the charming village of Beaulieu makes a sophisticated and relaxing place to stay while exploring the New Forest, with the benefit of excellent food and a timeless atmosphere.” The Telegraph
Interesting Fact: During WWII, the hotel was a strategic post for the Home Guard.
Local inspiration: The world-renowned Beaulieu National Motor Museum.
Don’t forget: Your walking boots! The New Forest National Park is on your doorstep, just begging to be explored.
Closest airport: Southampton
Closest rail station: Brockenhurst
Imagine a place where ancient woodlands whisper tales and wild ponies are your breakfast companions. The Montagu Arms is a captivating country house hotel, perfectly placed in the very heart of the New Forest National Park. This is where refined elegance embraces the untamed beauty of nature, creating an escape truly worth savouring.
Enjoy culinary excellence, genuine forest-to-fork dining, and exquisite ingredients plucked fresh from the hotel’s own extensive kitchen garden at the Terrace Restaurant.
Picture yourself in a classic riverside setting, surrounded by meticulously tended gardens vibrant with flora and birdsong, all while soaking in soothing views of lush greenery or the serene river. It’s a place to unwind, indulge, and perhaps even spot a free-roaming deer adding a touch of natural theatre to your morning.
Palace Lane, Beaulieu, Hampshire, SO42 7ZL 0159 062 4467
“This gorgeous property is perfectly located in the middle of Henley with river views in many of the rooms. This 16th-century coaching inn now reimagined is modern and elegant with thick lush carpets and charming service. The attention to detail throughout the design is really impressive.” Luxuriate Life
Interesting Fact: The Relais Henley building served as a traditional coaching inn for over 300 years.
Local inspiration: The riverbank is where life truly unfolds in Henley with romantic boat trips and inviting picnic spots.
Don’t forget: Some comfy boating shoes!
Closest airport: London Heathrow
Closest rail station: Henley-on-Thames
Perched on the banks of the Thames in the historic market town of Henley-on-Thames, The Relais Henley is where classic British hospitality meets captivating riverside charm. This is a place to stay, play, work, or simply unwind, all within the easy familiarity of one of its 40 chic and elegant rooms. Each space is inspired by the lively flow of the river through the surrounding English countryside, inviting you to both discover centuries of stories and write a few new ones of your own. It’s truly a quintessentially British escape, delightfully different. Treat yourself to delicious dining at the award-winning Restaurant Dominic Chapman, grab an artisan deli picnic, or catch up with friends at the vibrant Palm Court and Quarterdeck Bar. For those in the know, The Relais Henley is the perfect spot to truly live like a local during the Henley Royal Regatta and Rewind Festival
Hart St, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 2AR 0149 152 3288
“Made up of three restored Tudor houses and the Woolhall, set around courtyard gardens, The Swan at Lavenham has traditional bedrooms (some with four posters), Airmen’s Bar and a great spa.” Luxuriate Life
Interesting Fact: The Swan at Lavenham was once a coaching inn; its grand archway was used by Oliver Cromwell’s troops.
Local inspiration: The Crooked House on the High Street and charming tearooms.
Don’t forget: Your four-legged friends –dogs are very welcome here.
Closest airport: London Stansted
Closest rail station: Sudbury
Wind your way down charming streets of crooked medieval houses and prepare to be utterly captivated. Nestled amongst 300 listed buildings, the enchanting 15th-century Swan at Lavenham Hotel & Spa awaits. Step inside through its grand oak door, and you’re immediately greeted by the timeless allure of exposed beams, heritage brickwork, and cosy lounges where fires roar. This delightful, maze-like building is full of surprises, inviting you to happily lose yourself in its historic charm.
Expect nothing short of an indulgent experience. The Swan offers a range of delightful menus, including a truly delicious afternoon tea, with two remarkable restaurants, and a beautiful secret garden perfect for quiet moments. For a taste of history with your tipple, the historic bar beckons. Be sure to pamper yourself with an array of dreamy treatments at the Weavers’ House Spa.
High Street, Lavenham, Suffolk, CO10 9QA 0178 724 7477
Visit for: Delve into the world of wine | Style: Classic, refined indulgence
“Britain’s best wine hotel will appeal to less ‘mature’, millennial plonk drinkers as well as more ‘vintage’ oenophiles. Don’t miss the tasting menu with paired wines.” Telegraph Online
Step through the front doors of The Vineyard, and prepare for an introduction to pure indulgence. You’ll be greeted by an impressive, floor-to-ceiling glass wine vault, a prelude to the remarkable experiences within: an award-winning spa and unmissable dining.
Look down, if you dare, to discover 5,000 bottles of wine beneath your feet – a mere glimpse of the astonishing 15,000-bottle collection. This is a cellar truly worth writing about, and indeed, many do.
The Vineyard boasts 15,000 bins and 100 wines by the glass, ensuring every palate finds its perfect match. Expect fine dining that flawlessly complements the exceptional wines - this is one of the best wine hotels in the UK.
Interesting Fact: The Vineyard’s impressive wine cellar extends five levels deep!
Local inspiration: Highclere Castle, the filming location of Downton Abbey.
Don’t forget: An open mind for wine! Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious novice.
Closest airport: London Heathrow
Closest rail station: Newbury
Stockcross, Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 8JU 0163 552 8770
Whether
The South West is a land of myth and legend, where ancient history feels as alive as the salty sea air. It’s a place of ravishing rituals and rugged coastlines, of windswept moors and lush, hidden valleys. While some see it as a destination for adventure, we see it as an invitation to escape – to slow down and enjoy a slice of England where you can fully appreciate life’s finer, simpler pleasures. From the dramatic cliffs of Cornwall to the rolling hills of Dorset, this ‘never far from the coast’ region is a delightful medley of landscapes and experiences, offering a slower pace and more gentle rhythm. While
away an afternoon in a quaint fishing village, hunt for fossils along the Jurassic Coast, or simply find a sun-drenched spot for a perfectly pampered afternoon tea. Our collection of nine PoB Hotels in the South West is a unique celebration of these surroundings, from a grand manor house with deliciously distinctive dining to a family-owned hotel set on its own stretch of golden sands. Or perhaps you’d prefer a serene spa retreat located within a spectacular Roman city, promising complete tranquillity. Each property has been handpicked to help you create a lasting memory of your own very special story
Where to make your best memories in the South West
The Roman Baths
Dartmoor National Park
The Lost Village of Imber
Jurassic Coast
Little Fistral Beach
“Bishopstrow, with its own meadows and section of river, is a country house hotel that aims to be a little quirkier than most. It’s probably best known for its destination spa, but the lavish and vibrant bedrooms are another good reason to take a trip to this bucolic corner of Wiltshire.” The Telegraph
Interesting Fact: The sprawling grounds of Bishopstrow Hotel are home to three ancient barrows.
Local inspiration: The Lost Village of Imber. uninhabited and historic.
Don’t forget: Your sense of blissful surrender – you’ll need it for the spa.
Closest airport: Bristol
Closest rail station: Warminster
Built back in 1817, Bishopstrow Hotel & Spa is a country house brimming with unique period features and an undeniable charm. Here, decadent bedrooms and bathrooms, a vibrant restaurant, and a renowned spa sympathetically combine historic elegance with contemporary details, offering the very best of old and new. Set within 30 glorious acres, the River Wylye meanders through the grounds, graced by a charming summerhouse and doric temple, hinting at peaceful riverside afternoons.
This hotel is renowned for its destination spa, and with its beautiful bedrooms and vast grounds, it’s an excellent option for families and four-legged friends. Expect culinary finesse at The Garden Grill, where a ‘No-Dig’ kitchen garden informs delightful, locally sourced menus for any palate. It’s a place to embrace rest and revel in the bucolic beauty of Wiltshire.
Boreham Road, Warminster BA12 9HH 0198 580 4680
“With a multi-million, state-of-the-art spa, this Elizabethan manor house near Plymouth in west Devon offers pampering-a-plenty in a perfectly preserved historic setting. The food, service and facilities are first-class, and it’s excellent value for money. The ‘secret’ cocktail bar and brasserie are excellent additions.” The Telegraph
Interesting Fact: Boringdon Hall was once a private residence to Lady Jane Grey.
Local inspiration: The Dartmoor National Park; hundreds of square miles of stunning landscape, rivers, and diverse wildlife.
Don’t forget: To allow time for a fascinating guided hotel tour.
Closest airport: Exeter
Closest rail station: Plymouth
Wake to the glorious sounds and sights of the Devonshire countryside at Boringdon Hall, truly an “enchanted place on the hill” where stresses and strains simply melt away. This beautiful hotel, brimming with stories, invites you to discover its many charming nooks and crannies.
Prepare for an exceptional culinary journey at the MICHELIN-starred restaurant Àclèaf, led by the talented Head Chef Scott Paton. Then, surrender to blissful relaxation at the award-winning Gaia Spa, offering nourishing GAIA treatments, invigorating indoor and hydrotherapy pools, and five distinct heat experiences. When it’s time to rest your head, choose from a range of inviting rooms, from luxurious wellness suites to grand four-poster dwellings, each complete with elegant period furnishings. It’s an awfully indulgent escape, ravishingly refined.
