Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend away, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, finding the perfect place to stay is key to a memorable trip. And with an abundance of luxurious and unique accommodations scattered throughout the United Kingdom, there’s no shortage of options for travellers looking for something special. From stately castles to cozy cottages, the UK offers a diverse range of show-stopping stays that are sure to impress. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 5 of the most outstanding places to stay in the UK. So pack your bags and get ready to be wowed by these incredible accommodations.
1. Lavish Luxury at The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh
Located in the heart of Scotland’s capital city, The Balmoral Hotel is a five-star luxury hotel that exudes elegance and sophistication. With its stunning Victorian architecture and prime location on Princes Street, this historic property has been a favorite among celebrities and dignitaries since it first opened its doors in 1902. The Balmoral boasts 168 opulent guest rooms, including 20 suites, all featuring plush furnishings, marble bathrooms, and modern amenities. But what sets this hotel apart from others is its unparalleled level of service – from the moment you step inside, you’ll feel like royalty.
The Rooms and Suites at The Balmoral
The Balmoral offers a variety of room options, from classic king rooms to spacious one-bedroom suites. Each room is uniquely designed with a traditional Scottish flair, featuring rich fabrics, dark wood furnishings, and luxurious bedding. The Deluxe King Room is perfect for solo travellers or couples and includes a comfortable king-size bed, a seating area, and a marble bathroom with a bathtub and shower. For families or those seeking a little more space, the Junior Suite offers a separate living room and bedroom, along with a king-size bed and a luxurious marble bathroom.
The Michelin-Starred Dining Experience
One of the highlights of staying at The Balmoral is the dining experience at its Michelin-starred restaurant, Number One. Led by renowned chef Mark Donald, the restaurant serves up modern Scottish cuisine using the finest local ingredients. With a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, Number One is the perfect place to indulge in a multi-course tasting menu or à la carte dishes such as seared scallops, Highland venison, and Scottish lobster.
The Spa at The Balmoral
After a day of exploring Edinburgh’s many attractions, treat yourself to a pampering session at The Balmoral’s award-winning spa. Inspired by Scotland’s natural elements, the spa offers an array of treatments from massages to facials, all using luxurious ESPA products. For the ultimate indulgence, book the Balmoral Signature Treatment – a full-body massage using hot stones and essential oils, followed by a facial and scalp massage.
2. Secluded Serenity at The Scarlet Hotel in Cornwall
Nestled on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, The Scarlet Hotel in Cornwall is an adults-only eco-retreat that offers a truly unique and peaceful getaway. The hotel has been designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating features such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and energy-saving systems. But don’t let its eco-friendly status fool you – The Scarlet is also a luxurious and indulgent escape, with stunning sea views, a relaxing spa, and mouth-watering dining options.
The Eco-Friendly Rooms and Suites
The Scarlet has 37 rooms, each with its own private balcony or terrace offering breathtaking views of the ocean. The hotel’s signature rooms, called “Cliff Top Rooms,” feature floor-to-ceiling windows, a freestanding bath, and a private outdoor hot tub – perfect for soaking under the stars. For a truly unique experience, book one of the “Just Right Rooms,” which are built into the cliffside and offer a cozy yet luxurious hideaway.
The Ayurvedic Spa
The Scarlet’s Ayurvedic spa is all about holistic wellness, with a focus on balancing the mind, body, and spirit. With treatments based on ancient Indian techniques and using natural products, the spa offers a range of massages, facials, and body scrubs that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and relaxed. Make sure to try the signature Scarlet Journey, a full-body massage that incorporates elements of Ayurveda, reflexology, and Swedish massage techniques.
The Cliff Top Restaurant
Food lovers will be in heaven at The Scarlet Hotel’s cliff-top restaurant. Led by head chef Mike Francis, the restaurant specializes in fresh and locally sourced ingredients, creating dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Choose from a variety of tasting menus or order à la carte dishes such as Cornish crab, beef Wellington, and lemon tart. And don’t forget to pair your meal with a bottle from the hotel’s extensive wine list.
3. Magical Stay at the Ashford Castle in Ireland
Located in County Mayo, Ireland, the Ashford Castle is a stunning property steeped in history and charm. Originally built in the 13th century, the castle has been transformed into a luxury hotel that offers guests an unforgettable experience. With 83 rooms and suites, award-winning dining options, and a host of activities, the Ashford Castle is the perfect place to feel like royalty while exploring the beauty of Ireland.
