The Best Country Pubs for Weekends from London
Planning a romantic weekend out of London? Want to surprise your partner with a cosy but stylish night or two away that won't cost the earth? Then look no further — below we have curated a hotlist of great country pubs and historic inns ideal for a weekend stay, chosen for character, location, comfort, hospitality and FOOD! Since none of them have very many rooms, finding availability can sometimes feel like like gold dust, so do use this list to book well in advance, and if you can manage a break in the week, or take a Monday off and book Sunday to Tuesday, you will have more options and often a better price.
These country pubs and inns with rooms range from the old world traditional, with exposed beams, stone flagged floors, roaring fires and a bar snug (unhappily fast disappearing), to that breed of 21st century designer gastro pub in charming villages, more often than not a stylish conversion of a run of the mill village pub with the addition of an interior designer and a great chef.
So here goes. We have split the list into two parts — those within a two hour drive of London (measured from Charing Cross), and those between 2 and 3 hours drive away. Some you can reach more easily by train. Depending where you live, these timings can vary.
Country pubs with rooms - within two hours drive
Hare & Hounds, Newbury
A 17th Century Georgian coaching inn in the Berkshire Downs close to the home of horse racing. This comfortable pub with rooms follows the racing theme. It's close to London and a great option for a good value stay, with bracing walks on the Downs nearby — and Newbury town on your doorstep.
The Bell, East Sussex
East Sussex is a fabulous place to spend a weekend, with so many small villages and country towns to explore in beautiful rolling countryside. The Bell offers Individually styled rooms filled with antiques and artworks and free standing copper baths. The atmospheric bar is popular with locals, and serves the usual pub classics.
The Crab and Boar, Berkshire
This historic rural pub with rooms offers comfortable, cosy interiors with a contemporary twist and an excellent restaurant. Some rooms boast a private hot tub and terrace, so ask in advance. There are great walks nearby or you can get help from the pub to arrange nearby country pursuits, from fishing to clay pigeon shooting. A perfect weekend getaway.
The Crown Inn, Surrey
Sat on the edge of a village green, this charming and ancient coaching inn (14th century) offers a picture postcard experience of the classic country inn — exposed beams, flagstone tiles, roaring fires and four poster beds. However, they have layered on a thoughtful range of mod cons, from DAB radios to in-room DVDs, so you are guaranteed a comfortable 21st century stay.
The Crown Inn, Oxfordshire
Located in the charming Cotswold town of Woodstock, this 18th century inn is gorgeously decorated with boutique furnishings and modern en-suites. The restaurant pulls in the locals. It's a great weekend retreat, ideal for couples, and Blenheim Palace is nearby.
Dundas Arms, Berkshire
This grade II listed Georgian inn is set on the banks of the Kennet, in the picturesque village of Kintbury. Eight rooms are decorated in classic country house style, with luxurious bathrooms and designer wallpaper. The river rooms have private sit-out terraces. The restaurant caters for informal pub food as well as à la carte dishes.
The George & Heart House, Margate
This quirky and atmospheric coaching inn in Margate Old town is close to the sea and great value. Margate makes for an excellent getaway from London, with plenty to do and see, and the beach is within walking distance. Each of the 7 creaky bedrooms are individually styled, some funkier than others. There's a lively bar and restaurant, hugely popular with locals, serving great food and cocktails. A romantic boutique bolthole, overflowing with personality.
The Horse Guards Inn, West Sussex
On the edge of the Petworth House estate, this is a wonderfully homely inn in a sleeping village in the South Downs national park; charming and warm in a tranquil part of the country. The food is top quality. An ideal stay for couples and families alike, with fantastic walking all around.
The Pheasant, Berkshire
Just off the M4 amid the chalky North Wessex Downs, this boutique bolthole caters for locals and city folk alike. They cook with seasonal local produce and it's a popular dining destination. The rooms are beautifully renovated with soft fabrics and comfortable beds.
The Trout, Oxfordshire
The famous 17th Century Trout at Tadpole Bridge backs on to a rural section of the Thames with its own private mooring. They offer six comfortable rooms, "classic country" in style, located around a pretty courtyard away from the bustle. The AA rosette restaurant steals the show, and in good weather you can sit out on the lovely riverside terrace. A wonderful country treat.
