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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.
Expect a friendly welcome at this antique B&B above a tearoom just across from the Market Hall, where the spacious, spotless rooms have beamed ceilings and exposed stonework. Guests are greeted with a cream tea on arrival, and an excellent breakfast will set you up for the day.
True Georgian grandeur is evident in the refurbished rooms of this Palladian-style mansion, now an elegant boutique guesthouse with one of the best addresses in Bath. Great care has been taken with the decoration and furnishing of the guest rooms, all of which come with beautiful wallpapers, antique furniture, and superb bathrooms. Service is amiable and breakfasts present a wide choice of dishes.
This small independent hotel in the heart of Bath is made up of two neighboring buildings that have been combined into one single, style-focused property, where each of the 20 rooms is individually and exquisitely designed. Homemade biscuits are provided in the rooms alongside tea and coffee. The 500-year-old cellar was originally a refectory for monks worshipping at Bath Abbey; now it's an atmospheric bar open from noon until late.
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.
Delicious breakfasts, hospitable owners, and reasonable rates enhance a stay at this stone Victorian house, close to the center of town. The B&B's simple bedrooms are light and airy, with double-glazed windows to block out traffic noise. Cyclists and walkers are welcome.
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.
A warm, informal welcome greets all who stay at this Victorian establishment not too far from the Royal Crescent, where each room charms with period furniture, fresh flowers, and antique beds. Air-conditioned rooms have a fridge and complimentary sherry for evening relaxation. Leisurely breakfasts are encouraged; choose from scones, yogurts, and savory omelets. All the food is organic and vegetarian, and vegans and those with special diets will find their needs amply supplied.
If the rose garden, trout-filled pond, and sheep on the hill at this 18th-century golden-stone Queen Anne house aren't appealing enough, then the stone-flagged floors, leather sofas, and grandfather clocks of this plush B&B should satisfy. Booking ahead is essential to secure one of the three beautiful, traditional-style pastel bedrooms. Ask about discounted midweek and weekend packages. It's 1 mile from Broadway on Snowshill Road.
Beyond the traditional Cotswold stone exterior of this former coaching inn—now a bed-and-breakfast—are three unfussy, spacious bedrooms done in soothing white and pale colors. Beds are super comfortable, with feather toppers on the mattresses. The inglenook fireplace is a draw in winter, and wholesome breakfasts include fruit salads and omelets.
Right on the main drag, this 16th-century cottage has authentic period charm and is strewn with antique knickknacks like a brass wind-up gramophone. The best feature is the lovely flagstone lounge with its inglenook fireplace; breakfast (including fruit smoothies and homemade breads) is served here. Rooms are clean and comfortable, and the immaculate garden has a grill for the use of guests.
