These are the Royal Mail Christmas last posting dates for 2024

royal mail release christmas last posting dates for 2022 but urge people to post early
The Royal Mail last Christmas posting dates Adam Webb - Getty Images

If you want to make sure your festive post gets to its destination in time for Christmas, the Royal Mail last Christmas posting dates for 2024 for the UK are coming up this week.

While it's always best to try and send Christmas cards and gifts as early as possible, particularly for International deliveries, here are the absolute last dates you can attempt to deliver post and still be in with a chance of it arriving in time.

london classic red mailbox  under the falling snow, uk
Alexey Fedorenko - Getty Images

Last Christmas posting dates for 2024

This year, the last day for posting a 2nd Class delivery in the UK is Wednesday 18th December. For first class mail in the UK, it's Friday 20th December. Most of the final dates for posting International Economy have already passed but you still have time for an International Standard delivery if you are quick.

UK SERVICE 2024

  • Wednesday 18th December for Second Class mail, including signed-for

  • Friday 20th December for First Class mail

  • Friday 20th December for Royal Mail Tracked 48

  • Saturday 21st December for Royal Mail Tracked 24

  • Monday 23rd December for Special Delivery Guaranteed

INTERNATIONAL ECONOMY 2024

All the latest recommended posting dates for International Economy mail for Christmas 2024 are:

  • Wednesday 9th October – All non-European destinations (except South Africa, Canada, Middle and Far East, USA)

  • Monday 21st October – Middle and Far East, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Africa

  • Wednesday 6th November – Canada and USA

  • Monday 2nd December – Cyprus, Eastern Europe, Greece, Iceland, Malta, Turkey and Western Europe

INTERNATIONAL TRACKING AND SIGNATURE SERVICES 2024

The International Standard & International tracking and signature services for Christmas 2024 are:

  • Saturday 7th December — Australia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Finland, Greece, Israel, Italy, Malta, Mexico, Norway, Portugal, Romania and Sweden

  • Monday 9th December — Czech Republic, Malaysia, New Zealand, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Turkey and United Arab Emirates (UAE)

  • Wednesday 11th December — Austria, Denmark, India, Lithuania, Philippines, Qatar, Slovakia and Slovenia

  • Friday 13th December — Belgium, Canada, China (People’s Republic), Croatia, Estonia, Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, Luxembourg, South Korea, Thailand and USA

  • Monday 16th December — France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Japan, Netherlands, Pakistan, Russia, Singapore, Switzerland and Taiwan

INTERNATIONAL STANDARD (UNTRACKED)

  • Tuesday 3rd December — Africa, Asia, Australia, Caribbean, Central and South America, China (People’s Republic), Far and Middle East and New Zealand

  • Wednesday 4th December — Cyprus, Malta, Portugal and Spain

  • Thursday 5th December — Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Eastern Europe (except Czech Republic and Poland), France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Slovakia, Switzerland and Turkey

  • Friday 6th December — Canada, Czech Republic, Finland, Italy, Poland, Sweden and USA

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Le Manoir, Oxfordshire

Photo credit: Le Manoir
Photo credit: Le Manoir

As you approach Le Manoir along its long, lavender-lined path, you'll soon realise you're checking in at a truly special hotel. On the grounds of this picturesque English estate, Raymond Blanc has created a beautiful blend of eccentric French and British flourishes, evident in the quirky décor as well as the Michelin-starred food.

The grounds here are sublime, with acres of orchards, wildflower meadows, natural spring ponds, and a zen Japanese tea garden to enjoy. But the real highlight is the excellent herb and vegetable gardens which provide the kitchen with organic produce which the chefs soon rustle up into award-winning dishes.

The hotel offer: Stay for one night at Le Manoir from £685 per person and enjoy a welcome glass of Champagne on arrival, a seven-course dinner, breakfast in L'Orangerie or in your room, and a guided tour of the 11 gardens and orchards with a senior gardener, as well as a limited edition bag with Le Manoir treats.

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Amberley Castle, Sussex

Photo credit: Various
Photo credit: Various

Dating back to the 12th century, Amberley Castle is surrounded by an 18-metre-high curtain wall, featuring medieval interiors and romantically lit bedrooms. The croquet lawn, tennis courts and an 18-hole putting course provide plenty to keep you busy, and the restaurant, regarded as one of the best in Sussex, is in an atmospheric barrel-vaulted room, serving a superb fine-dining menu.

COUNTRY LIVING OFFER

Enjoy two nights’ B&B at Amberley Castle, including a three-course à la carte dinner on the first evening, full afternoon tea on your first full day, and a morning newspaper to your room each morning. From £233pp*.

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Bodmin Jail Hotel, Cornwall

Photo credit: Matthew Shaw/Bodmin Jail Hotel
Photo credit: Matthew Shaw/Bodmin Jail Hotel

When it was built on the edge of Bodmin Moor in 1779, with its high-tech hot running water and individual cells, the Bodmin Jail Hotel was at the cutting edge of prisons. Now, almost 100 years after its doors banged shut for good, it's been reborn as a stylish hotel.

And with the Camel Trail nearby and Padstow a bike ride away, it's perfectly located to explore all of Cornwall’s natural beauty.

The hotel offer: You'll have plenty of time to make the most of the great location with two nights in an Executive King room, saving 25% on the usual rate. Enjoy a Cornish cooked breakfast on both mornings and a three-course dining experience in the fine-dining Chapel Restaurant on both evenings. From £293 per person.

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Langstone Quays, Chichester

Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel
Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel

Escape to Hayling Island in the Chichester Harbour Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for a serene short stay by the water’s edge. The beautiful surrounding scenery is showcased throughout, from the picture windows in the guestrooms to the restaurant that overlooks the harbour.

If your tipple of choice is gin or whiskey, you’re in luck, since the hotel stocks more than 100 types. As well as boat trips and coastal walks, you can visit Chichester to see its cathedral, which dates back to 1075, or catch an exhibition at Pallant House Gallery.

The hotel offer:
Book a two-night stay in a Superior Room from £130 per person, which includes a full English breakfast in bed, dinner on the first night, a bottle of prosecco and a late check out (1pm).

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The Belsfield, Lake District

Photo credit: The Belsfield
Photo credit: The Belsfield

Lake Windermere is surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery of mountains, parkland, woodland and forest, and is dotted with 18 peaceful islands. On the shores of the lake stands The Belsfield, an elegant four-star hotel with stylishly decorated bedrooms. It's a great base for exploring Bowness-on-Windermere and the delights of the wider Lake District.

After a day of exploring the area you can unwind in the Belsfield Restaurant and Brasserie, where there's a carefully crafted menu to pick from, with an excellent selection of classic British dishes like local beer-battered haddock and braised shoulder of lamb.

The hotel offer: Enjoy one night at The Belsfield from £112.50 per person. You'll be treated to a welcome drink on arrival, a full English breakfast, a three-course a la carte dinner, a Lake Windermere cruise for two, 20 per cent off wines by the bottle, and a late check out at noon.