The White Horse, West Sussex
Charming and cosy, this ‘restaurant with rooms’ offers great food and contemporary B&B rooms with roll top copper baths and modern four-poster beds. Design care and detailing set this pub apart. Moments from the Goodwood Estate and in the middle of the South Downs, it's a great base for exporing or walking.
The Waterside Inn, Berkshire
This famous hostelry is the ultimate foodie mecca on the banks of the river Thames. Run by top chef Alain Roux (son of the late Michel), the dining is 3 star Michelin and formal, while the suites and bedrooms are sumptuous. The garden is stunning.
Country pubs with rooms - two to three hours drive
The Beckford Arms, Wiltshire
A popular old inn with a 21st century makeover. The immaculate attention to detail will satisfy the most demanding townie. The food is excellent, bedrooms are chic and comfortable, and the overall ambience is super chilled. Outside is the lovely South Wiltshire countryside.
The Double Red Duke, Oxfordshire
This country gastropub is in a picturesque Cotswolds village. Their individually styled rooms come with locally-sourced antiques, tasteful art of the walls, and some have in-room tubs for romantics. The restaurant is highly regarded and serves top British classics.
Lord Poulett Arms, Somerset
This thatched 17th Century smugglers' pub is in a picturesque Somerset village, well positioned for local exploring by car. The dining and the bar are popular with locals, with its great selection of ales, flagstone floors and roaring fires. They offer just six rooms, all cosy with roll top baths, and one with bunk beds for kids.
The Bell and Crown, Wiltshire
This beautifully restored country pub of character and charm is just off the A303, so very easy to get to from London. Each of the six rooms is stylishly decorated in calming shades, with lovely fabrics. There's an elegant dining room and a cosy bar, with log fires in winter. A gem of a place.
The Bradley Hare, Wiltshire
This traditional village pub with rooms has been done up with matchless taste, with well chosen modern art on the walls, good antiques, and a cool cosy vibe curated by a Soho House designer. They offer fine dining, very popular for miles around, and a lovely garden for sitting out in summer. Longleat is on its doorstep. A perfect weekend getaway in beautiful countryside.
The Devonshire Arms, Somerset
A former hunting lodge, the Devonshire Arms overlooks the village green, is a great base for foodies and nature lovers. Rooms are contemporary and comfortable, but the treat here is the restaurant, serving the finest local produce and a creative menu.
The Fox at Oddington, Gloucestershire
This uber fashionable pub renovation provides crackling fires, stone-flagged floors, a wood fired oven and a welcoming bar. As a Carole Bamford creation and part of the Daylesford empire, every detail is thought through, and the food is top notch and organic. Bedrooms are spacious, chic and super stylish, with fine linens and roll top baths.
The Kingham Plough, Oxfordshire
This award-winning traditional Cotswolds pub sits on the lovely Kingham village green. The rooms are done up in soft colours and manage to be spacious and cosy at the same time. The restaurant is well known locally and the place is permanently busy. It's in great area for walking and local exploring.
The Lamb at Hindon, Wiltshire
Another quintessential English village Inn, full of charm and history stretching back 800 years. Bedrooms have had a modern makeover and are cosy and plush. Check in here for roaring fires, hearty meals, and beautiful surroundings, either for a country weekend escape or as a stopover en route further West.
The Lamb Inn, Oxfordshire
The 18th century Lamb is a cut above your average Cotswolds B&B. In summer their rose scented gardens are charming, and inside you'll find antique oak furniture and colourful fabrics, with original wood floors in the bathrooms. The restaurant is award winning and always popular.
The Ram Inn, East Sussex
This quaint traditional pub with a handful of beautifully done up bedrooms is in the heart of the South Downs National Park. Classic pub food is served in the firelit restaurant. The rooms are in the eaves with sloping beamed ceilings, whitewashed walls, and antiques. Full of character.