Plympton, Plymouth, Devon, PL7 4DP
01752 344 455
Michelin Star for Àclèaf Restaurant
“Baronial Bovey has low-key luxury nailed. Muddy boots are welcome in this stately pile which boasts stone fireplaces, mullioned windows, elegant staircases and plush bedrooms. The hotel restaurant is a capacious art deco affair.” The Observer Magazine
Interesting Fact: Bovey Castle was originally built for the Hon. W.H. Smith.
Local inspiration: Becky Falls is a beautiful place brimming with ancient forestry.
Don’t forget: Your walking boots! With 275 acres to explore in this magnificent estate.
Closest airport: Exeter
Closest rail station: Exeter
Nestled deep within the rolling valleys of Dartmoor National Park, Bovey Castle is a truly timeless hotel, spa, and golf course with unrivalled views of the national park.
Indulge your palate at the 3 AA Rosette awarded Great Western Grill or the more relaxed Smith’s Brasserie. For the adventurous, there’s a myriad of activities, from archery, air rifles and thrilling 4WD off-road driving to complimentary falconry displays on the south terrace. Take a leisurely journey into the deer park, where glades, meadows, and woodland trails are home to over 175 fallow deer. Indoors, enjoy a splash in the Art Deco style family pool. Run a hand along the rich wood-panelled walls and let your imagination conjure the centuries of stories this magnificent castle has witnessed. From its period print wall coverings to its vaulted ceilings, intricate stonemasonry, and palatial fireplaces.
North Bovey, Dartmoor National Park, Devon, TQ13 8RE
0164 744 5000
J“A stylish country-house hotel near Bath, decorated throughout with playful and eyecatching art and features. The best bedrooms have private hot tubs on outdoor terraces, the first-rate food champions home-grown and local produce, and the well-equipped spa has an outdoor swimming pool heated year round.” The Telegraph
Interesting Fact: Homewood’s main house dates back to the 18th century, originally built as a grand private residence.
Local inspiration: The quaint local village of Freshford for classic British countryside.
Don’t forget: Your swimming costume for the spa – you won’t want to miss a dip!
Closest airport: Bristol
Closest rail station: Bath Spa
ust outside the city of Bath, hidden in the rolling hills of Somerset, Homewood beckons as an idyllic haven for ultimate relaxation and indulgence. This is a place where playfulness meets refinement, offering a wonderfully individual escape. Lose yourself in the serene spa experience, where you can bask in breathtaking countryside views from the hot tub or unwind in the heated outdoor and hydrotherapy pools.
Choose from elegantly designed rooms and suites in the main house, or retreat to the charming Mallingford Mews, some boasting private hot tubs and invigorating ice plunge baths. Indulge in a journey of culinary delights at the Mediterraneaninspired OLIO Restaurant, step out onto the terrace, or find yourself enchanted by La Taberna’s feasting-over-fire experience on the lawns. From dog concierges to dog grooming, dog agility and doggy dining menus, waggy tails are very welcome here too!
Abbey Lane, Freshford, Bath, Somerset, BA2 7TB 0122 558 0439
“To stay at The Headland Hotel is to be trapped between two glorious ages. The early twentieth century and the twenty-first century (think Downton Abbey with Wi-Fi), the hotel being both modern and timeless.” Cornwall Life
Prepare to be utterly captivated by The Headland Cornwall, where stunning architecture, a multi-awardwinning spa, and the exquisite AquaClub converge, all with unparalleled views of the mighty Atlantic Ocean.
Perched majestically on the headland overlooking Fistral Bay, this Victorian marvel is widely considered one of Cornwall’s most renowned hotels. If being close to the sea is good for the soul, then a stay here is truly life-affirming. This five-star establishment exudes grandeur, yet remains a genuinely friendly, family-run affair in a simply world-class location. Experience the soothing spa, where relaxation is an art form, or head to the AquaClub to float blissfully in one of the six magnificent pools, perhaps with a devilishly good meal to follow. With a wide, sandy beach and hidden coves just beneath, the call of the ocean is never far away. It’s the perfect spot for watching golden sunsets as the sun sinks into the horizon.
Interesting Fact: The Headland Cornwall famously served as the primary filming location for the 1990s film The Witches.
Local inspiration: Little Fistral Beach, a delightful hidden secret.
Don’t forget: Your swimwear! It’s time for the sea, sun, and sand.
Closest airport: Newquay
Closest rail station: Newquay
Fistral Beach, Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 1EW 0163 787 2211
“Guests are enveloped in kindness, and their grandchildren, children and dogs are all equally welcome.” The Sunday Telegraph
Palm trees fringe traditional interiors and handpicked antiques tell their own stories at The Nare; a hotel where authentic Cornish charm delightfully meets subtropical beauty, all while offering uninterrupted views of Carne Beach and the breathtaking Cornwall Coast.
A cherished family-owned hotel for over 30 years, The Nare is an English country house tucked away in a secluded, wonderfully unhurried corner of South Cornwall. It’s elegantly comfortable, a place of roaring fires and exquisite British cuisine, all served with captivating vistas of Gerrans Bay and the Roseland Peninsula. Explore hidden coves along the Fal and Helford rivers in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty aboard the Alice Rose, the hotel’s traditional ‘gentleman’s motor launch,’ swim lengths in the outdoor pool, or simply claim the quiet beach as your very own.
Interesting Fact: The Nare Hotel famously offers complimentary cream teas to all guests every afternoon.
Local inspiration: Pendower Beach and Carne Beach.
Don’t forget: Your four-legged friends –they’ll fall utterly in love with Carne Beach.
Closest airport: Newquay
Closest rail station: Truro
Carne Beach, Veryan, Truro, Cornwall, TR2 5PF 0187 250 1111
“The Priory’s location is superb and guests sip Champagne on a sun-soaked lawn during the afternoon.” Telegraph Online
Interesting Fact: The Priory’s serene grounds were once home to a Benedictine priory, dating back to the 8th century.
Local inspiration: Studland Bay, Brownsea Island, Sandbanks and Poole Harbour.
Don’t forget: Your paddleboard or kayak for a delightful trip down the River Frome.
Closest airport: Southampton
Closest rail station: Wareham
Set on the banks of the River Frome in Wareham, The Priory is a special Grade-II-listed hotel, brimming with history, quirk, and charm in every inglenook and corner. You could easily spend your entire visit exploring the building’s fascinating past and its four acres of glorious English cottage gardens; many do, making a return trip to truly savour its exceptional location.
Exquisitely designed rooms blend antique furnishings with 20th-century pieces, creating a delightfully different vibe. This eccentrically elegant style continues into the Cloisters Bar, where you’ll discover expertly handcrafted cocktails. Once a monastery
The Priory remains a haven of peace and tranquillity –though now with decidedly better food and spectacularly comfortable beds. It’s a place to unwind, explore, and simply let the timeless riverside setting work its magic.
Church Green, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 4ND 0192 955 1666
“The hotel’s reception of flagstones and fireplaces is an instant invitation to begin to unwind and take on the slower pace of a country-style weekend, albeit with the diversions of a city on the doorstep.” FT.com
Interesting Fact: The Royal Crescent was designed by architect John Wood the Younger and completed in 1775.
Local inspiration: The Palladian Bridge in Prior Park.
Don’t forget: Your swimwear for the spa.
Closest airport: Bristol
Closest rail station: Bath Spa
You’ll find the award-winning The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa nestled amongst the glorious listed buildings of Bath’s most celebrated, sweeping Georgian street of the same name. This magnificent hotel occupies two central townhouses of Bath’s architectural masterpiece, a gem at the heart of the crescent. From its neoclassic architecture to the genuinely warm service, the heritage of this magnificent hotel is wonderfully evident.
Admire the curve, the striking uniformity, the grand columns. Stop and admire the floor-to-ceiling views, or allow the healing power of nature to embrace you in the tranquil haven of the glorious one-acre gardens. Savour the delicious flavours of the relaxed dining menu and exquisite tasting menus at Montagu’s Mews restaurant, bar and terrace. While away an afternoon beside the drawing room fire, letting your worries dissolve in the serene spa.
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Compostable enveloped teabags
Packed
Visit for: Family traditions | Style: Art-deco elegance
“The food in the evening in the stylish restaurant was exquisite, as was breakfast; everything from smashed avocado to smoked salmon and, of course, a full English.” Little London
Interesting Fact: A delightfully rare find, Thurlestone Hotel has been lovingly owned and run by the Grose family for over 130 years and five generations.
Local inspiration: Thurlestone Golf Club, and the 16th-century The Village Inn pub,
Don’t forget: A good book to read while relaxing in the gardens or on the balconies.
Closest airport: Exeter
Closest rail station: Totnes
From its sun-drenched terraces overlooking the sea to its exceptional fine-dining restaurant and peaceful spa, Thurlestone Hotel offers a truly luxurious escape. This is a place where authentic charm meets an Art-Deco elegance, an ambience that simply can’t be manufactured, all lovingly cultivated by the Grose family for over 130 years. Their hospitality, as you’ll quickly discover, is second to none.
Set within captivating semi-tropical gardens, the hotel commands magnificent, ever-changing views of the wild South Devon coastline. Its proximity to the sea and its heritage status within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty makes it ideal for both jolly family getaways and intimate romantic escapes. Thurlestone effortlessly caters to special occasions and social gatherings, its reputation as a distinguished hotel in Devon has been thoroughly well-earned.