The Royal Accommodations
Each room at the Ashford Castle is uniquely decorated, featuring antique furniture, plush fabrics, and traditional Irish touches. The Deluxe King Room is perfect for couples, offering a comfortable king-size bed, a marble bathroom, and views of the castle’s gardens or Lough Corrib. For families or larger groups, the Staterooms feature separate living and sleeping areas, along with stunning lake views.
Michelin-Starred Dining at The George V Restaurant
For an unforgettable dining experience, make sure to book a table at The George V restaurant at the Ashford Castle. With a coveted Michelin star and an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, this is the perfect place for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. Executive Chef Philippe Farineau creates seasonal menus that showcase the best of Irish cuisine, such as poached lobster, Connemara lamb, and traditional Irish stew.
Activities Fit for Royalty
The Ashford Castle offers a wide range of activities for guests to enjoy, from falconry and horseback riding to golf and fishing. Take a guided tour of the castle’s beautiful grounds or explore the nearby town of Cong, the setting for the classic film “The Quiet Man.” For a truly unique experience, take a cruise on Lough Corrib aboard the castle’s private wooden yacht, The Isle of Innisfree.
4. Quaint Charm at The Pig in the New Forest
Tucked away in the scenic New Forest National Park in Hampshire, The Pig is a charming country house hotel that offers a laid-back and rustic atmosphere. Set within a historic 17th-century manor house, The Pig exudes quirky charm, with an eclectic mix of vintage furnishings, modern amenities, and whimsical decor. With its focus on sustainability and delicious farm-to-table dining, The Pig is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The Country-Chic Rooms
Each of The Pig’s 30 rooms has been individually designed with a mix of vintage and modern touches. The Comfy Room is perfect for solo travellers or couples, with a king-size bed, a rain shower, and views of the surrounding forest. For a more luxurious experience, book the Garden Room, which features a private terrace with a roll-top bathtub and stunning views of the hotel’s gardens.
Farm-to-Table Dining
The Pig takes great pride in its farm-to-table dining concept, using ingredients grown in the hotel’s own kitchen garden or sourced from local suppliers. The dining room, housed in the hotel’s former stables, offers a relaxed yet elegant setting to enjoy dishes such as New Forest venison, wild mushroom risotto, and pork belly with apple sauce. And for a truly unique experience, book a spot at the chef’s table, where you can watch the kitchen team in action while enjoying a specially curated menu.
Relaxation in the Kitchen Garden Spa
For a peaceful and rejuvenating break, head to The Pig’s Kitchen Garden Spa, set within a restored greenhouse. With a focus on natural and organic treatments, the spa offers an array of massages, facials, and body scrubs that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. Make sure to try the “Herb House Massage,” which uses a blend of herbs grown in the hotel’s garden to soothe tired muscles and promote relaxation.
5. Glamping at Fforest in Wales
For travellers looking for something a little different, Fforest in Wales offers a glamping experience like no other. Set on a 200-acre farm in the lush Welsh countryside, Fforest is a collection of unique and stylish accommodations that offer a mix of luxury and adventure. From cozy wooden cabins to spacious geodesic domes, there’s something for everyone at this one-of-a-kind retreat.
The Unique Accommodations
Fforest offers a variety of accommodations, all with their own unique style and charm. The Cosy Dome is perfect for couples and features a king-size bed, wood-burning stove, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. For families or groups, the crog lofts offer two bedrooms, a kitchenette, and a private deck with a hot tub. But for a truly unforgettable experience, book a stay in the Sauna Cabin – a cozy wooden cabin with its own sauna and outdoor shower.
The Outdoor Activities
Fforest is all about getting back to nature, and there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy in the great outdoors. Take a dip in the natural swimming pond, spend an afternoon fishing on the river, or explore the nearby beaches and woodlands. For those looking for a bit more adventure, Fforest offers a range of activities such as tree climbing, wild swimming, and coastal walks.
The Farm-to-Table Dining Experience
At Fforest, every meal is a celebration of local and seasonal produce, with many ingredients sourced directly from the farm. The onsite restaurant, Blas at Fforest, offers a daily changing menu that showcases the best of Welsh cuisine, with dishes such as roasted lamb, foraged mushroom tart, and homemade ice cream. And don’t forget to stop by the farm shop, where you can pick up some of the delicious products used in the restaurant.
Conclusion: Discover Your Dream Stay in the UK
From lavish luxury to glamping adventures, the UK offers a wide range of show-stopping stays that are sure to impress. The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh, The Scarlet Hotel in Cornwall, the Ashford Castle in Ireland, The Pig in the New Forest, and Fforest in Wales all offer unique and memorable experiences for travellers seeking something special. So whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, these exceptional accommodations are guaranteed to make your trip one to remember.