The Wheatsheaf Inn, Gloucestershire
The Wheatsheaf Inn caters to the moneyed folk of Gloucestershire, so everything is top notch and done to a high standard. There's a pretty enclosed garden — perfect for children — a rustic treatment room and an informal Game Bar for coffee and light lunches. Bedrooms are tastefully decorated with deep baths and Hypnos beds. Food, as you would expect, is excellent.
Wild Thyme & Honey, Gloucestershire
Another picture postcard Cotswolds inn, this one done up with chic boutique interiors, and with a stand-out restaurant. Rustic-chic is the vibe in the bedrooms, with beams, stylish furniture, and indulgent rainforest showers or free-standing tubs. Ideal for both couples and families.
Still not sure where to book?
- Consider our Guru’s list of the Best Country House Hotels for Weekends from London, Best Country Escapes from London and the Best Hotels with Hot tubs near London
- Check out our recommendations of the10 Best Country House Hotels in the Cotswolds, and the 25 Best Country House Hotels in the UK
- or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
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The Lamb at Hindon Salisbury, Wiltshire 19 rooms from £119
Romantic Break - Recently refurbished rooms are elegantly decorated with crisp linens and antique pieces, plus there's cosy dining in the bar.Country Escape - A picture perfect English country Inn, complete with inglenook fireplaces, flag-stone floors and heavy wooden beams.Great walks - The hotel has compiled a range of walks starting from the doorstep.Sights nearby - Stonehenge is a short drive away and well worth checking out.
Recommended by - SawdaysCheck AvailabilityIntimate English village Inn full of charm and history - an institution for 800 years. Renovated, elegant rooms are cosy and plush. Guests are welcomed by roaring fires, hearty meals, and beautiful surroundings. A country escape or a stopover en route further West. See More
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The Devonshire Arms Langport, Somerset 9 rooms from £100
Country Escape - With fantastic gourmet pub food, a fine selection of booze, comfy beds and plenty of outdoor activities.Birdwatching - Witness the yearly starling murmurations, where Somerset starlings flock together over the Levels.Great walks - Get out and explore the coastal walks all along the Somerset Levels.Remote - Off the beaten track.
Recommended by - SawdaysCheck AvailabilityThis former hunting lodge, overlooking the village green, is an intimate stay for food and nature lovers. Rooms are contemporary and light offering en suite bathrooms. The restaurant prides itself on using only the finest produce and a menu revolving around this, matched with a well-stocked bar. See More
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The Beckford Arms Salisbury, Wiltshire 8 rooms from £95
Restaurant - Recommended.Fishing - Fly fishing on the Fonthill estateGreat walks - On the Fonthill EstateLocal markets - Good for local colour.Recommended by - I Escape, Good Hotel Guide, SawdaysCheck AvailabilityGreat new look for a favourite old inn – immaculate attention to detail will satisfy the most demanding townie. Excellent food, chic bedrooms & relaxed ambience all amid the lovely South Wiltshire countryside. See More
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The Wheatsheaf Inn Northleach, The Cotswolds 14 rooms from £130
Restaurant - Recommended.Great walks - Lovely local walks, and you can borrow their wellies.Lively - Hip and happening.Romantic - Good for couples.Recommended by - I Escape, Mr & Mrs Smith, SawdaysCheck AvailabilityPopular, luxurious and imaginatively decorated converted inn - of which the Cotswolds abounds. Except the rooms here are super comfortable and the food exceptional. Family friendly. See More
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The Lamb Inn, Burford Burford 17 rooms from £125
Foodies - Don't miss the 2AA Rosette restaurant which serves fantastic seasonal British cuisineGreat walks - Combine a walk through this typical Cotswolds town with a traditional cream tea.Sights nearby - The university town of Oxford is 20 miles away and well worth a visit.Birdwatching - Good birding near the hotel.Recommended by - Frommers, Good Hotel GuideCheck AvailabilityThis 18th century inn is more than just another Cotswolds B&B. Curl up with a book next to an open fire or explore the rose scented gardens. Rooms are spacious with antique oak furniture and colourful fabric. Bathrooms have original wood floors. An award winning restaurant serves seasonal cuisine. See More