Thurlestone Hotel, Thurlestone, near Salcombe, Devon, TQ7 3NN 0154 856 0382
Our hotels in the charming villages
Step back in time and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life
154 Calcot & Spa
155 Ellenborough Park Hotel & Spa
156 The Painswick
157 Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa
Stow on the Wold
Bourton-onthe-Water
The Cotswolds — a place so quintessentially British it feels plucked from a storybook. It’s a landscape of gentle, rolling hills, ancient drystone walls, and honey-coloured villages that glow in the afternoon sun. While it’s often seen as a place to step back in time, we prefer to think of it as a place where time simply becomes a little less important.
This is a region that wears its history with an easy elegance. From the bustling market towns to the quiet, hidden hamlets, every corner feels like a secret well-shared. It’s a place for long walks that end in a deliciously distinctive pub lunch, for browsing
independent boutiques, and for simply breathing in air so fresh it feels like a treat. This isn’t just rural England; it’s rural England perfected.
Our four PoB Hotels found in hidden corners of The Cotswolds, are as charmingly unique as the landscape itself. They are a celebration of Cotswold life, from a 15th-century manor that offers a tranquil spa escape, to a grand house set on 90 acres of parkland with a direct link to the famous Cheltenham Racecourse and a rich equestrian heritage. Each property presents a delicately decadent twist on the usual, inviting you to unwind and savour the quiet moments.
Where to make your best memories in The Cotswolds
Blenheim Palace
Broadway Tower
Cheltenham Racecourse
Lacock Abbey
Westonbirt Arboretum
“This hotel pulls out all the stops to let families in on the fun. Adults-only time is possible thanks to a brilliant kids’ club where four hours’ childcare a day are included, so you can hop to the spa or bar. Play tennis, work out or swim in the two pools, then borrow bikes to explore the rewilded grounds.” The Sunday Times’ 100 Best Places to Stay in 2023
Interesting Fact: Calcot & Spa was once a 14th-century tithe barn, used to store crops paid as tax to the local church.
Local inspiration: Tetbury.
Don’t forget: Your boots! They’re essential for exploring the nature trail and 240 acres of rewilded meadowland.
Closest airport: Bristol
Closest rail station: Kemble
Located in the heart of the Cotswolds, amidst acres of beautiful meadowland, Calcot & Spa is a characterful hotel with an award-winning spa that genuinely understands contemporary country living. Step through the stone-arched doorway, and you’ll find impeccably designed spaces – think pale wood, esteemed Scandi design, exposed stonework, heavy linen, and warm, inviting tones.
It’s wonderfully easy to maintain your wellness routine here, with a state-of-the-art gym and holistic studios flooded with natural light for mindful classes. Hit the Grain Store studio for a workout or spin up a storm in the dedicated Spin Shed, before retiring to your bedroom, perhaps for some well-deserved room service. Indulge in delicious dining experiences at either The Brasserie or the stylish café lounge, The Hive. Hit that internal ‘out of office’ button; it’s time to relax – in impeccable style, of course.
Near Tetbury, Gloucestershire, GL8 8YJ 0166 689 0391
Visit for: Race day radiance | Style: Country chic, amplified
“Caught between the Cotswolds’ highest point and the lush green gallops of Cheltenham’s racecourse, the luxury five-star hotel is steeped in history and offers 90 acres of rustic countryside.” Lawyer Monthly
Immersed in rich history and set within 90 acres of glorious grounds, Ellenborough Park is a magnificent British manor house, lovingly restored to its original splendour. With the impossibly charming Cotswolds as its stage, this is the place to live out your fantasies of grandeur. Built from classic honey-toned Cotswold stone that radiates in the light, these magnificent surroundings offer a delightful escape from reality, where every corner reveals a story waiting to be discovered.
Tucked deep in one of the largest Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the house stands as a truly grand retreat. Built in the 15th century, many of its captivating period features remain, whispering tales of centuries past. With the world-famous Cheltenham Racecourse on its doorstep, Ellenborough Park also boasts front-row seats to the renowned setting for horse racing.
Interesting Fact: Ellenborough Park’s oldest part, the Great Hall, dates back to 1485 and once hosted King George III.
Local inspiration: Cheltenham Racecourse, but the finishing touch? A private track leading directly from the hotel.
Don’t forget: Your swimming costume for the heated outdoor pool.
Closest airport: Birmingham
Closest rail station: Cheltenham Spa
Southam Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL52 3NJ 0124 254 5454
“A glorious combination of eclecticism, heavenly food and creature comforts, all set in one of the Cotswolds’ prettiest towns, this picture-perfect Palladian house was renovated and relaunched by owner, The Calcot Collection, in spring 2016, and has been transformed into a relaxing, chic haven with ace cuisine and fabulous views over the Slad valley.” Country & Town House
Interesting Fact: The Painswick was originally built as a grand merchant’s house in 1782.
Local inspiration: Rococo Garden, the UK’s only surviving complete rococo garden.
Don’t forget: To visit the nearby vineyards of Woodchester Valley and Three Choirs.
Closest airport: Bristol
Closest rail station: Stroud
Found amid the winding lanes of Painswick village, right in the heart of the Cotswolds, The Painswick is a beautiful townhouse with an unmistakable charm.
Here, an unforgettable culinary experience awaits at Sauce, the hotel’s restaurant. It offers a delightfully decadent à la carte selection, feasting boards, and a truly indulgent afternoon tea.
Choose to stay in the elegant 18th-century hotel itself, or opt for the adjacent farmhouse-style three-bedroom holiday cottage – perfect for a private escape. The hotel’s lounges, garden terrace, and balcony offer the perfect spots to relax, unwind. And do bring your four-legged friends; together, you can enjoy the Cotswold Way and many other fabulously beautiful walks just a stone’s throw from the hotel. Take a scenic hike to Painswick Beacon, and wander through the charming village
Kemps Lane, Painswick, Gloucestershire, GL6 6YB 01452 813688
Visit for: Responsibly splendid luxury | Style: Refined Cotswold manor house
“Relax in the spa or spend long evenings sunken into a sofa in front of the crackling log fire - either way, rouse yourself to sample dinner at the Michelin-starred restaurant.” Independent.co.uk
Interesting Fact: Whatley Manor’s Head Gardener, Michael, has an RHS Associate of Honour award.
Local inspiration: Westonbirt Arboretum, home to 2,500 different species.
Don’t forget: To connect with ‘The Hive’ during your stay; an epic bee mural.
Closest airport: Bristol
Closest rail station: Kemble
Sitting proudly in 12 acres of pristine Cotswold countryside and lovingly restored gardens, Whatley Manor is the perfect picture of quintessential English design. It’s effortlessly elegant and prestigious, a masterclass in refined hospitality.
Delving deeper, you’ll discover a firm commitment to 21stcentury values, underscored by an official Silver EarthCheck accreditation, emphasising environmental sustainability. This isn’t just luxury; it’s conscious comfort. Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa places a great emphasis on culinary excellence, and guests can opt for The Dining Room, boasting a prestigious Michelin star and offering flavour fanfares, or unwind in the sophisticated ambiance of Grey’s for something deliciously distinctive. Whatley Manor even boasts its own on-site borehole, providing fresh, natural spring water throughout the property. Talk about locally sourced refreshment!
Easton Grey, Malmesbury, Wiltshire, SN16 0RB 0166 682 2888
Michelin Star for The Dining Room
The Channel Islands are a uniquely British and yet deliciously different world, a place where French influence lingers in the names of the streets and the warmth of the climate. These islands feel like a secret archipelago, a tranquil paradise just a ferry ride from the mainland. It’s a place of charming comfort and serene retreats, where the rhythm of life is set by the tides.
From the rugged cliffs of Jersey to the secluded coves of Guernsey, the islands are a masterclass in contrasts. There are sun-drenched beaches for the summer, coastal walks for crisp winter days, and a
rich history of WWII bunkers and medieval castles that tell stories of a defiant past. This is a land of timeless travels, where you can spend your day discovering hidden bays, indulging in outrageously fresh seafood, or simply doing nothing at all.
Our PoB Hotel in Jersey is the perfect gateway to this idyllic island life. A curiously curated haven where impeccably independent spirit meets coastal luxury. It’s a sanctuary for magical moments — It’s your invitation to a truly authentic island-hopping adventure and a taste of flavour fanfares that are as fresh as they are unforgettable.
Where to make your best memories in the Channel Islands
There’s something to suit everyone.
“The Atlantic now speaks… of Art Deco and ocean liners, with sophisticated all white reception rooms that are stylish, yet timeless, complemented by beautifully mannered staff who provide the traditional element in a hotel that stays fresh, but refuses to follow fashion.” The Telegraph
Interesting Fact: The Atlantic Hotel’s distinctive façade was inspired by the ocean liners of the golden age of travel.
Local inspiration: Arguably one of Jersey’s most beautiful beaches, Plémont Bay.
Don’t forget: Your walking boots! The coastal paths and country lanes of Jersey are just begging to be explored.
Closest airport: Jersey
Explore the beautiful island of Jersey in the Channel Islands from The Atlantic Hotel; offering an island escape quite unlike any other. Here, indulgent rooms, incredible ocean views, and award-winning dining perfectly combine to create a truly special experience.
