3 Best Hotels in Bath and the Cotswolds, England

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The hotels of this region are among Britain's most highly rated—from bed-and-breakfasts in village homes and farmhouses to luxurious country-house hotels. Many hotels present themselves as deeply traditional rural retreats, but some have opted for a sleeker, fresher style, with boldly contemporary or minimalist furnishings. Spas are becoming increasingly popular at these hotels. Book ahead whenever possible and brace yourself for some high prices. B&Bs are a cheaper alternative to the fancier hotels, and most places offer two- and three-day packages. Note that the majority of lodgings in Bath and many in the Cotswolds require a two-night minimum stay on weekends and holidays; rates are often higher on weekends. Accommodation in Cheltenham and the Cotswolds is especially hard to find during the week of Cheltenham's National Hunt Festival in March.

There are numerous possibilities for renting a cottage in and around Bath and the Cotswolds, and accommodations are usually available by the week. Check out Manor Cottages or Jigsaw Holidays for a range of self-catering options.

Calcot & Spa

$$$ | A4135, Tetbury, GL8 8YJ, England Fodor's Choice

In an ideal world everyone would sojourn in this oasis of opulence at least once; however, the luxury never gets in the way of the overall air of relaxation, a tribute to the warmth and efficiency of the staff. A quintessential country-house hotel, it's also family-friendly, with a high-tech children's play area as well as a luxurious spa. The modern guest rooms are spacious and quiet; family suites have refrigerators and either bunk beds or singles in a separate room. Dishes at the elegant Brasserie are a blend of traditional and modern elements, whereas the Hive is a relaxing café. The hotel is 3 miles west of town.

Pros

  • Delightful rural setting
  • Excellent spa and gym facilities
  • Children love it

Cons

  • All but 12 rooms are separate from main building
  • Some traffic noise
  • Steep prices
A4135, Tetbury, GL8 8YJ, England
01666-890391
Hotel Details
35 rooms
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

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Inn for All Seasons

$ | A40, Burford, OX18 4TN, England

This 16th-century coaching inn provides simple but comfortable rooms and a warm welcome in its main building and the News Coach House. It's a better value than other options in Burford, and a popular spot for those with children and dogs. The restaurant is open to guests and non-guests alike and serves a short but well-considered menu of British favorites.

Pros

  • Coach house rooms have direct garden access, useful for those with dogs
  • Good value for the area
  • Nice garden

Cons

  • Located on busy road
  • Some rooms have sloped ceilings
  • Restaurant menu a bit limited
A40, Burford, OX18 4TN, England
01451-844324
Hotel Details
12 rooms
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $

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King's Arms

$ | The Street, GL9 1DT, England

A short drive from Tetbury in a small hamlet, this pub and inn is a paragon of rustic chic, with cozy modern rooms furnished with big, soft beds. The ethos here is good, plain British fare and comfort, and plenty of it. With two holiday cottages supplementing the rooms above the pub, an outdoor pizza oven for the summer, and a loyal local crowd, you may have to fight for the chairs nearest the fireplace.

Pros

  • Excellent food
  • Vintage charm
  • Comfortable rooms and public spaces

Cons

  • Decor is a little dark
  • Out of the way
  • Bathrooms somewhat dated
The Street, GL9 1DT, England
01454-238245
Hotel Details
6 rooms, 2 cottages
No Meals

Quick Facts

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