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The Ship Inn, North Norfolk

Photo credit: J-Ph BAUDEY     fayditphotography.com
Photo credit: J-Ph BAUDEY fayditphotography.com

Perched above the golden sands and colourful beach huts of Mundesley Beach on the North Norfolk coast and with glorious panoramic sea views, The Ship Inn is the perfect seaside escape. This dog-friendly hotel is in an excellent position to experience the beautiful walking routes in the surrounding Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Expect your nights here to be extremely cosy, with luxurious flourishes in the bedrooms like 400-thread Egyptian cotton sheets and goose-down feather duvets. Food is a real highlight here, with gastro-pub fare like fish and chips and signature pie and mash served in the hotel's Beachside Restaurant. If you are blessed with good weather, you can dine in the hotel’s beer garden while enjoying the sea views.

The hotel offer: Enjoy a two-night stay from £199 per person, with a welcome drink, breakfast both mornings, and £25 per person to spend in the hotel's Beachside Restaurant. You can also bring your dog for free as part of the offer.

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Gidleigh Park, Devon

Photo credit: Various
Photo credit: Various

Set within more than 100 acres of private woodland in the Dartmoor National Park, Gidleigh Park is one of the UK's most luxurious country house hotels. The Tudor-style building features open fires, wood-panelled walls and wonderful antiques, while the award-winning restaurant serves a locally-sourced menu, created by executive head chef Chris Simpson.

COUNTRY LIVING OFFER

Stay for two nights at Gidleigh Park and enjoy a full English breakfast, a three-course à la carte dinner on the first evening, full afternoon tea on your first full day, and a morning newspaper to your room each morning. From £325pp*.

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Rick Stein's St Petroc's, Cornwall

Photo credit: Milly Fletcher
Photo credit: Milly Fletcher

The renowned chef Rick Stein has played a huge part in Cornwall’s gastronomy scene for the past few decades, famously running several restaurants in Padstow. He and his wife Jill opened their first outpost, the Seafood Restaurant, in the town almost 50 years ago and it’s as popular as ever today.

At St Petroc’s, there are 10 bedrooms for a handful of lucky guests to stay over for a food-focused seaside break. Sights nearby include Rock, Daymer Bay (ideal for kite- and windsurfing) and various scenic coves. Your furry friend might not be as discerning as you when it comes to food, but St Petroc’s is pet-friendly, so they’ll be welcome to come along too.

The hotel offer: Spend two nights at in a Cosy room at St Petroc’s (upgrades are available) and enjoy the full foodie experience: a three-course set lunch with a glass of Champagne in the Seafood Restaurant and a three-course à la carte dinner at St Petroc’s Bistro. You’ll also be able to savour a bottle of Rick Stein’s Spanish wine with some cheese and charcuterie at Ruby’s bar. Continue the culinary adventure after check-out – a signed copy of the star chef’s newest book Food Stories will be in your room on arrival ready to take home.

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The Petwood, Lincolnshire

Photo credit: Petwood Hotel
Photo credit: Petwood Hotel

This historic hotel has become known as one of Lincolnshire's best foodie stays with the hotel chefs serving up mouth-watering dishes using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The Petwood has a rich and fascinating history – the building was once home to the RAF’s most famous squadron, The Dambusters.

The building’s heritage is reflected throughout the hotel, like in the cosy Squadron Bar, where you can dine surrounded by RAF memorabilia. The hotel also has acres of gorgeous gardens and woods to explore, and most of the rooms offer wonderful views across the surrounding greenery.

The hotel offer: Enjoy an overnight stay at The Petwood from £162.50 per person in an Executive Room with a full English breakfast, a seven-course tasting menu in the Squadron Room with a personal greeting from the chef, a pre-dinner drink, late check out and early check in.

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Richmond Hill Hotel, London

Photo credit: Geoffrey Arrowsmith
Photo credit: Geoffrey Arrowsmith

It may be close to the heart of the capital, but Richmond is home to London’s biggest Royal Park – and with a stay at Richmond Hill Hotel you’ll feel like you’re in the countryside but with all the bright lights of the city on hand, too. The hotel is in a Georgian townhouse that was refurbished a few years ago, with modern additions such as under-floor heating, smart televisions and Heal’s beds ensuring 21st-century comfort.

From this bucolic base, you can go in search of the park’s famous deer, stroll along the banks of the Thames or head to Kew Gardens. And to get to Waterloo, it’s just a 30-minute train ride.

The hotel offer: A two-night stay at Richmond Hill Hotel, from £225 per person in a Georgian Deluxe Room, with breakfast each morning, afternoon tea with a glass of champagne each on the day of arrival, a dinner allocation of £35 per person and late check out.

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The Slaughter's Manor House, Gloucestershire

Photo credit: Various
Photo credit: Various

The Slaughters Manor House sits before sweeping lawns in one of the Cotswolds' loveliest villages. An extensive refurb has created a stylish boutique bolthole offering individually-designed bedrooms, a contemporary cocktail bar and an atmospheric billiards room. The restaurant, overseen by chef Nik Chappell, serves delicious local produce.

COUNTRY LIVING OFFER

Stay for two nights at The Slaughter’s Manor House, including a three-course à la carte dinner on the first evening, full afternoon tea on your first full day, and a morning newspaper to your room each morning. From £325pp*.

BOOK NOW


The Dixon, London

Photo credit: The Dixon
Photo credit: The Dixon

You’ll be in the heart of the action at this unique hotel by London’s buzzing, creative South Bank, with major cultural attractions like the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre just up the Thames. Converted from a former magistrates’ court, the hotel’s atmospheric bar is set inside the wood-panelled former courtroom, with staff shaking cocktails in the same spot the judges used to sit.

The rooms are colourful and contemporary, while the on-trend hotel restaurant, Provisioners, roasts its own coffee.

The hotel offer: During your two-night stay, you'll receive a complimentary upgrade to a Superior room and be welcomed with a bottle of Prosecco, as well as enjoying a full cooked or continental breakfast each morning in Provisioners. From £429 per person for two nights.

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The Belsfield, Lake District

Photo credit: The Belsfield
Photo credit: The Belsfield

Lake Windermere is surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery of mountains, parkland, woodland and forest, and is dotted with 18 peaceful islands. On the shores of the lake stands The Belsfield, an elegant four-star hotel with stylishly decorated bedrooms. It's a great base for exploring Bowness-on-Windermere and the delights of the wider Lake District.

After a day of exploring the area you can unwind in the Belsfield Restaurant and Brasserie, where there's a carefully crafted menu to pick from, with an excellent selection of classic British dishes like local beer-battered haddock and braised shoulder of lamb.

The hotel offer: Enjoy one night at The Belsfield from £107.50 per person. You'll be treated to a welcome drink on arrival, a full English breakfast, a three-course a la carte dinner, a Lake Windermere cruise for two, 20 per cent off wines by the bottle, and a late check out at noon.

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Ragdale Hall, Leicestershire

Photo credit: Ragdale Hall
Photo credit: Ragdale Hall

Ragdale Hall is a sumptuous country pile in the Leicestershire countryside and is the ideal escape if you’re looking for state-of-the-art wellness facilities. This beautiful manor house has a rooftop infinity pool where you can kick back and soak in the gorgeous views of the rural surroundings.