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The Waterside Inn Maidenhead 11 rooms from £220
Restaurant - The Waterside Inn holds three Michelin stars.Restaurant with roomsTraditionalRecommended by - Good Hotel Guide, Relais & ChateauxCheck AvailabilityUltimate foodie venue with three Michelin stars, on the banks of the river Thames. Run by top chef Alain Roux (son of the late Michel Roux). Sumptuous suites and bedrooms, a destination treat. See More
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The White Horse, West Sussex Chilgrove, West Sussex 15 rooms from £150
Country Escape - Private cottage style rooms with lovely views of the green rolling hills at this country chic hotel.Local exploring - In the heart of the Sussex countryside, a good place to base yourselves to explore the area.Foodies - Known for its exquisite restaurant serving British cuisine, awarded 1 AA Rosette.Great walks - Ramble in the South Downs. There are miles of paths for walkers of all abilitiesRecommended by - Sawdays, Good Hotel GuideCheck AvailabilityCharming and cosy, AA 5 star silver ‘restaurant with rooms’ offering delicious food and contemporary B&B rooms with roll top copper baths and four-poster kingsize beds. Extra details set this apart from other B&B pubs. Suitable for walkers, families and couples. See More
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The Crown Inn, Chiddingfold Chiddingfold, Surrey 7 rooms from £110
Great walks - The South Downs, Blackdown, Leith Hill and Winkworth Arboretum provide ample scenic walking routes.Sights nearby - Jane Austen's House Museum and the immortalised town of Loxwood are both a short drive away.Full of characterRestaurant - Recommended.Recommended by - Good Hotel GuideCheck AvailabilitySat on the edge of Chiddingfold Green this charming coaching inn is a picture of English village life. Inside the 14th century building it is all exposed beams, flagstone tiles, roaring fires and four poster beds, yet with DAB radios, in room DVDs and bathroom mod-cons. The restaurant is AA rated. See More
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The Trout at Tadpole Bridge Faringdon, Oxfordshire 6 rooms from £130
Great walks - For an afternoon stroll there is Buscot Park and Gardens; for serious ramblers the Thames Path is on your doorstep.Sights nearby - The famous Blenheim Palace and William Morris' Kelmscott Manor are both nearby.Sailing - The hotel has its own river and private mooring for guests.Views - Some of the rooms have lovely river viewsRecommended by - Sawdays, Good Hotel GuideCheck AvailabilityThe Trout at Tadpole Bridge is a welcoming Inn, backing on to a rural section of the Thames with its own private mooring. Six comfortable rooms, "classic country" in style, located around a pretty courtyard away from the bustle. The AA rosette restaurant steals the show. A wonderful country treat. See More
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The Crab and Boar Chieveley, Berkshire 14 rooms from £129
Country Escape - With loads of country pursuits on the doorstep The Crab and Boar is perfect for a weekend getaway.Romantic Break - For a cheeky romantic break this is perfect. Book a hot tub room and enjoy!Restaurant - Great restaurant which prides itself on serving the best of British food from oysters to scotch eggs!Private Hot Tub - Several of the bedrooms have their own patios and outdoor hot tubsRecommended by - SawdaysCheck AvailabilityThe Crab and Boar is an historic rural pub with rooms providing contemporary countryside accommodation with comfortable, cosy interiors and a relaxing restaurant. Some rooms have a private hot tub and terrace. Plenty of country pursuits and outdoor activities nearby. For perfect weekend getaways. See More
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The Dundas Arms Kintbury,, Berkshire 8 rooms from £130
Local markets - The nearby market town of Newbury has plenty of shops selling local produce.Fishing - Fly fishing on the River Kennet is popular in the summer months.Great walks - Traverse the Ridgeway National Trail.Restaurant - Recommended.