In longstanding family ownership and recently celebrating its remarkable 50th anniversary, this world-class hotel offers a corner of paradise set within extensive grounds adjoining La Moye golf course.
From its vantage point, the hotel commands sweeping, dramatic views that unfurl across St Ouen’s Bay, a conservation area revered for its untamed, outstanding natural beauty.The unique blend of timeless elegance and a wonderfully secluded location makes this one of Jersey’s finest hotels - the perfect Channel Islands hideaway on an island rich in culture, heritage, and natural beauty.
Le Mont de la Pulente, St Brelade, Jersey, JE3 8HE 0153 474 4101
Central England is the UK’s quiet heart, a captivating mix of history and heritage that doesn’t feel the need to shout about its charms. It’s a land of rolling patchwork fields, ancient forests, and bustling market towns that have been thriving for centuries. While others look to the coasts, we think the truly blissful British moments are to be found right here, in the middle of it all.
This is a region of understated elegance and unexpected whimsical elements. From the academic spires of Oxford to the industrial legacy of the Midlands, Central England is a story of
tradition and innovation. It’s a region where you can lose yourself in the grandeur of a stately home, catch a captivating performance under the stars, or simply find a quiet corner of the countryside for a moment of reflection.
Discover our four PoB Hotels in Central England, where you can experience everything from ravishingly refined luxury overlooking tranquil waters to devilishly good theatrical magic. Our properties combine classic English charm with a playful twist, inviting you to discover the simple, authentic pleasures of a region that is both the past and the present, all at once.
Where to make your best memories in Central England
“You’ll find roaring fires, huge armchairs and wood panelling - and the restaurant has the longest-retained Michelin Star in the UK.” National Geographic Traveller UK
Perched rather grandly on its own peninsula at Rutland Water, Hambleton Hall is a quintessential country house renowned for three things: its elegantly appointed bedrooms, exquisite Michelin-starred cuisine, and a truly heartwarming brand of British hospitality. It’s a place where discerning taste meets delightful charm. Lovingly curated antiques blend seamlessly with opulent furnishings, creating an elegant, wonderfully comfortable bolthole just two and a half hours from London. The southfacing gardens and charming parterre provide year-round pleasure; wander down and enjoy the sight of geese, ducks, kingfishers, and, if luck is on your side, even a majestic osprey. Indoors, the house is kept wonderfully warm by crackling open fires throughout the winter months. A very special stay, indeed, awaits.
Interesting Fact: Hambleton Hall was originally built as a hunting lodge in 1881 for a wealthy merchant.
Local inspiration: Hambleton Bakery Café and Shop at Exton.
Don’t forget: Binoculars for bird-watching at Rutland Water nature reserve.
Closest airport: East Midlands
Closest rail station: Oakham
Hambleton, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8TH 0157 275 6991 Michelin Star
“Kilworth House is a total delight, perhaps the best-kept secret in British theatre. The hotel, a Grade II-listed 19th-century country house, looks fit for visiting royalty. The theatre, tucked away in a secluded area of woodland, is a stylish triumph.” The Daily Telegraph
Interesting Fact: Kilworth House is renowned as the only hotel to have its very own outdoor theatre. Encore!
Local inspiration: Stratford-upon-Avon; with over 800 years of history to discover.
Don’t forget: To book a theatre show when you visit.
Closest airport: East Midlands
Closest rail station: Market Harborough
This Victorian manor is absolutely teeming with timeless elegance, yet step outside, and you’ll find things are wonderfully more relaxed. Kilworth House Hotel, a Grade-II-listed former family home, is no ordinary destination. Here, historic grandeur meets contemporary ideals of luxury, creating a rare and opulent yet wonderfully relaxed design.
Expect exquisite bedrooms and stunning restaurants, all wrapped within this period house’s captivating charm. Kilworth House Hotel’s magnificent staircase and much of its interior were meticulously crafted by Italian artisans, brought over specifically for the task when the house was built in the 1880s. Under an hour from the hotel is Stratford-upon-Avon, a historic market town synonymous with William Shakespeare, boasting many buildings that would have been familiar to Shakespeare.
North Kilworth, Leicestershire, LE17 6JE 0185 888 0058
“I’m already itching to revisit Mallory Court thanks to how welcoming the staff was, how delicious the food was and how comfortable the rooms were.” Daily Express
Interesting Fact: Mallory Court boasts a full working kitchen garden, providing much of the inspiration and produce.
Local inspiration: Warwick Castle, Compton Verney and Stratford-upon-Avon.
Don’t forget: Your swimsuit – ready for a blissful dip in the outdoor vitality pool.
Closest airport: Birmingham
Closest rail station: Leamington Spa
Gracefully located on the edge of the Cotswolds, Mallory Court is a delightful country house offering a tranquil escape, where refined comfort meets outstanding, award-winning dining.
Guests seeking pampering will delight in the deep castiron baths, refurbished bedrooms, each with their own individual character, featuring designer floral and geometric wallpapers and fabrics from Romo and GP &J Baker among others, and sumptuous king-sized beds. Beyond the cosy bedrooms, the experience extends to The Dining Room and Sencha, where a full working kitchen garden inspires menus brimming with fresh, seasonal delights – indeed, garden tours and self-guided mindfulness walks are an invitation to connect with this verdant heart. The serene Elan Spa, with its outdoor vitality pool and comprehensive thermal suite, beckons for blissful repose.
Harbury Lane, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, CV33 9QB
01926 330 214
“A grand Grade II listed Queen Anne country house with plenty of character but very little pretension, this warm, welcoming hotel is surrounded by Worcestershire’s beautiful yet often underrated countryside.” The Telegraph
Small but mighty, stylish but never stuffy, homely yet full of the unexpected. Welcome to The Elms Hotel & Spa, a boutique manor escape nestled in the picturesque Worcestershire countryside. Here, charm and indulgence await in individually designed bedrooms, complemented by an award-winning dining experience.
But the true star? The Greenhouse Spa. Truly living up to its name, this botanical-themed oasis is perfect for relaxing poolside, indulging in a treatment, and unapologetically prioritising yourself. It’s a haven of tropical swimming, serene botanical lounge areas, and hydrotherapy designed to calm both mind and body in perfect harmony with nature. Just a 10-minute drive from The Elms, you’ll discover Shelsley Walsh, the oldest motorsports venue in the world still to run events on its original course.
Interesting Fact: The Elms Hotel & Spa was originally built as a Queen Anne-style country house in the early 18th century.
Local inspiration: Shelsley Walsh’s classic car tours, and driving schools.
Don’t forget: Comfortable shoes for the glorious walks through the countryside.
Closest airport: Birmingham
Closest rail station: Worcester
Stockton Road, Abberley, Worcestershire, WR6 6AT 01299 896 666
170 Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa
171 Farlam Hall Hotel & Restaurant
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177 Seaham Hall & Serenity Spa
178 Yorebridge House
The North of England is a land of raw, untamed beauty and a spirit that’s as grand as its landscapes. This is where Britain’s spine, the Pennines, carves out a dramatic story of moors and dales, and where a coastline as rugged as it is beautiful meets the wild sea. It’s a place that invites you to pull on your boots and get lost in the great outdoors, only to find yourself again in a cosy pub with a roaring fire. This is a region of bold contrasts. From the blissfully British charm of the Lake District to the vibrant, beating heart of its cities, the North tells a story
of both natural splendour and pioneering spirit.
Our nine PoB Hotels here embody this very essence, each a testament to the North’s enduring character. From serene lakeside escapes to a luxuriously polished hotel with a championship golf course and spa, you can find a pampering spa retreat offering complete tranquillity, a country house with deliciously distinctive dining, or a charming manor with a fascinating history. These properties are impeccably independent havens for those who seek not just a place to stay, but a story worth packing for.
Where to make your best memories in the North
York Minster
“A stunning 17th-century country house overlooking Bassenthwaite Lake and surrounded by all the amenities an outdoorsman could hope for and has become an elegant luxury hotel, complete with a 16-metre infinity pool.” Country Life
Interesting Fact: Armathwaite Hall is one of only a handful of hotels in the UK to have its very own wildlife park.
Local inspiration: Sale Fell offers a scenic walk with views of Bassenthwaite Lake.
Don’t forget: Your walking boots for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Closest airport: Newcastle
Closest rail station: Carlisle
Within 400 acres of woodland, Armathwaite Hall is nestled, a place where period grandeur and contemporary flair dance in perfect harmony. This remarkable hotel is as captivating as the Lake District countryside it calls home. Step inside the elegantly styled house to experience Cumbrian hospitality at its finest, a seamless blend of classic grace and modern refinement. This venerable property has been a prominent stately home for centuries, its walls whispering tales of a rich past.
Unwind in the inviting cocktail bar, surrender to serene bliss in the spa, or delve into the hotel’s 17th-century origins. For a truly unique encounter, visit the lemurs, meerkats, and alpacas at the conservation-focused Lake District Wildlife Park, conveniently located on the grounds. It’s an utterly charming escape.
Bassenthwaite Lake, Keswick, Lake District, Cumbria, CA12 4RE 017687 76551
Visit for: Pure distinction | Style: Effortless grace
“If hospitality is about creating spaces where people feel deeply valued, well fed and truly at peace, then Farlam Hall – and HRISHI’s Table in particular – has perfected the art.” FOUR Magazine
Interesting Fact: Farlam Hall proudly cultivates much of its own produce in a dedicated on-site kitchen garden.