There is also a wide selection of wellness treatments available so you can be sure you’ll be leaving feeling rejuvenated.

The hotel offer: Save up to 35% on a blissful two-night spa break at Ragdale Hall, which includes two 40-minute spa treatments, full use of spa facilities including the Rooftop Infinity Pool, a Clarins skin consultation and gift for each guest, and all meals throughout your stay. From £582 per person.

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Ragdale Hall, Leicestershire

Photo credit: Ragdale Hall
Photo credit: Ragdale Hall

Ragdale Hall is a sumptuous country pile in the Leicestershire countryside and is the ideal escape if you’re looking for state-of-the-art wellness facilities. This beautiful manor house has a rooftop infinity pool where you can kick back and soak in the gorgeous views of the rural surroundings.

There is also a wide selection of wellness treatments available so you can be sure you’ll be leaving feeling rejuvenated.

The hotel offer: Save up to 35% on a blissful two-night spa break at Ragdale Hall, which includes two 40-minute spa treatments, full use of spa facilities including the Rooftop Infinity Pool, a Clarins skin consultation and gift for each guest, and all meals throughout your stay. From £555 per person.

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Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Oxfordshire

Photo credit: Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons
Photo credit: Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons

The traditional creeper-covered Belmond Le Manoir is one of the UK’s most luxurious hotels. Nestled in the Oxfordshire countryside, the hotel is surrounded by glorious countryside, as well as its own manicured grounds, complete with a sprawling kitchen garden. The guestrooms are individually decorated, with nods to chef-patron Raymond Blanc’s extensive travels, but the real star of the show is the two Michelin-starred restaurant.

COUNTRY LIVING OFFER

Enjoy one night’s B&B accommodation, including a delicious dinner from any of Raymond Blanc’s menus. Plus you’ll received half a bottle of Champagne to celebrate and a signed copy of Raymond’s book A Taste of My Life. From £538pp*.

BOOK NOW


Rick Stein's Shepherds' Huts, Cornwall

Photo credit: Rick Stein Shepherds Huts/Rebecca Hope
Photo credit: Rick Stein Shepherds Huts/Rebecca Hope

For a truly unique seaside getaway, head down to lovely St Merryn near Padstow, Cornwall, where you'll find six cosy shepherd's huts nestled in the grounds of Rick Stein's pub, The Cornish Arms.

Each hut has a bright living area, an en-suite shower room, a kitchenette, and a private patio. With underfloor heating and a double bed with beautifully crisp linen, you can be sure of a snug night's sleep. You'll be moments from some of Cornwall's best beaches like Harlyn Bay and Constantine Bay, where you can head down for a morning dip or watch the sunset.

The hotel offer:
Enjoy a two-night stay in a luxury Shepherd's Hut from £245 per person. Included is a three-course meal at The Cornish Arms, a breakfast hamper, an upgraded breakfast in Rick Stein's Seafood Restaurant, a bottle of Rick Stein Chateau Bauduc Rosé, a signed copy of Rick's latest cookery book, and a Stein's Deli picnic hamper to enjoy on the beach.

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The Petwood, Lincolnshire

Photo credit: Petwood Hotel
Photo credit: Petwood Hotel

This historic hotel has become known as one of Lincolnshire's best foodie stays with the hotel chefs serving up mouth-watering dishes using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The Petwood has a rich and fascinating history – the building was once home to the RAF’s most famous squadron, The Dambusters.

The building’s heritage is reflected throughout the hotel, like in the cosy Squadron Bar, where you can dine surrounded by RAF memorabilia. The hotel also has acres of gorgeous gardens and woods to explore, and most of the rooms offer wonderful views across the surrounding greenery.

The hotel offer: Enjoy an overnight stay at The Petwood from £162.50 per person in an Executive Room with a full English breakfast, a seven-course tasting menu in the Squadron Room with a personal greeting from the chef, a pre-dinner drink, late check out and early check in.

FIND OUT MORE


Richmond Hill Hotel, London

Photo credit: Geoffrey Arrowsmith
Photo credit: Geoffrey Arrowsmith

It may be close to the heart of the capital, but Richmond is home to London’s biggest Royal Park – and with a stay at Richmond Hill Hotel you’ll feel like you’re in the countryside but with all the bright lights of the city on hand, too. The hotel is in a Georgian townhouse that was refurbished a few years ago, with modern additions such as under-floor heating, smart televisions and Heal’s beds ensuring 21st-century comfort.

From this bucolic base, you can go in search of the park’s famous deer, stroll along the banks of the Thames or head to Kew Gardens. And to get to Waterloo, it’s just a 30-minute train ride.

The hotel offer: A two-night stay at Richmond Hill Hotel, from £235 per person in a Georgian Deluxe Room, with breakfast each morning, afternoon tea with a glass of champagne each on the day of arrival, a dinner allocation of £35 per person and late check out.

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Ragdale Hall, Leicestershire

Photo credit: Ragdale Hall
Photo credit: Ragdale Hall

Ragdale Hall is a sumptuous country pile in the Leicestershire countryside and is the ideal escape if you’re looking for state-of-the-art wellness facilities. This beautiful manor house has a rooftop infinity pool where you can kick back and soak in the gorgeous views of the rural surroundings.

There is also a wide selection of wellness treatments available so you can be sure you’ll be leaving feeling rejuvenated.

The hotel offer: Save up to 35% on a blissful two-night spa break at Ragdale Hall, which includes two 40-minute spa treatments, full use of spa facilities including the Rooftop Infinity Pool, a Clarins skin consultation and gift for each guest, and all meals throughout your stay. From £555 per person.

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Mosborough Hall Hotel, South Yorkshire

Photo credit: www.mkiphoto.com/Courtesy of the hotel
Photo credit: www.mkiphoto.com/Courtesy of the hotel

Take a trip to the stunning South Yorkshire countryside with a stay at Mosborough Hall Hotel. This 12th-century manor house is only a short drive from Sheffield, so you can combine the buzz of this friendly city with the tranquillity and wonderful landscapes of the Peak District.

There are also several stately homes with beautiful landscaped grounds within easy reach of the hotel, including Haddon Hall, Tissington Hall and the famous Chatsworth Estate. If you’d prefer to simply relax at the hotel you could enjoy a delicious afternoon tea before taking a walk in the delightful surrounding gardens.

The hotel offer: Enjoy a two-night stay at Mosborough Hall from £129 per person with breakfast on both mornings, a two-course dinner on your first night, afternoon tea on the second day and a free stay for dogs.

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Richmond Hill Hotel, London

Photo credit: Geoffrey Arrowsmith
Photo credit: Geoffrey Arrowsmith

It may be close to the heart of the capital, but Richmond is home to London’s biggest Royal Park – and with a stay at Richmond Hill Hotel you’ll feel like you’re in the countryside but with all the bright lights of the city on hand, too. The hotel is in a Georgian townhouse that was refurbished a few years ago, with modern additions such as under-floor heating, smart televisions and Heal’s beds ensuring 21st-century comfort.