Check AvailabilityThe Dundas Arms is a grade II listed Georgian inn on the banks of the Kennet, in picturesque Kintbury. Eight rooms are decorated in classic country house style, with feature wallpapers & luxurious bathrooms - river rooms with private terraces. Formal & pub style dining ensure something for all. See More
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The Horse Guards Inn Petworth (West Sussex) 3 rooms from £85
Country Escape - Located within the picturesque grounds of Petworth Estate this is a true country getawaySights nearby - Visit the charming National Trust property of Petworth HouseGreat walks - The South Downs boasts plenty of walking pathsFull of characterRecommended by - SawdaysCheck AvailabilityOn the outskirts of a 700-acre Petworth House, this wonderful homely inn is worth a detour just to experience its charm. Friendly staff, delicious food and a cosy atmosphere make for a thoroughly enjoyable stay - for families, couples and lone escapees. See More
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The Pheasant Shefford Woodlands, Berkshire 14 rooms from £115
Country Escape - A lovely rural spot with easy access to London, ideal for weekends away.Sights nearby - Visit Highclere Castle set in 1,000 acres of sweeping Hampshire parkland landscaped by 18th century gardener Capability Brown.Local markets - Scour the Wednesday and Saturday markets for local produce in the historical town of Malborough.Great walks - Take long walks through the North Wessex Downs, declared an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Check AvailabilityJust off the M4 in the North Wessex Downs, this boutique bolthole successfully serves both metropolitans and locals alike. Seasonal local produce and roaring fires make this a popular dining destination, and a stylish makeover in soft fabrics and comfy beds offers supreme comfort for overnighters. See More
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The Bell, East Sussex East Sussex 11 rooms from £100
Country Escape - An utterly charming Inn set in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.Great walks - Take long walks through the picturesque surrounding countryside.Sights nearby - Make a trip to the stunning Sissinghurst Castle Gardens.Full of character
Check AvailabilityA characterful Inn set in a beautiful area of East Sussex. Individually styled rooms are filled with antiques, artworks and playful slogans. The best feature a free standing copper bath. The atmospheric bar, very popular with locals, serves fabulous pub classics. See More
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The Kingham Plough Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire 6 rooms from £145
Great walks - If you really want to stretch your legs, take the circular walk from Kingham Station. OS Maps available.Sights nearby - Hidcote Manor Gardens, Blenheim Palace, Deddington Castle,Restaurant - All delicious including vegetarian dishes as part of the à la carte menu with gluten-free and vegan options.Local markets - Daylesford Farm Shop takes farm shops to another level.
Check AvailabilityAn award-winning traditional Cotswold pub beside the green in the beautiful village of Kingham. Spacious yet cosy rooms in soft colours with plenty of fascinating books and contemporary comforts. The restaurant has a great atmosphere and a daily changing excellent menu. See More
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The Double Red Duke Clanfield, Oxfordshire 19 rooms from £120
Country Escape - With hearty food, cosy interiors, local ales, & beautiful surrounding countryside — this is perfect for a rural weekend getawayFoodies - The Hawksmoor duo, Richard Turner and Richard Sandiford, have crafted an innovotive (and excellent) British menuFamilies - Family rooms comfortably sleep four and there is a kids' menu offered in the restaurantLocal exploring - Plenty of great walks, farmshops and Cotswolds villages to exploreRecommended by - Mr & Mrs Smith, I EscapeCheck AvailabilityA country gastropub set in a picturesque Cotswolds village. Individually styled rooms come in three sizes; each offers carefully placed, locally-sourced antiques and some boast in-room tubs. The restaurant is the real lure with superb British classics. An exceptional Cotswolds escape. See More
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The Ram Inn Lewes, East Sussex 6 rooms from £130
Country Escape - Cosy rooms, roaring fires, hearty cuisine, and good ales all within the South Downs National Park. Rural perfectionGreat walks - There's easy access to over 100 miles of walking trails along the South Down wayRestaurant - Modern British served in the restaurantMinimum Stay - Two nights at the weekend
Check AvailabilityA quaint traditional pub with a handful of comfortable rooms in the heart of the South Downs National Park. Modern British food is served in the firelit restaurant. Characterful rooms, located in the eves, have sloped beamed ceilings, whitewashed walls, and antiques. An ideal spot for a rural break. See More
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Wild Thyme & Honey Cirencester 24 rooms from £170