Local inspiration: Hadrian’s Wall; it stretches over 73 miles.
Don’t forget: Your walking boots to explore the Lakes.
Closest airport: Newcastle
Closest rail station: Carlisle
Set in the beautiful Cumbrian countryside, Farlam Hall is a luxurious country house hotel that’s all about relaxing and truly appreciating your surroundings. Sink into an elegant bedroom, unwind in cosy lounges, and immerse yourself in the stunning views of the sprawling grounds.
Indulge in fine dining at the opulent Cedar Tree Restaurant by Hrishikesh Desai, the vibrant Bistro Enkel, or during an ultimate Chef’s Table experience. Dishes are meticulously crafted by the award-winning team, using the freshest ingredients from the on-site kitchen garden. Expect exceptional food, remarkable wines, impeccable hospitality, and truly personalised service. It’s a perfectly pampered escape. Step back in time and witness the grandeur of Hadrian’s Wall and breathtaking views of the rolling hills and countryside firsthand, just three miles to the north of Farlam Hall.
Hallbankgate, Brampton, Cumbria, CA8 2NG 0169 774 6234
Michelin Star for the Cedar Tree by Hrishikesh Desai
Visit for: Ultimate relaxation | Style: Modern luxury
“The epitome of a modern country-house hotel pimped up with a dash of bling. Firmly in the indulgent break category with private hot-tubs and saunas, Michelin-starred dining and legions of staff.” Telegraph Online
Interesting Fact: The Cunliffe family has welcomed guests to this very spot for over a century, originally as a private home.
Local inspiration: Hill Top, the delightful 17th-century home of Beatrix Potter.
Don’t forget: Your walking boots for getting exploring the glorious Lakes.
Closest airport: Manchester
Closest rail station: Oxenholme
This is one exceptional hotel in the Lake District, but in two unique locations, each with its own compelling character. For creative culinary journeys – a choice of a Michelinstarred experience or relaxed Pan-Asian fare – and private spa lodges and suites boasting their own hydrotherapy hot tub, sauna, and steam room, try Gilpin Hotel.
For country elegance with uninterrupted – and wonderfully private – lake views and spa trails winding through the woods, as well as a thoughtful chauffeur service to dinner, then Gilpin Lake House is the one.
If luxury without pretentiousness, alongside uninterrupted peace and tranquillity, sounds like your sort of escape, then you absolutely need to know more about the Gilpin. Expect genuinely friendly service and a delightful knack for surprising and pleasing at every turn. This is modern hospitality at its very best.
Crook Road, Windermere, The Lake District, Cumbria 0153 948 8818
Michelin Star for SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel
Visit for: Elegant & glamorous history | Style: Classical & contemporary
“Britain’s best wine hotel will appeal to less ‘mature’, millennial plonk drinkers as well as more ‘vintage’ oenophiles. Don’t miss the tasting menu with paired wines.” Telegraph Online
One of the Yorkshire Dales’ hidden gems, Grantley Hall is a country house hotel and wellness retreat where rich history and elegance are woven into every exquisite detail. If these wood-panelled walls could talk, they’d tell tales ranging from the royal and famous who’ve visited to the war effort with Dame Vera Lynn singing to the troops. Yet, this is no mere museum. Classical elegance sits as comfortably alongside contemporary luxury as the plush velvet stools do to the rich oak bar, creating an atmosphere that is both grand and inviting.
Today, the tales would be of guests in a deep sense of bliss following a day at the Three Graces Spa, strolling through the meticulously manicured grounds, or simply taking in the opulent yet wonderfully welcoming interiors, perhaps with a quiet drink. Every guest feels perfectly pampered from arrival to departure.
Interesting Fact: Grantley Hall, as a convalescent home, hosted Dame Vera Lynn’s performances for troops.
Local inspiration: Ancient abbey ruins, an awe-inspiring water garden.
Don’t forget: Your swimsuit to experience the Nordic Spa Garden.
Closest airport: Leeds Bradford
Closest rail station: Harrogate
Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3ET 0176 562 0070
Michelin Star for Shaun Rankin
“This Gothic mansion close to Hadrian’s Wall combines modern luxury, grand bedrooms, fine dining, golf on the grounds, a spa and afternoon tea. It all combines to create a relaxing country retreat.” The Telegraph
Nestled in the heart of Northumberland, Matfen Hall is a magnificent Gothic mansion where heritage meets contemporary panache. Its grand architecture hints at an opulent past, now seamlessly woven with contemporary comforts and an extensive array of offerings. From the sprawling 27-hole championship golf course to the indulgent spa with its impressive 15-metre glazed pool and comprehensive thermal suite, designed for supreme relaxation and recreation. Not to mention the many bespoke experiences within its captivating walls.
Inside, discover several original crackling fireplaces, fuelled by kiln dried logs from the estate, fine dining across multiple restaurants, including The Emerald and Cloisters, and grand bedrooms with high ceilings and original ornate cornicing, antique Victorian wardrobes, roll-top baths and underfloor heating.
Interesting Fact: Matfen Hall powers its luxurious experience with a dedicated biomass plant, fuelled by wood shavings.
Local inspiration: Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Don’t forget: Your swimsuit for a dip in the magnificent 15-metre glazed pool.
Closest airport: Newcastle
Closest rail station: Newcastle
Matfen Village, Newcastle Upon Tyne, Northumberland, NE20 0RH
0166 188 6500
Visit for: Race day perfection | Style: Wren-inspired grandeur
“Our stay was absolutely lovely. I loved everything about it: the vibe, the decor, the restaurant and the staff.” Independent Online
This historic, 325-year-old red brick and limestone house, reputedly influenced by Sir Christopher Wren, is set within acres of private gardens and parkland, all delightfully within the City of York. Built in 1699, it was once the home of the famous diarist, Lady Mary Wortley Montagu and being next to York Racecourse, it’s quite simply the place to be on race days.
Enjoy a refined drink in a fine drawing room, savour a delectable meal in the panelled dining room, then take a leisurely stroll through the varied and productive gardens. The many attractions of York are just a mile away, with its iconic City Walls, the fascinating Railway Museum, and the elegantly restored 18th-century Fairfax House, boasting an exquisite furniture collection and magnificent plasterwork. It’s a truly quintessentially British stay with charming comfort and an air of refined sophistication.
Interesting Fact: Middlethorpe Hall once served as a girls’ boarding school.
Local inspiration: Fairfax House with its rich interiors and magnificent stucco ceilings.
Don’t forget: To experience the beauty of York Minster’s evensong, with the heavenly sounds of the choir.
Closest airport: Leeds Bradford
Closest rail station: York
Bishopthorpe Road, York, North Yorkshire, YO23 2GB 01904 641241
“Northcote enfolds you in thick-seamed luxury, refining local produce into Michelin-starred cuisine and creating bedrooms in line with noble traditions. It is class rooted in the fields, the moors and the fells of Bowland.” The Daily Telegraph
Interesting Fact: Northcote’s Obsession is the UK’s leading gastronomic food festival, featuring 17 nights of Michelin star chefs from across the world.
Local inspiration: Stonyhurst Museum, dating back to 1609.
Don’t forget: An unshakeable appetite –you’ll most certainly need it here!
Closest airport: Manchester
Closest rail station: Langho
Boldly designed bedrooms, moreish menus, and authentic Northern charm await you at Northcote – a luxury hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant under the exceptional helm of Chef Patron-Director Lisa GoodwinAllen. Food – talking about it, appreciating it, and of course, utterly devouring it – is undoubtedly the star of the show here (if you’ll pardon the pun) for any stay. From the first bite to the last, every dish is a meticulously crafted masterpiece, reflecting a profound passion for exquisite flavours and the finest seasonal ingredients.
If you can tear your eyes from your plate, you will note an interior that’s designed with luxury in mind, in a British style that perfectly complements the innovative cuisine. Aside from the beautifully tiled fire, a visit to the wonderfully stocked bar should be high on the agenda for a pre-dinner aperitif or a perfectly crafted nightcap.
Northcote Road, Langho, The Ribble Valley, Lancashire, BB6 8BE 0125 424 0555
Michelin Star
Visit for: Your connection with the ocean | Style: Contemporary Georgian sanctuary
“Not surprisingly, it’s tempting to remain cocooned in Seaham Hall’s dreamy bubble for the duration of your stay but on the hotel’s doorstep is Durham Heritage Coast.” The Times
Located on a striking clifftop on the Durham Coast, Seaham Hall is a classic Georgian country house and spa with an intriguing hint of contemporary style dotted throughout. A destination known locally as one of the greats, it effortlessly and seamlessly mixes timeless elegance with modern ideals of luxury.
Walk through the grand Georgian pillars and imposing doors, and you instantly know you’ve arrived somewhere truly remarkable: 37 acres of meticulously landscaped gardens and a world-class spa, all framed by views of the crashing North Sea. Inside, discover an individual, opulent interior that is flamboyant often, wonderfully welcoming always. This is a place for serene retreats and ravishing rituals, offering a truly distinctive coastal escape. Take a bracing stroll along Seaham Beach, just a 10-minute walk away, or head further out and explore the bustling Seaham Marina.