From this bucolic base, you can go in search of the park’s famous deer, stroll along the banks of the Thames or head to Kew Gardens. And to get to Waterloo, it’s just a 30-minute train ride.

The hotel offer: A two-night stay at Richmond Hill Hotel, from £225 per person in a Georgian Deluxe Room, with breakfast each morning, afternoon tea with a glass of champagne each on the day of arrival, a dinner allocation of £35 per person and late check out.

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Chewton Glen, Hampshire

Photo credit: Chewton Glen
Photo credit: Chewton Glen

Sitting just outside the New Forest, Chewton Glen is the ideal countryside retreat. The picture-perfect manor house conceals a collection of comfortable bedrooms, many of which overlook the hotel’s beautiful grounds. There’s no danger of getting bored at this five-star bolthole, with tennis courts, a croquet lawn, golf-course and archery equipment at your disposal. Many stay for the award-winning spa, complete with an enormous swimming pool, heated hot tubs and crystal steam rooms.

COUNTRY LIVING OFFER

Enjoy one night’s B&B accommodation in a Garden Room, including a 25-minute massage or facial and a Chewton Glen spa gift. From £185pp*.

BOOK NOW


Twr y Felin, St Davids

Photo credit: Twr y Felin
Photo credit: Twr y Felin

Immerse yourself in contemporary luxury at this striking design hotel on the outskirts of St Davids, converted from an old windmill dating back to 1806, and now filled with modern art showcasing the picturesque local scenery, plus sleek and stylish bedrooms. With our exclusive offer, you'll stay in an Oriel Spacious Room, meaning you’ll have the added space of a Juliet balcony or a ground-floor terrace and enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding countryside and, in the distance, St Brides Bay.

You’ll also dine in the two-AA Rosette Blas restaurant, serving imaginative dishes created from Welsh produce.

The hotel offer: Save 18% on a two-night stay in an Oriel Spacious Room, with dinner on both nights, breakfast each morning, a bottle of Prosecco and a selection box of 16 luxurious handmade Trwffl chocolates in your room, and a free coffee table art book from the Pebidiog Trilogy. From £360 per person for two nights.

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Golf View Hotel, Nairn

Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel
Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel

For some fresh sea air, book a stay at this hotel in the ancient fishing port of Nairn, which overlooks the Moray Firth. The aptly named Coast Spa has an indoor pool and an outdoor hot tub, and treatments by the Scottish brand Ishga – though the view is arguably tonic enough.

The restaurant champions local produce, which, in this case, includes the finest lobster, scallops and langoustines. It’s also an excellent choice for golfers, since the region has two championship courses.

The hotel offer: Enjoy a two-night stay from £385 per person, on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis, with afternoon tea including a glass of champagne (as well as a bottle of cremant on arrival), an Ishga gift worth £90 and 10% off all spa treatments, a Coorie candle and a thermal spa experience.

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Rufflets, St Andrews

Photo credit: Rufflets St Andrews
Photo credit: Rufflets St Andrews

Immerse yourself in stunning Scottish scenery at this lovely hotel in the idyllic countryside near St Andrews. At Rufflets you’ll find elegant formal gardens, a picturesque kitchen garden and sun-dappled woodlands to explore in the hotel’s expansive grounds.

You can simply curl up by the fire with a book and a wee dram of whisky, or, if you’re in the mood for exploring, head into nearby St Andrews, which is only a five-minute drive away. You’ll find plenty to keep you occupied in the town, from cute little shops to the windswept West Sands beach.

The hotel offer: Save up to 40% on standard rates with a two-night stay in a Classic Bedroom from £220 per person. You’ll also get a dinner allocation of £45 per person on your first night and a full breakfast each morning.

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Wivenhoe House, Essex

Photo credit: Wivenhoe House Hotel
Photo credit: Wivenhoe House Hotel

Escape from the Big Smoke to the sleepy atmosphere of rural Essex at Wivenhoe House, where comfy rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies await. Enjoy a peaceful afternoon tea on the lovely lawns, or head out to explore the charming quayside town of Wivenhoe, Britain’s oldest town, Colchester, and the coast and country walks nearby.

The hotel offer: Spend two nights in the highest category Luxury Room, with a five-course dinner for two, a cocktail on one evening, breakfast each morning, a chocolate treat made by the chefs in your room on arrival, and late checkout at noon. From £199 per person for two nights.

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Rick Stein's Shepherds' Huts, Cornwall

Photo credit: Rick Stein Shepherds Huts/Rebecca Hope
Photo credit: Rick Stein Shepherds Huts/Rebecca Hope

For a truly unique seaside getaway, head down to lovely St Merryn near Padstow, Cornwall, where you'll find six cosy shepherd's huts nestled in the grounds of Rick Stein's pub, The Cornish Arms.

Each hut has a bright living area, an en-suite shower room, a kitchenette, and a private patio. With underfloor heating and a double bed with beautifully crisp linen, you can be sure of a snug night's sleep. You'll be moments from some of Cornwall's best beaches like Harlyn Bay and Constantine Bay, where you can head down for a morning dip or watch the sunset.

The hotel offer:
Enjoy a two-night stay in a luxury Shepherd's Hut from £270 per person. Included is a three-course meal at The Cornish Arms, breakfast each morning, a signed copy of Rick's latest cookery book, and a bottle of Rick Stein Spanish wine.

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Forss House, Scottish Highlands

Photo credit: Forss House
Photo credit: Forss House

Escape to the Highlands with a break at the wonderful Forss House, a snug boutique hotel on the famous North Coast 500 route, making it an ideal pit stop if you're taking a scenic Scottish road trip.

There are just 14 guestrooms at the country house hotel, all decked out in homely Scottish décor with antique furnishings, as well as 400-thread Egyptian cotton sheets and luxurious goose-down duvets. The hotel is set amid 20 acres of lovely woodlands, where you can take calming walks along the riverbanks along to the sea before indulging in fine food at the excellent two AA-Rosette restaurant.

The hotel offer: Stay for two nights in a Radclyffe room from £399 per person and enjoy a tasting menu in the restaurant on the first night, a three-course menu on the second night, and a late checkout, so you can spend the morning enjoying the grounds at leisure.

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Bowden Hall, Cotswolds

Photo credit: Bowden Hall
Photo credit: Bowden Hall

Bowden Hall in leafy Gloucestershire represents English country elegance at its very best. This grand Georgian manor has 12 acres of its own parkland to enjoy during your stay — perfect for leisurely walks or simply to admire from your bedroom window. And if you want to try a longer ramble, there's the idyllic Cotswolds countryside to explore, right on the hotel's doorstep.

You can enjoy panoramic views of the heavenly surrounding landscapes from the hotel's Bar & Brasserie, where you can indulge in a wide selection of fine wines and special signature dishes from the chef's menu.

The hotel offer: Spend a relaxing night at Bowden Hall from £62.50 per person. You'll receive half a bottle of Brut Grande Reserve NV Gobillard Champagne, £26 per person towards dinner on first evening at the Bar & Brasserie at Bowden, full English breakfast daily and a late checkout at noon.