Romantic Break - The apartment which comes with a four-poster, a copper tub, a hot tub, and a barrel sauna is perfect for romanceCountry Escape - Set in a quientessentially pretty Cotswolds village, this is the perfect spot for a rural breakSights nearby - The surrounding area is peppered with captivating stately homes, palaces and castles with stunning gardens to visitRestaurant - The sister pub (The Crown) across the road offers seasonal pub dishes with a farm-to-fork ethos
Check AvailabilityA picture-perfect Cotswolds inn with chic boutique interiors and stand-out seasonal cuisine. Luxurious rooms are the epitome of rustic-chic with exposed stone and beams, stylish modern furniture, and indulgent wet rooms or free-standing baths. A charming rural spot suited to couples or families. See More
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Lord Poulett Arms Hinton Saint George, Somerset 6 rooms from £110
Romantic Break - A beautiful thatched cottage style exterior, cosy bedrooms and great food — perfect for a low key romantic getawayFull of character - Historic coaching and smugglers' innRestaurant - Excellent food served to locals and visitors alike championing meat and game from local producers and veggies grown on siteSights nearby - Cheddar Gorge is in one direction, Lyme Regis just 35 minutes in the other.Recommended by - Mr & Mrs SmithCheck AvailabilityThatched 1680 smugglers pub in the picturesque Somerset village of Hinton Saint George. Excellent food, popular with locals, with flagstone floors and roaring fires. Just six rooms, cosy with roll top baths, and one with bunk beds for families. See More
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The Hare and Hounds Newbury, Berkshire 30 rooms from £110
Restaurant - The restaurant is well regarded and always busy. Regularly changing menus offer brasserie/pub classicsLocal markets - The Sunday market on Northbrook street offers arts and crafts and vintage clothes, plus street food.Sights nearby - Newbury racecourse is nearby, also Highclere Castle of Downton Abbey fame.Short break - Well positioned for short breaks from London.Recommended by - Mr & Mrs SmithCheck AvailabilityRacing themed 17th century Georgian coaching inn close to the Berkshire Downs, on the edge of Newbury. A good selection of comfortable rooms in the converted stables and coach house, the best with in-room copper tubs. Excellent food and cosy bar. A good value and relaxing stay close to London. See More
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The George & Heart Margate 7 rooms from £95
Restaurant - Popular with locals, famed for their Sunday roasts. Ever evolving seasonal menus chamioning local produceQuirky - Each room is individually designed, so if you care, choose carefully!Lively - There's a lively bar scene, especially at weekends.Fishing - Sea fishing can be arranged in the port.
Reserve with I-EscapeAtmospheric and historic 18th century coaching inn in Margate Old town. Featuring seven cute (if creaky!) bedrooms, each uniquely designed, and a lively bar and restaurant. A romantic boutique haven by the seaside, overflowing with personality and excellent value for money. See More
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The Bell and Crown Warminster, Wiltshire 6 rooms from £95
Sights nearby - Stonehenge, Bruton, Stourhead, Longleat and Salisbury Cathedral are a short drive away.Restaurant - Frequently changing menu serving pub classicsGreat walks - Good for walkers.Boutique
Check AvailabilityBeautifully restored country pub just off the A303 with six rooms, simply and stylishly decorated in calming, neutral palettes. The pub oozes character and charm, with an elegant dining room and a cosy bar, with log fires in winter. A gem of a place. See More
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The Bradley Hare Warminster, Wiltshire 12 rooms from £135
Restaurant - A destination in its own right, fabulous food.Great walks - Surrounded by wonderful countryside.Short breakBoutiqueRecommended by - Mr & Mrs SmithCheck AvailabilitySet within the historic grounds of the Duke of Somerset’s estate, this traditional village pub with rooms boasts art and antiques and a cool cosy vibe curated by a Soho House designer. Fine dining, roaring fires and a lovely summer garden make it a perfect weekend getaway in beautiful countryside. See More
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The Fox Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire 8 rooms
Boutique - A Carole Bamford creation.Restaurant - Organic food from Daylesford Farms, serving artisan produce.Great walks - In the heart of the Cotswolds.Short break
Check AvailabilityFashionable pub renovation in a charming village with crackling fires, stone-flagged floors, a wood fired oven and a welcoming bar, part of the Daylesford empire. Bursting with style and character, its bedrooms are spacious, chic and super stylish, with fine linens and roll top baths. See More
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Written by James Dunford Wood
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