Interesting Fact: Seaham Hall was once the chosen wedding venue for Lord Byron and Annabella Milbanke in 1815.
Local inspiration: High Force waterfall and the nearby Hamsterley Forest.
Don’t forget: A discerning taste for indulgence.
Closest airport: Newcastle
Closest rail station: Durham
Lord Byron’s Walk, Seham, Durham, SR7 7AG 0191 516 1400
“A chic, award-winning boutique hotel set in six acres of private grounds in some of the Yorkshire Dales’ most beautiful scenery. The Grade-II listed house has been meticulously restored from its Victorian origins.” Telegraph Online
Interesting Fact: Yorebridge House’s Nishiki room was voted ‘Sexiest Hotel Room’ in the Mills & Boon Romance Awards.
Local inspiration: Mill Gill, a hidden waterfall in the stunning Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Don’t forget: Your sunhat for relaxing on the lawn – pure, unadulterated peace.
Closest airport: Teesside
Closest rail station: Garsdale
Set in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, this boutique hotel is where the dinner menus are as unique as its location, and the rooms are elegantly designed yet full of personality. It’s informal yet elegant, relaxed yet professional to the letter, timeless yet wonderfully contemporary.
These differing feats are no easy balance; they take skill and dedication, which is a true testament to this unique, modern boutique hotel.
There’s a refreshingly fresh approach to hospitality here, which you’ll get the measure of the moment you cross the threshold. It’s unpretentious and stylish, down-to-earth yet aspirational. Expect crisp linen, spectacular views, individually styled rooms some with private outdoor hot tubs, an outrageously comfortable welcome, and an experience that feels like a secret well-shared.
Askrigg Road, Bainbridge, Leyburn, North Yorkshire, DL8 3EE 01969 652 060
Our hotels in the Scottish Highlands
Escape to an enticing wilderness, where every moment is a breath of fresh air
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Ullapool
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190 The Torridon
Fort William Mallaig Applecross Hebrides
The Cairngorms
Scotland is a land of lyrical landscapes and a spirit that feels a little larger than life. It’s a place where ancient castles stand sentinel over shimmering lochs and rugged mountains. This is a country that doesn’t just invite you to visit; it calls you to get wonderfully lost in its enchanting, untamed beauty.
From the vibrant, cobbled streets of Edinburgh to the breathtaking quiet of the Highlands, Scotland is a masterclass in contrasts. It’s a place to embrace the wild, whether that’s by sailing to a secluded island or enjoying a dram of whisky by a roaring fire after a bracing walk. It’s where the
past and present live side by side, creating a spirit that is both ancient and wonderfully alive. Our collection of nine PoB Hotels offers a range of uniquely Scottish experiences. From the elegance of a private country house with its own tennis courts to a magnificent floating hotel on Edinburgh’s waterfront, you can choose to live out a fairy-tale fantasy in a grand baronial castle with sea safari adventures. Or perhaps you’d prefer an elegant hotel nestled on a quiet street with a garden full of surprises. Each of our hand-picked properties help you unlock the heart and soul of Scotland’s rugged beauty and let its majesty captivate you.
Where
Visit for: Game, set & relax | Style: Audacious Victorian revived
“There are vases of fresh-cut flowers in violent bursts of colour. Then come the statement floral wallpapers, luxe velvet sofas and modern art from the Murrays’ own collection. The vibe is rich, busy, Victoriana-with-a-wink and noticeably tartan-free.” The Times
Interesting Fact: Cromlix boasts its very own private chapel within the grounds.
Local inspiration: Doune Castle, stunning filming location for the TV series Outlander.
Don’t forget: Your trainers – the hotel’s very own tennis and pickle ball courts await, ready for a spirited match!
Closest airport: Edinburgh
Closest rail station: Dunblane
Set amid the rolling lowlands of Scotland, Cromlix is an award-winning Victorian mansion and estate, owned by tennis ace Andy Murray and his wife Kim. With a beautifully bold palette and undeniable style, this country house escape is as warm and inviting as it is elegant. Each room is a masterpiece of vibrant hues, with bathrooms that promise nothing short of extravagant indulgence.
The staff are notoriously attentive yet discreet, leaving you to relax as if in a cherished country home. With a spirited service and bold, refined flair, this is a truly curious and captivating find. What’s more, from early May 2026, Cromlix will unveil two new restaurants, offering locally sourced dishes with an unmistakable Scottish flair, a dedicated wellness cottage for two, and three additional suites, all adding to the blissfully brilliant retreat.
Kinbuck, Near Dunblane, Stirling, FK15 9JT
01786 822 125
“Most Highland hotels do not have a Picasso in the drawing room. But Fife Arms is not most Highland hotels.” Sunday Times
Originally a Victorian coaching inn, The Fife Arms is a historic hotel nestled within the breathtaking Cairngorms National Park. As settings go, they don’t get more authentically Scottish than this. The magnificent landscape is a veritable playground for everything from invigorating hillwalking to rewarding foraging and thrilling salmon fishing in the world-famous River Dee.
But it’s the inside of The Fife Arms that has truly earned the hotel its widespread and well-deserved critical acclaim. Staying here, with its distinctive and artful ambiance, is an experience in itself – a truly curiously curated journey through art and design. For guests seeking activities beyond its captivating walls, the in-house ghillies make it their mission to deliver bespoke, bucket-list-worthy excursions. This is an audaciously distinctive stay.
Interesting Fact: The Fife Arms houses an art collection featuring over 16,000 pieces by the likes of Picasso and Bruegel.
Local inspiration: V&A Dundee – a must for design aficionados.
Don’t forget: Your sturdiest walking boots – for exploring the vast national park.
Closest airport: Aberdeen
Closest rail station: Aberdeen
Mar Road, Braemar, Aberdeenshire, AB35 5YN 0133 972 0200
“Imagine a miniature luxury liner with an Art Deco via 1930s Hollywood feel, all luxuriously deep carpets, curvaceous wood panelling, leather and sparkling glass. Stay in the Skerryvore Suite and you’ll have your own private deck.”The Telegraph
Interesting Fact: Fingal began its illustrious life as a lighthouse tender for keepers across Scotland’s coastlines.
Local inspiration: The Royal Yacht Britannia, majestically docked just a short walk away.
Don’t forget: To see the original Engine Room.
Closest airport: Edinburgh
Closest rail station: Edinburgh Waverley
One of the most unique UK hotels, Fingal is majestically docked on Edinburgh’s vibrant waterfront. Step aboard this luxury ship and discover a seamless blend of old-world elegance and modern-day glamour, all crowned with culinary excellence. Arrive in effortless style on the convenient tram line that connects directly to and from the airport via the city centre.
Staying at Fingal is a truly captivating sojourn, defined by an air of romance and unhurried luxury. From the spectacular cabins with their curved walls and portholes to The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar, boasting Art Deco interiors, a shimmering ceiling, and tailored award-winning fine-dining, you’re reminded at every turn that this is no ordinary hotel. Expansive decks invite you to sip Champagne, stargaze, and ruminate on this one-of-a-kind enchanting experience.
Alexandra Dock, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 7DX 0131 357 5000
“This five-star hideaway is a superb example of the Scottish Baronial style of architecture with its mystical towers, turrets and crenellations. From the castle, you have views of the famous volcanic outcrop of Ailsa Craig.” Tatler
Interesting Fact: Winston Churchill and General Eisenhower are believed to have planned the D-Day landings at Glenapp.
Local inspiration: Burns Monument and Gardens, steeped in poetic history.
Don’t forget: A fishing rod for the Hebridean Sea Safari.
Closest airport: Glasgow
Closest rail station: Girvan
From on-site archery and mountain biking to their very own private boat and luxury glamping, this fairy-tale Scottish baronial castle offers more than 70 different and truly unique experiences. Spot the majestic turrets, the endless grounds, the two fabulous restaurants and the magnificent rooms – then simply imagine staying here. Oak panelled halls, roaring fires, and sumptuous suites combine with a distinct Victorian grandeur – the hotel is often likened to a ‘mini-Downton Abbey’.
And for the ultimate immersion, bask in the breathtaking views from the Castle Penthouse Suite, the largest hotel suite in Scotland, complete with four incredible bedrooms, a sauna, period kitchen, media room and so much more. It’s an impeccably independent stay, offering ravishingly refined luxury that genuinely sets the imagination soaring.
Ballantrae, Ayrshire, KA26 0NZ
0146 583 1212
Visit for: Wildlife encounters | Style: One-of-a-kind nautical luxury
“Hebridean Princess offers a lifestyle more akin to a sumptuous stately home. The 28 bedrooms are named after West Coast Scottish islands, castles, sounds, lochs and bays, and bedecked in finery usually associated with life of the aristocracy.” Daily Mail
Wild landscapes, the best beaches on Scotland’s captivating west coast, abundant wildlife, and centuries of history await you aboard the Hebridean Princess. And below deck, expect all the comforts and subtle luxuries of a fine boutique hotel. Take your place on the commanding viewing deck, arguably the best seat in the house, with the wind in your hair and a warming dram to hand. Seabirds wheel and dive gracefully above. Keep keen eyes to the waves, for seals, porpoises, dolphins, and even whales are often sighted if luck is with you. On the horizon, you might spot the colourful houses of Tobermory, the rugged coastlines of Coll, Iona, Colonsay or Rùm, serene sea lochs, or the ancient turrets of baronial castles. The invigorating sounds of the sea are your constant companion. This is a perfectly pampered journey, offering ravishingly refined exploration.