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Rufflets, St Andrews

Photo credit: Rufflets St Andrews
Photo credit: Rufflets St Andrews

Immerse yourself in stunning Scottish scenery at this lovely hotel in the idyllic countryside near St Andrews. At Rufflets you’ll find elegant formal gardens, a picturesque kitchen garden and sun-dappled woodlands to explore in the hotel’s expansive grounds.

You can simply curl up by the fire with a book and a wee dram of whisky, or, if you’re in the mood for exploring, head into nearby St Andrews, which is only a five-minute drive away. You’ll find plenty to keep you occupied in the town, from cute little shops to the windswept West Sands beach.

The hotel offer: Save up to 40% on standard rates with a two-night stay in a Classic Bedroom from £240 per person. You’ll also get a dinner allocation of £45 per person on your first night and a full breakfast each morning.

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Danesfield House, Buckinghamshire

Photo credit: Danesfield House Hotel
Photo credit: Danesfield House Hotel

If you’re looking for a hotel getaway that’s close to London but still feels decidedly rural, Danesfield House could be the perfect spot. Here, you’ll find 65 acres of magnificent gardens overlooking the River Thames and the beautiful Chiltern Hills, all just a half-hour drive from West London.

There are 55 beautiful bedrooms here, which have all been individually designed, some with traditional country house décor and others in a more modern style. Danesfield House also boasts a gem of a spa, with a Jacuzzi, 20-metre pool, poolside sauna and steam room, and a special sanctuary lounge' relaxation room.

The hotel’s pretty restaurant, The Orangery, is another highlight, where you can dine on simple but carefully executed dishes while enjoying lovely views of the Thames and the Chiltern Hills.

The hotel offer: Stay for one night at Danesfield House and enjoy a bottle of champagne, a three-course dinner in The Orangery, access to the spa, and a late checkout, from £149.50 per person.

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Summer Lodge, Dorset

Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel
Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel

In the sleepy Dorset village of Evershot and a short drive from Dorchester, this former dower house, built in 1798, offers an idyllic rural retreat for some true peace and quiet. Guests can borrow a bicycle to explore the scenic surroundings, play tennis or croquet, or head to the spa.

The cosy Whisky Bar has more than 300 varieties to work your way through, or leave your beverage selection in the safe hands of the sommelier. The restaurant, which serves the very best local produce, is the star of the show.

The hotel offer: This two-night stay in a Cosy Double costs from £395 per person, with breakfast, dinner on both evenings (plus a bottle of wine on the first night), and access to the hotel’s spa and swimming pool.

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The Charlecote Pheasant Hotel, Stratford-upon-Avon

Photo credit: The Charlecote Pheasant Hotel
Photo credit: The Charlecote Pheasant Hotel

This former farmhouse is in the heart of Shakespeare Country and has plenty of rural charm, with its own landscaped gardens, exquisite period furnishings and exposed wooden beams. The rooms are set in the former Farmhouse and Hayloft and provide a lovely, restful space with modern comforts.

Stratford-upon-Avon is just a 15-minute drive away, where you can visit Anne Hathaway’s cottage or treat yourself to a Royal Shakespeare Company theatre production. The National Trust's Charlecote Park is within easy reach of the hotel too. This historic house offers views across the Avon and you can spot free-roaming sheep and fallow deer in the grounds.

The hotel offer: Spend two nights at The Charlecote Pheasant from £105 per person with a complimentary room upgrade, breakfast on both mornings, a welcome drink on arrival, a three-course dinner on your first night and a late checkout.

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Rick Stein's Shepherds' Huts, Cornwall

Photo credit: Rick Stein Shepherds Huts/Rebecca Hope
Photo credit: Rick Stein Shepherds Huts/Rebecca Hope

For a truly unique seaside getaway, head down to lovely St Merryn near Padstow, Cornwall, where you'll find six cosy shepherd's huts nestled in the grounds of Rick Stein's pub, The Cornish Arms.

Each hut has a bright living area, an en-suite shower room, a kitchenette, and a private patio. With underfloor heating and a double bed with beautifully crisp linen, you can be sure of a snug night's sleep. You'll be moments from some of Cornwall's best beaches like Harlyn Bay and Constantine Bay, where you can head down for a morning dip or watch the sunset.

The hotel offer:
Enjoy a two-night stay in a luxury Shepherd's Hut from £272 per person. Included is a three-course meal at The Cornish Arms, a breakfast hamper, an upgraded breakfast in Rick Stein's Seafood Restaurant, a bottle of Rick Stein Chateau Bauduc Rosé, a signed copy of Rick's latest cookery book, and a Stein's Deli picnic hamper to enjoy on the beach.

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The Charlecote Pheasant Hotel, Stratford-upon-Avon

Photo credit: The Charlecote Pheasant Hotel
Photo credit: The Charlecote Pheasant Hotel

This former farmhouse is in the heart of Shakespeare Country and has plenty of rural charm, with its own landscaped gardens, exquisite period furnishings and exposed wooden beams. The rooms are set in the former Farmhouse and Hayloft and provide a lovely, restful space with modern comforts.

Stratford-upon-Avon is just a 15-minute drive away, where you can visit Anne Hathaway’s cottage or treat yourself to a Royal Shakespeare Company theatre production. The National Trust's Charlecote Park is within easy reach of the hotel too. This historic house offers views across the Avon and you can spot free-roaming sheep and fallow deer in the grounds.

The hotel offer: Spend two nights at The Charlecote Pheasant from £115 per person with a complimentary room upgrade, breakfast on both mornings, a welcome drink on arrival, a three-course dinner on your first night and a late checkout.

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Mallory Court, Warwickshire

Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel
Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel

Just outside Royal Leamington Spa in rural Warwickshire, Mallory Court is a Lutyens-style manor house with 10 acres of grounds and an elegant fine-dining restaurant. At the hotel’s Elan Spa, guests can book treatments by British brands Temple Spa and Gaia, enjoy a spell in its salt sauna and warm up with a view of the Warwickshire countryside at the outdoor vitality pool.

Further afield, don’t miss nearby National Trust properties Hidcote Manor, Charlecote Park and Upton House. The manor is also perfectly placed for visiting Warwick Castle, Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswolds.

The hotel offer: From £154.50 per person, enjoy a one-night stay with a full English breakfast, a five-course tasting menu in the Manor House Dining Room (worth £80 per person) and an upgrade to a Classic Room (worth £46).

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Ragdale Hall, Leicestershire

Photo credit: Ragdale Hall
Photo credit: Ragdale Hall

Ragdale Hall is a sumptuous country pile in the Leicestershire countryside and is the ideal escape if you’re looking for state-of-the-art wellness facilities. This beautiful manor house has a rooftop infinity pool where you can kick back and soak in the gorgeous views of the rural surroundings.

There is also a wide selection of wellness treatments available so you can be sure you’ll be leaving feeling rejuvenated.

The hotel offer: Save up to 35% on a blissful two-night spa break at Ragdale Hall, which includes two 40-minute spa treatments, full use of spa facilities including the Rooftop Infinity Pool, a Clarins skin consultation and gift for each guest, and all meals throughout your stay. From £555 per person.

