2 Best Hotels in The Southeast, England

In the heart of Tunbridge Wells, this stylish boutique hotel perfectly situated between the café-filled Pantiles and the shop-lined High Street is a luxurious and intimate place to stay, with spacious and contemporary guest rooms. Expect chic design in muted colors and natural woods, exceptionally comfortable king or super-king beds, and modern bathrooms with rainfall showers (and, in larger rooms, baths). The brasserie restaurant is excellent—try the incredible garlic and chilli king prawns flambé —and a bright, art-filled bar and snug serves traditional afternoon teas and evening drinks. Everything else you could possibly need is right on your doorstep. Larger groups should consider booking the self-catering townhouse, while sleeps up to eight in four double bedrooms.

Located 15 miles southwest of East Grinstead (and within east reach of Arundel, Brighton, and Lewes), this spectacular country estate is the region's most luxurious stay, set within 92 acres of Sussex countryside and including a small vineyard, woodland walk, kitchen garden, and rockery. Still, it's what inside the hotel that counts. The beautifully appointed bedrooms, suites, and lakeside lodges are individually designed to combine heritage features with modern comfort, and there are wide-ranging dining options in the three excellent restaurants—including the Michelin-starred Ben Wilkinson at The Pass—along with the billiard bar and garden terrace. Perhaps the highlight, however, is the state-of-the-art spa, with an indoor pool and a natural outdoor swimming lake, as well as a scented sauna and salt steam room. Breakfast is served in the elegant Camellia, or you can eat in the spa restaurant Botanica, which has many vegetarian and vegan options. South Lodge is also an excellent family retreat, with extras for young children including a tent and books in the room, activity trails through the gardens (with prizes), and designated swimming times.