Interesting Fact: Hebridean Princess was originally built in 1964 as a car ferry.
Local inspiration: Remote anchorages and island idylls.
Don’t forget: Your camera – an absolute must to capture the ever-changing, dramatic island and sea views.
Closest airport: Glasgow
Closest rail station: Glasgow
Sails mainly from Oban with some departures from Greenock and Invergordon 0175 670 4704
“A stay at Mar Hall feels as if a grand old Scottish estate has been given a new lease of life, blending its old-world glamour with a wonderfully playful edge.” British Travel Journal
Interesting Fact: The grand hall, with its magnificent ceiling, once played host to the most glamorous of soirees.
Local inspiration: A blustery riverside walk, followed by a roaring fire.
Don’t forget: A decadent dip in the pool after a devilishly good round.
Closest airport: Glasgow
Closest rail station: Bishopton
Set amidst 240 acres of ancient woodland, with magnificent views of the River Clyde, Mar Hall is a heritage hotel on a deliciously grand scale. Picture yourself strolling through the manicured grounds, indulging in a round on the championship 18-hole golf course, before retreating to a grand private space fit for a duke or duchess. From refined à la carte dishes at The Dining Room to afternoon tea in The Gallery and an exceptional whisky collection at Slàinte Bar, the culinary options are delectable. For those seeking adventure, the estate offers exhilarating activities from 4x4 off-road driving and clay pigeon shooting to more serene pursuits like falconry and hiking. Guests can unwind in the spa with treatments, a swimming pool, saunas, and steam rooms. This is a stay that feels utterly intimate, where Victorian grandeur gets a very modern twist, and impeccable style meets curated luxury. After all, what’s the point of such a magnificent manor if you can’t enjoy it with a touch of fun?
Earl of Mar Estate, Mar Hall Ave, Bishopton, PA7 5NW 0141 812 9999
“Ness Walk’s restaurant, Torrish – arguably the best in the city – celebrates Scottish produce in refined style with rope-grown Glencoe mussels or Highland venison wellington and North Sea halibut.” The Sunday Times
With its gated entrance and peaceful ambiance, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re in the serene Scottish countryside at Ness Walk, when in fact, it’s right in the heart of the vibrant city of Inverness.
Nestled on the leafy banks of the River Ness, guests are just 10 minutes from the world-famous Loch Ness, a place with tales of a mysterious monster lurking in its depths. Highland hospitality is one of the many tangible gems of Ness Walk. The building itself is Grade-B listed and blazoned with traditional detailing, hinting at the refined experience within.
Torrish Restaurant is a firm fixture on the Scottish culinary map; each dish is a celebration of local small-scale artisan and craft producers, farmers, and growers. The service, meanwhile, is lavish and exquisitely personal. This is a truly distinctive urban retreat with a genuine sense of place.
Interesting Fact: Torrish Restaurant is named after the distinguished salmon fly, long favoured by anglers on the River Ness.
Local inspiration: The dramatic Culloden Battlefield is just a short drive away.
Don’t forget: Your best camera to capture those views of the tranquil riverbanks.
Closest airport: Inverness
Closest rail station: Inverness
12 Ness Walk, Inverness, IV3 5SQ 0146 325 7100
“There’s simply nothing like it anywhere in the world... James Thomson has turned this bastion of Edinburgh sensibilities into Scotland’s most sumptuous hotel.” The Guardian
Interesting Fact: Prestonfield House was originally built in 1687 as the home of Edinburgh’s Lord Provost, Sir James Dick.
Local inspiration: The Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Don’t forget: Your walking boots – an absolute essential for conquering Arthur’s Seat and enjoying panoramic city views!
Closest airport: Edinburgh
Closest rail station: Edinburgh Waverley
Combining heritage and unique character, Prestonfield House possesses the exquisite feeling of a secluded country retreat, yet it’s mere minutes from Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre. Step inside to find individually designed rooms showcasing Prestonfield’s distinguished antique style.
Wickedly rich and dramatic, the stylish and oh-soglamorous Rhubarb restaurant occupies grand Regency rooms at the heart of the hotel, promising a culinary journey as lavish as its surroundings.
Outside, explore 20 acres of magnificent gardens, where peacocks strut with theatrical flair through elegant topiary and meticulously manicured lawns, all perched majestically next to the remarkable Arthur’s Seat. This is an audaciously distinctive stay, where every detail is a testament to unapologetic luxury and flamboyant charm.
Priestfield Rd, Edinburgh, EH16 5UT 0131 225 7800
“A grand Scottish lodge with one of the best settings in the UK, this hotel offers everything from superb food to a comprehensive outdoor activity programme. With comfortable rooms and an abundance of thoughtful touches, this is a fantastic Highland escape with the surrounding beauty at its heart.” The Telegraph
Interesting Fact: The hotel’s Drawing Room features a unique Zodiac ceiling, a tribute to Queen Victoria.
Local inspiration: Eilean Donan Castle.
Don’t forget: To book your adventure with Torridon Outdoors – the key to truly experiencing this unparalleled place.
Closest airport: Inverness
Closest rail station: Achnasheen
Plan your great escape to The Torridon, where roaring log fires offer an immediate, warm welcome. Explore the sprawling 58-acre parkland estate, home to a meticulously managed two-acre kitchen garden and farm providing mouthwatering produce with a true field-to-fork ethos. Let the expert Torridon team curate your Highland adventures, from a sophisticated whisky tasting in a classical whisky and gin bar to invigorating outdoor pursuits in breathtaking Loch Torridon or the majestic surrounding Munros.
Rest easy, knowing this hotel is ecologically sound and proudly recognised for its unwavering commitment to sustainability. At day’s end, step outside and gaze heavenward at the stars in some of the country’s darkest skies – a truly celestial spectacle. This is an impeccably independent stay, promising authentic immersion in Scotland’s wild heart.
Annat
By Achnasheen, Wester Ross, IV22 2EY 0144 579 1242
Our hotels in the Welsh wilderness
Where history echoes through tranquil shores and timeless landscapes
194 Bodysgallen Hall & Spa
195 Grove of Narberth
196 Palé Hall Hotel
197 Penmaenuchaf
198 The Angel Hotel
Wales is a land of lyrical landscapes and a spirit as bold as its mountains. It’s where ancient legends feel fresh and alive, echoing through lush green valleys and along a coastline that feels both rugged and romantic. This is a place where you can find serene retreats tucked away in nature, a haven for those who seek not just a holiday, but a story to tell.
From the formidable castles that stand as silent witnesses to history to the blissfully British charm of its coastal towns, Wales is a country of captivating contrasts. It’s a place for long walks in the wild, followed by a
deliciously distinctive meal, and for feeling a little more connected to the past with every step.
Our five PoB Hotels in Wales are a collection of individual properties that celebrate the unique Welsh character. From the luxuriously polished elegance of a historic hall with a touch of eccentric charm, to the deliciously distinctive dining at a retreat nestled in its own tranquil gardens. You can also find your own serene retreat at a beautiful Welsh manor house, or discover a little bit of cosy and captivating charm with a stay at an elegant home-away-from-home known for its famous Afternoon Tea.
Where to make your best memories in Wales
“The sweeping views from the medieval lookout tower are sensational and the house has great character, with 15 antique-filled bedrooms and a formal dining room in the main hall.” The Daily Telegraph
Interesting Fact: Bodysgallen Hall features a rare 17th-century stone tower.
Local inspiration: Plas Newydd and the Bodnant Garden.
Don’t forget: Suitable shoes – essential for exploring the several enchanting woodland walks that crisscross the estate.
Closest airport: Manchester
Closest rail station: Llandudno Junction
You’ll spot the distinctive chimneys of this romantic hall peeping through the trees of its expansive surrounding parkland. Step inside, and oak staircases and intriguing alcoves hint at the mysteries of its rich history. The grand, panelled entrance hall and drawing room, complete with impressive fireplaces, are tangible evidence of the opulent legacy of a distinguished past, and offer a a quintessentially British stay.
Twisting stairs lead to individual bedrooms, each offering spectacular views of the formidable Conwy Castle and the dramatic mountains of Snowdonia beyond. With feet firmly on terra firma, meander through the extensive gardens and enjoy the meticulously restored 17th-century parterre, a serene lily pond, fragrant rose garden, whimsical follies, and the secluded ladies’ walk – all embodying the very essence of romance.
The Royal Welsh Way, Llandudno, North Wales LL30 1RS 01492 584466
“Fires blaze and candlelight flickers in this stylish hotel with views over the Preseli Hills. The interiors are lovely with an eclectic mix of high-ceilinged rooms and cosy wood-panelled cwtchs. The food is divine, using produce from the kitchen gardens.” The Times
Interesting Fact: The Grove of Narberth has its own kitchen gardens, ensuring a true farm-to-fork experience.
Local inspiration: Venture to Amroth Beach and Colby Woodland Gardens.
Don’t forget: Your binoculars for spotting abundant wildlife along the coastal path.