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The Montagu Arms, New Forest

Photo credit: Montagu Arms
Photo credit: Montagu Arms

Hide away in the tranquil New Forest at this heavenly country house hotel. The Montagu Arms has a fine dining restaurant, The Terrace, where hearty dishes like dishes like Beaulieu venison and ChalkStream trout are served.

In the light and airy bedrooms, you’ll find luxurious touches, like hand-crafted beds, most of which are king sized, cotton robes and White Company toiletries. Each room is individually decorated in traditional country house style. The Montagu Arms is located in the village of Beaulieu, home to the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, with its extensive collection of cars and motorcycles. Also nearby are the colourful Exbury Gardens, with their large collections of rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias.

The hotel offer: Escape for two nights to a House Snug room from £355 per person, with dinner at The Terrace on one evening, dinner at classic British pub Monty's Inn, and a ticket to either Exbury Gardens or Beaulieu National Motor Museum.

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Mosborough Hall Hotel, South Yorkshire

Photo credit: www.mkiphoto.com/Courtesy of the hotel
Photo credit: www.mkiphoto.com/Courtesy of the hotel

Take a trip to the stunning South Yorkshire countryside with a stay at Mosborough Hall Hotel. This 12th-century manor house is only a short drive from Sheffield, so you can combine the buzz of this friendly city with the tranquillity and wonderful landscapes of the Peak District.

There are also several stately homes with beautiful landscaped grounds within easy reach of the hotel, including Haddon Hall, Tissington Hall and the famous Chatsworth Estate.If you’d prefer to simply relax at the hotel you could enjoy a delicious afternoon tea before taking a walk in the delightful surrounding gardens.

The hotel offer: Enjoy a two-night stay at Mosborough Hall from £139 per person with a Full English breakfast on both mornings, a seven-course tasting menu in Darcy’s with wine pairings on your first night, a bottle of Bradfield Brewery ale in your room on arrival and a late checkout.

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Golf View Hotel, Nairn

Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel
Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel

For some fresh sea air, book a stay at this hotel in the ancient fishing port of Nairn, which overlooks the Moray Firth. The aptly named Coast Spa has an indoor pool and an outdoor hot tub, and treatments by the Scottish brand Ishga – though the view is arguably tonic enough.

The restaurant champions local produce, which, in this case, includes the finest lobster, scallops and langoustines. It’s also an excellent choice for golfers, since the region has two championship courses.

The hotel offer: Enjoy a two-night stay from £385 per person, on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis, with afternoon tea including a glass of champagne (as well as a bottle of cremant on arrival), an Ishga gift worth £90 and 10% off all spa treatments, a Coorie candle and a thermal spa experience.

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Wivenhoe House, Essex

Photo credit: Wivenhoe House Hotel
Photo credit: Wivenhoe House Hotel

Escape from the Big Smoke to the sleepy atmosphere of rural Essex at Wivenhoe House, where comfy rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies await. Enjoy a peaceful afternoon tea on the lovely lawns, or head out to explore the charming quayside town of Wivenhoe, Britain’s oldest town, Colchester, and the coast and country walks nearby.

The hotel offer: Spend two nights in the highest category Luxury Room, with a five-course dinner for two, a cocktail on one evening, breakfast each morning, a chocolate treat made by the chefs in your room on arrival, and late checkout at noon. From £220 per person for two nights.

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Billesley Manor, Stratford-upon-Avon

Photo credit: Billesley Manor
Photo credit: Billesley Manor

One for the history lovers, this 16th-century Elizabethan manor is referenced in the Domesday Book and has an 11th-century church on its grounds where Shakespeare is said to have married Anne Hathaway.

It makes a great base for exploring Shakespeare Country, located just minutes from Stratford-upon-Avon, where you can visit the Bard’s schoolroom, his birthplace, or see one of his plays performed at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. After a busy day of exploring, recharge your batteries in Billesley Manor’s excellent spa, where you can lounge around in fluffy robes and relax in the pool, sauna and steam room, and enjoy dinner in The Stuart Restaurant, the hotel's wood-panelled Elizabethan dining room.

The hotel offer: Spend one night at Billesley Manor from £94.50 per person, including dinner on the first evening of your stay, a Full English breakfast daily, a complimentary bottle of house wine, and full use of the spa.

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Summer Lodge, Dorset

Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel
Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel

In the sleepy Dorset village of Evershot and a short drive from Dorchester, this former dower house, built in 1798, offers an idyllic rural retreat for some true peace and quiet. Guests can borrow a bicycle to explore the scenic surroundings, play tennis or croquet, or head to the spa.

The cosy Whisky Bar has more than 300 varieties to work your way through, or leave your beverage selection in the safe hands of the sommelier. The restaurant, which serves the very best local produce, is the star of the show.

The hotel offer: This two-night stay in a Cosy Double costs from £390 per person, with breakfast, dinner on both evenings (plus a bottle of wine on the first night), and access to the hotel’s spa and swimming pool.

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Bowden Hall, Cotswolds

Photo credit: Bowden Hall
Photo credit: Bowden Hall

Bowden Hall in leafy Gloucestershire represents English country elegance at its very best. This grand Georgian manor has 12 acres of its own parkland to enjoy during your stay — perfect for leisurely walks or simply to admire from your bedroom window. And if you want to try a longer ramble, there's the idyllic Cotswolds countryside to explore, right on the hotel's doorstep.

You can enjoy panoramic views of the heavenly surrounding landscapes from the hotel's Bar & Brasserie, where you can indulge in a wide selection of fine wines and special signature dishes from the chef's menu.

The hotel offer: Spend a relaxing night at Bowden Hall from £87.50 per person. You'll receive half a bottle of Brut Grande Reserve NV Gobillard Champagne, £26 per person towards dinner on first evening at the Bar & Brasserie at Bowden, full English breakfast daily and a late checkout at noon.

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Loch Fyne Hotel, Inveraray

Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel
Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel

On the shores of Loch Fyne and surrounded by spectacular Scottish countryside, this hotel is close to the town of Inveraray and its namesake castle. More incredible scenery awaits if you head to the nearby Trossachs National Park, home to Loch Lomond. Don’t forget to keep watch for red squirrels on your walks through woodlands or along the shores of the area’s beautiful lochs.

The restaurant, which has a wonderful view of the water, showcases the local bounty, with Scottish scallops and Atlantic cod just some of the highlights.

The hotel offer: From £390 per person for this two-night stay, you’ll enjoy dinner, bed and breakfast, plus afternoon tea with a glass of champagne (as well as a bottle of cremant on arrival), an Ishga gift worth £90 and 10% off all spa treatments, a Coorie candle and a thermal spa experience.

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Summer Lodge, Dorset

Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel
Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel

In the sleepy Dorset village of Evershot and a short drive from Dorchester, this former dower house, built in 1798, offers an idyllic rural retreat for some true peace and quiet. Guests can borrow a bicycle to explore the scenic surroundings, play tennis or croquet, or head to the spa.

The cosy Whisky Bar has more than 300 varieties to work your way through, or leave your beverage selection in the safe hands of the sommelier. The restaurant, which serves the very best local produce, is the star of the show.

