The Cottage in the Wood Hotel

Hotel review

High on the ridge with wide, sweeping views across the Severn Valley to the Cotswolds, The Cottage in the Wood is the place to come if you want to slow down, take time and breathe. Morning mist hangs in the folds of the hills, evenings turn the light soft and golden, making it easy to see why Elgar loved spending time here. Step onto the terrace with a glass of something cold and you’re part of that same story.

The rooms (spread throughout the Main House, Coach House, Beech house), boast contemporary design without forgetting their Georgian heritage. There are also two self-catering options, The Chapel and The Studio. Dogs are welcome in the ground floor rooms of the coach house and in both guest houses and on the terrace, but are not allowed in the main house, reception or bar areas. You can expect a tasteful blend of modern art, statement colours, luxurious furnishings and antiques. Pick one with a balcony or terrace if you can as the views are breathatking. Waking up to these views are a real treat, and you’re on the hill paths within minutes after breakfast if you fancy earning lunch.

Food is a highlight. In restaurant 1919, Head Chef Mark Potts cooks with confidence and clarity. His seven course tasting menu is a highlight; dishes are thoughtful, seasonal with clean flavours and no fuss. Pacing is spot on too, service is relaxed, and the room feels calm even when it’s busy. The liquorice fudge is quite exquisite and the perfect finishing touch! Open Thursday, Friday and Saturday for evening meals only.

For something more informal, head to the Brasserie, open every day for breakfast and supper and lunch Wednesday to Sunday, which serves, simple, delicious food including daily specials; ask Olivia what’s good and let the team guide you. Olivia looks after the floor with real charm, quick to remember a face and steer you to the right dish. A leisurely Afternoon Tea looking across the valley after a long hike has never felt so good.

The Daily Mail reckons that the Cottage in the Wood Hotel has "the best view in England", and rightly so as it gazes out over the Severn Valley from its plateau in the Malvern hills. 

Come to The Cottage in the Wood for the views and Mark Potts’ cooking. Stay for the slow place, the walks and the nature. This is Malvern at its best, with Elgar in your ear and the valley at your feet.

Lulu Townsend