Closest airport: Cardiff
Closest rail station: Narberth
Nestled in the heart of the beautiful Pembrokeshire countryside, Grove of Narberth is a charming country house where you’ll find inviting bedrooms and truly outstanding, award-winning dining. Here, interiors crafted by the acclaimed designer Martin Hulbert create an atmosphere of unhurried elegance.
Guests needing pampering will delight in the deep double-ended baths, sumptuous king-sized beds, and wonderful in-room massages. Gaze out of the windows for scenic views of the majestic Preseli Mountains, or venture out to explore the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, with its sweeping sandy beaches and quaint little harbours. Grove of Narberth is the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy the very best of Welsh cuisine and a truly delightful stay in this most stunning part of Wales.
Molleston, Narberth, Pembrokeshire, SA67 8BX 0183 486 0915
“Palé Hall is where you come to spoil yourself in Snowdonia. Steeped in rich history – Queen Victoria once stayed there – and standing on the edge of Snowdonia National Park the Grade-II listed Palé Hall has been redeveloped by its owners.” Wales Online
Interesting Fact: Queen Victoria was a guest at Palé Hall in 1889.
Local inspiration: Bala Lake Railway – a steam train that winds through Snowdonia countryside along Llyn Tegid.
Don’t forget: To pop by The Bryntirion Inn, Palé Hall’s newly opened sister pub.
Closest airport: Manchester
Closest rail station: Chester
Amagnificent Grade-II listed Victorian country house, Palé Hall rests on the edge of Snowdonia National Park, embraced by sweeping lawns, woodland gardens with a tranquil sculpture trail, and the gentle flow of the River Dee.
Built in 1871 and steeped in history, it has hosted Queen Victoria and served as a private sporting estate, before being exquisitely restored to its original five-star grandeur. Today, it’s a curiously curated retreat where you can indulge in everything from country pursuits such as shooting and fishing to tranquil woodland walks and pottery experiences.
A wonderfully wild gastronomic journey awaits in the Henry Robertson Dining Room, where the Michelin Green Star-awarded Head Chef Edward Marsh celebrates hyper-local Welsh ingredients. This is a place to lose yourself, where luxury and nature meet in the most magical of ways.
Palé Estate, Llandderfel, Bala, LL23 7PS 0167 853 0285
Michelin Green Star for Henry Robertson
“A revamped Welsh manor house with panache. Easy-going glamour, tasting menus with local produce, and stupendous scenery in a national park setting — roll up to your favourite new mountain retreat.” The Times
Interesting Fact: Penmaenuchaf Hotel’s gardens are registered with Cadw for their historic interest as a well-preserved 19thcentury terraced garden.
Local inspiration: Dolgellau.
Don’t forget: A discerning palate – for the exquisite tasting menus.
Closest airport: Manchester
Closest rail station: Chester
Nestled within the breathtaking embrace of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, Penmaenuchaf Hotel is a beautifully revamped Welsh manor house, offering both refined solace and adventure. Here, easygoing glamour meets stupendous scenery, creating a truly immersive experience. The Afon Restaurant presents tasting menus that celebrate local produce with an authentic flair, while the Mynydd Bar & Lounge offers a relaxed spot for a pre-dinner tipple.
Though a standalone spa isn’t on the cards, in-room massages ensure your relaxation is paramount. With its distinctive ambiance, this hotel serves as a superb base for exploring the region’s myths, mountains, and picturesque towns, promising both unwavering comfort and truly memorable excursions into the wild Welsh heartland. It’s an audaciously distinctive stay.
Penmaenpool, Dogellau, Gwynedd, LL40 1YB 0134 121 2121
“With its high ceilings and nods to Art Deco glamour, this is one classy place to base yourself – whether you’re here for September’s food festival (in which case, you’d better book now), or a scramble up into the hills (the Skirrid, Sugar Loaf and Blorenge).” The Independent
Acoaching inn since 1829, this family-run, fine Georgian building in Abergavenny is now remarkably contemporary and stylish, boasting sleek furnishings and original art. Enter through the charming courtyard and marvel over the unique touches, including lavish bathrooms, pocket-sprung mattresses with silky Percale bed linens, and extra fluffy towels.
When it comes to the food, prepare for a flavour fanfare. Just next door, the hotel’s own Angel Bakery bakes fresh produce daily, providing wonderfully buttery baked goods for breakfast. Seasonal modern British food is also served in the elegant Oak Room restaurant and the cosy Foxhunter Bar, while the impressive Afternoon Tea is truly decadent. A short drive away, you’ll also find The Walnut Tree, an iconic Michelin-starred restaurant – part of the same family group.
Interesting Fact: The coaching inn was originally a posting inn, built in 1829.
Local inspiration: The Art Shop and 19thcentury Chapel in Abergavenny.
Don’t forget: Your binoculars – essential for stargazing at the first International Dark-Sky Reserve in Wales.
Closest airport: Cardiff
Closest rail station: Abergavenny
Dine, unwind, or stay the night — one voucher, any PoB Hotel
Wonder-full wellness. Serene retreats
Gift some serious self-care with the Pampers Paradise Spa Voucher.
With access to PoB Hotels’ most peaceful spa destinations, this voucher wraps the recipient in bliss – from soothing treatments to rejuvenating classes. Available in values of £100, £150, and £200, it’s ideal for anyone in need of a proper reset.
Locally sourced. Impeccably plated.
The Seasoned to Perfection voucher is your golden ticket to an unforgettable dining experience. Redeemable across the PoB Hotels collection, it’s perfect for food lovers who seek the extraordinary –from relaxed lunches to indulgent dinners. Choose from £100, £150 or £200 and give a gift that’s worth toasting to.
Quintessentially British. Incredibly indulgent.
The Time for Tea voucher is a celebration of the nation’s favourite ritual. Expect elegantly tiered treats, perfectly steeped brews, and a setting that brings charm by the teacup. Available in denominations of £50 and £75 – because everyone deserves a moment of delicious tradition.
Curated luxury. Crisp linen. Outrageously comfortable.
The brand new Night and Day Voucher is everything you’d expect from a PoB Hotels escape – a delicious mix of character, comfort, and charm. This flexible gift can be used towards overnight stays at any PoB Hotel and makes it oh-so easy to plan an impromptu getaway – or the perfect weekend away. Go on, gift a little escapism, starting from £250.
...and those who rarely spoil themselves.
Prefer to let them choose their own adventure? PoB Hotels’ monetary vouchers offer the ultimate flexibility. Whether it’s a romantic break, afternoon indulgence, or long-overdue me-time, this is a gift that says: “You deserve this.” Starting from £75 and sent in a stylish gift envelope – or instantly, via email.
*This activity or these facilities are not onsite but nearby, or in-room massage treatments are available as opposed to spa facilities at the hotel
**Restrictions may apply. We advise guests to check when making a reservation if there is an age limit below which children cannot be accommodated. ***Golf and fishing facilities may be on site or nearby.
activity or these facilities are not onsite but nearby, or in-room massage treatments are available as opposed to spa facilities at the hotel **Restrictions may apply. We advise guests to check when making a reservation if there is an age limit below which children cannot be accommodated.
Whether it's a taste for fine dining or a passion for the great outdoors, we all have our own definition of 'perfect'. That's why we created our collections - to pair you with an experience that's unique and extraordinary...
Discover our collections: A gift to you from PoB Hotels, each edition of The Handle is inspired by a unique quintessentially British experience.
From wild swimming in glistening lakes to scenic walks along rugged hills, the tranquillity of being in the wilderness is unmatched. Our countryside hotels offer everything a classically British hotel should: glorious gardens, bustling wildlife, a range of rural activities, and delicious field-to-fork dining. Just pause, notice the little things, and take it all in.
Whether you enjoy a classically British afternoon tea, moreish street-style feasts, or awardwinning cuisine served with tasting-menu finesse, we're all a foodie at heart. We'll pair you with extraordinary experiences, and of course, the flavours you sample have a huge part to play. Whichever of our restaurants you visit, you're guaranteed to leave wanting more.
It's fair to say a little me-time is needed once in a while. And how better to unwind than with a restful British luxury spa and wellness experience. While away the hours poolside with our wellness issue in hand, and feel inspired to treat yourself to an indulgent treatment, or join a group yoga session to find your Zen at one of our British spa hotels.
with a twist
A captivating collection that masterfully blends the rich tapestry of history and heritage with the finest comforts of the present. State-of-the-art facilities and luxurious comforts create an exquisite balance between nostalgia and innovation. Immerse yourself in a journey where the echoes of history resonate with the conveniences of today, offering meticulously preserved architecture and decor that tell the stories of the past.
Currently published: Volume 1: Walk on the Wild Side (2023) Volume 2: Seasoned to Perfection (2024) Volume 3: Nurture Your Soul (2025) and this edition, Volume 4: Now & Then (2026)
Coming soon: Volume 5: Full Bodied (2027)
Please don't forget to take this edition of The Handle (Volume 4), Now & Then; History with a twist, (2026) home with you. It's a wonderful keepsake and gift from PoB Hotels that we would very much like you to collect and cherish. Rest assured, the hotel or venue will restock it for future guests to enjoy, so feel free to keep and treasure this copy always.
Reading this copy at a PoB Hotel? Then it's yours to take home!