The hotel offer: This two-night stay in a Cosy Double costs from £390 per person, with breakfast, dinner on both evenings (plus a bottle of wine on the first night), and access to the hotel’s spa and swimming pool.

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Danesfield House, Buckinghamshire

Photo credit: Danesfield House Hotel
Photo credit: Danesfield House Hotel

If you’re looking for a hotel getaway that’s close to London but still feels decidedly rural, Danesfield House could be the perfect spot. Here, you’ll find 65 acres of magnificent gardens overlooking the River Thames and the beautiful Chiltern Hills, all just a half-hour drive from West London.

There are 55 beautiful bedrooms here, which have all been individually designed, some with traditional country house décor and others in a more modern style. Danesfield House also boasts a gem of a spa, with a Jacuzzi, 20-metre pool, poolside sauna and steam room, and a special sanctuary lounge' relaxation room.

The hotel’s pretty restaurant, The Orangery, is another highlight, where you can dine on simple but carefully executed dishes while enjoying lovely views of the Thames and the Chiltern Hills.

The hotel offer: Stay for one night at Danesfield House and enjoy a bottle of champagne, a three-course dinner in The Orangery, access to the spa, and a late checkout, from £137.50 per person.

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Mosborough Hall Hotel, South Yorkshire

Photo credit: www.mkiphoto.com/Courtesy of the hotel
Photo credit: www.mkiphoto.com/Courtesy of the hotel

Take a trip to the stunning South Yorkshire countryside with a stay at Mosborough Hall Hotel. This 12th-century manor house is only a short drive from Sheffield, so you can combine the buzz of this friendly city with the tranquillity and wonderful landscapes of the Peak District.

There are also several stately homes with beautiful landscaped grounds within easy reach of the hotel, including Haddon Hall, Tissington Hall and the famous Chatsworth Estate. If you’d prefer to simply relax at the hotel you could enjoy a delicious afternoon tea before taking a walk in the delightful surrounding gardens.

The hotel offer: Enjoy a two-night stay at Mosborough Hall from £114.50 per person with a Full English breakfast on both mornings, a three-course dinner with wine pairings, a free stay for dogs and late checkout.

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Widbrook Grange, The Cotswolds

Photo credit: Widbrook Grange
Photo credit: Widbrook Grange

Wisteria-clad and made from Cotswold stone, Widbrook Grange oozes English country charm. This grand farmhouse sits on the edge of the Cotswolds near Bradford on Avon and has 19 boutique bedrooms located between the converted stable and the annexes around the main farmhouse.

Whichever room you check in to, you'll find elegant décor influenced by the Cotswolds countryside, and king-size beds kitted out in Egyptian cotton sheets. The food here is a fabulous farmhouse affair, with takes on classic English dishes made with seasonal ingredients sourced from local growers and suppliers. There's also a snug drinking den with over 165 choices of gin to choose from.

The hotel offer: Stay for two nights from £189.50 per person, including a welcome drink, a three-course dinner on your first night, a full farmhouse breakfast each morning and a late check out.

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Wivenhoe House, Essex

Photo credit: Wivenhoe House Hotel
Photo credit: Wivenhoe House Hotel

Escape from the Big Smoke to the sleepy atmosphere of rural Essex at Wivenhoe House, where comfy rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies await. Enjoy a peaceful afternoon tea on the lovely lawns, or head out to explore the charming quayside town of Wivenhoe, Britain’s oldest town, Colchester, and the coast and country walks nearby.

The hotel offer: Spend two nights in the highest category Luxury Room, with a five-course dinner for two, a cocktail on one evening, breakfast each morning, a chocolate treat made by the chefs in your room on arrival, and late checkout at noon. From £220 per person for two nights.

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Rufflets, St Andrews

Photo credit: Rufflets St Andrews
Photo credit: Rufflets St Andrews

Immerse yourself in stunning Scottish scenery at this lovely hotel in the idyllic countryside near St Andrews. At Rufflets you’ll find elegant formal gardens, a picturesque kitchen garden and sun-dappled woodlands to explore in the hotel’s expansive grounds.

You can simply curl up by the fire with a book and a wee dram of whisky, or, if you’re in the mood for exploring, head into nearby St Andrews, which is only a five-minute drive away. You’ll find plenty to keep you occupied in the town, from cute little shops to the windswept West Sands beach.

The hotel offer: Save up to 40% on standard rates with a two-night stay in a Classic Bedroom from £220 per person. You’ll also get a dinner allocation of £45 per person on your first night and a full breakfast each morning.

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Mosborough Hall Hotel, South Yorkshire

Photo credit: www.mkiphoto.com/Courtesy of the hotel
Photo credit: www.mkiphoto.com/Courtesy of the hotel

Take a trip to the stunning South Yorkshire countryside with a stay at Mosborough Hall Hotel. This 12th-century manor house is only a short drive from Sheffield, so you can combine the buzz of this friendly city with the tranquillity and wonderful landscapes of the Peak District.

There are also several stately homes with beautiful landscaped grounds within easy reach of the hotel, including Haddon Hall, Tissington Hall and the famous Chatsworth Estate. If you’d prefer to simply relax at the hotel you could enjoy a delicious afternoon tea before taking a walk in the delightful surrounding gardens.

The hotel offer: Enjoy a two-night stay at Mosborough Hall from £124.50 per person with a Full English breakfast on both mornings, a three-course dinner with wine pairings, a free stay for dogs and late checkout.

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Talbooth Hotel and Spa, Essex-Suffolk border

Photo credit: Talbooth House
Photo credit: Talbooth House

The Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty sits on the Essex-Suffolk border and welcomes visitors with lush green meadows, pretty churches, and winding rivers. The landscapes here inspired artists like John Constable and Thomas Gainsborough.

It's also home to the peaceful Talbooth Hotel and Spa, set in a pale buttercream building flanked by neatly manicured topiary. This family-owned boutique bolthole has a small spa where therapists are on hand to offer Elemis massages alongside an array of other treatments, plus a three AA Rosette-awarded restaurant on the riverside.

The hotel offer: Book a one-night stay from £200 per person and you'll get a 25-minute spa treatment and an Elemis gift. There's also a three-course dinner to look forward to, along with a full English breakfast and a glass of Moët & Chandon Imperial Champagne on arrival.

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Talbooth Hotel and Spa, Essex-Suffolk border

Photo credit: Talbooth House
Photo credit: Talbooth House

The Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty sits on the Essex-Suffolk border and welcomes visitors with lush green meadows, pretty churches, and winding rivers. The landscapes here inspired artists like John Constable and Thomas Gainsborough.

It's also home to the peaceful Talbooth Hotel and Spa, set in a pale buttercream building flanked by neatly manicured topiary. This family-owned boutique bolthole has a small spa where therapists are on hand to offer Elemis massages alongside an array of other treatments, plus a three AA Rosette-awarded restaurant on the riverside.

The hotel offer: Book a one-night stay from £200 per person and you'll get a 25-minute spa treatment and an Elemis gift. There's also a three-course dinner to look forward to, along with a full English breakfast and a glass of Moët & Chandon Imperial Champagne on arrival.

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The Charlecote Pheasant Hotel, Stratford-upon-Avon

Photo credit: The Charlecote Pheasant Hotel
Photo credit: The Charlecote Pheasant Hotel

This former farmhouse is in the heart of Shakespeare Country and has plenty of rural charm, with its own landscaped gardens, exquisite period furnishings and exposed wooden beams. The rooms are set in the former Farmhouse and Hayloft and provide a lovely, restful space with modern comforts.

Stratford-upon-Avon is just a 15-minute drive away, where you can visit Anne Hathaway’s cottage or treat yourself to a Royal Shakespeare Company theatre production. The National Trust's Charlecote Park is within easy reach of the hotel too. This historic house offers views across the Avon and you can spot free-roaming sheep and fallow deer in the grounds.

The hotel offer: Spend two nights at The Charlecote Pheasant from £105 per person with a complimentary room upgrade, breakfast on both mornings, a welcome drink on arrival, a three-course dinner on your first night and a late checkout.

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The Montagu Arms, New Forest

Photo credit: Montagu Arms
Photo credit: Montagu Arms

Hide away in the tranquil New Forest at this heavenly country house hotel. The Montagu Arms has a fine dining restaurant, The Terrace, where hearty dishes like dishes like Beaulieu venison and ChalkStream trout are served.

In the light and airy bedrooms, you’ll find luxurious touches, like hand-crafted beds, most of which are king sized, cotton robes and White Company toiletries. Each room is individually decorated in traditional country house style. The Montagu Arms is located in the village of Beaulieu, home to the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, with its extensive collection of cars and motorcycles. Also nearby are the colourful Exbury Gardens, with their large collections of rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias.

The hotel offer: Escape for two nights to a House Snug room from £355 per person, with dinner at The Terrace on one evening, dinner at classic British pub Monty's Inn, and a ticket to either Exbury Gardens or Beaulieu National Motor Museum.

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Billesley Manor, Stratford-upon-Avon

Photo credit: Billesley Manor
Photo credit: Billesley Manor

One for the history lovers, this 16th-century Elizabethan manor is referenced in the Domesday Book and has an 11th-century church on its grounds where Shakespeare is said to have married Anne Hathaway.

It makes a great base for exploring Shakespeare Country, located just minutes from Stratford-upon-Avon, where you can visit the Bard’s schoolroom, his birthplace, or see one of his plays performed at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. After a busy day of exploring, recharge your batteries in Billesley Manor’s excellent spa, where you can lounge around in fluffy robes and relax in the pool, sauna and steam room, and enjoy dinner in The Stuart Restaurant, the hotel's wood-panelled Elizabethan dining room.

The hotel offer: Spend one night at Billesley Manor from £94.40 per person, including dinner on the first evening of your stay, a Full English breakfast daily, a complimentary bottle of house wine, and full use of the spa.

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Mallory Court, Warwickshire

Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel
Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel

Just outside Royal Leamington Spa in rural Warwickshire, Mallory Court is a Lutyens-style manor house with 10 acres of grounds and an elegant fine-dining restaurant. At the hotel’s Elan Spa, guests can book treatments by British brands Temple Spa and Gaia, enjoy a spell in its salt sauna and warm up with a view of the Warwickshire countryside at the outdoor vitality pool.

Further afield, don’t miss nearby National Trust properties Hidcote Manor, Charlecote Park and Upton House. The manor is also perfectly placed for visiting Warwick Castle, Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswolds.

The hotel offer: From £154.50 per person, enjoy a one-night stay with a full English breakfast, a five-course tasting menu in the Manor House Dining Room (worth £80 per person) and an upgrade to a Classic Room (worth £46).

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Summer Lodge, Dorset

Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel
Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel

In the sleepy Dorset village of Evershot and a short drive from Dorchester, this former dower house, built in 1798, offers an idyllic rural retreat for some true peace and quiet. Guests can borrow a bicycle to explore the scenic surroundings, play tennis or croquet, or head to the spa.

The cosy Whisky Bar has more than 300 varieties to work your way through, or leave your beverage selection in the safe hands of the sommelier. The restaurant, which serves the very best local produce, is the star of the show.

The hotel offer: This two-night stay in a Cosy Double costs from £390 per person, with breakfast, dinner on both evenings (plus a bottle of wine on the first night), and access to the hotel’s spa and swimming pool.

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Melville Castle, Edinburgh

Photo credit: Melville Castle
Photo credit: Melville Castle

Melville Castle is just a few miles south of Edinburgh and has the feel of a fairytale castle, with its towers and battlements, grey stonework, and arched windows. Inside, you’ll find modern touches of luxury alongside traditional features. Many rooms feature regally ornate four-poster beds and layers of luxury bedding for a sumptuously cosy night.

It’s the perfect base for exploring Edinburgh, with its museums, monuments, and excellent range of restaurants, and for making the most of the tranquility of the woodland surroundings. There’s a delicious, fuss-free menu available in the Brasserie Restaurant and a stylish bar to relax in, where you can choose from a wide variety of cocktails and try the popular whisky flight tasting.

The hotel offer: Spend two nights in a Classic Bedroom from £199.50 per person, with a Scottish breakfast each morning, a welcome drink, a three-course dinner at the Brasserie Restaurant, and a late checkout.

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Wivenhoe House, Essex

Photo credit: Wivenhoe House Hotel
Photo credit: Wivenhoe House Hotel

Escape from the Big Smoke to the sleepy atmosphere of rural Essex at Wivenhoe House, where comfy rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies await. Enjoy a peaceful afternoon tea on the lovely lawns, or head out to explore the charming quayside town of Wivenhoe, Britain’s oldest town, Colchester, and the coast and country walks nearby.

The hotel offer: Spend two nights in the highest category Luxury Room, with a five-course dinner for two, a cocktail on one evening, breakfast each morning, a chocolate treat made by the chefs in your room on arrival, and late checkout at noon. From £220 per person for two nights.

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Loch Fyne Hotel, Inveraray

Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel
Photo credit: Courtesy of the hotel

On the shores of Loch Fyne and surrounded by spectacular Scottish countryside, this hotel is close to the town of Inveraray and its namesake castle. More incredible scenery awaits if you head to the nearby Trossachs National Park, home to Loch Lomond. Don’t forget to keep watch for red squirrels on your walks through woodlands or along the shores of the area’s beautiful lochs.

The restaurant, which has a wonderful view of the water, showcases the local bounty, with Scottish scallops and Atlantic cod just some of the highlights.

The hotel offer: From £390 per person for this two-night stay, you’ll enjoy dinner, bed and breakfast, plus afternoon tea with a glass of champagne (as well as a bottle of cremant on arrival), an Ishga gift worth £90 and 10% off all spa treatments, a Coorie candle and a thermal spa experience.

FIND OUT MORE


Mosborough Hall Hotel, South Yorkshire

Photo credit: www.mkiphoto.com/Courtesy of the hotel
Photo credit: www.mkiphoto.com/Courtesy of the hotel

Take a trip to the stunning South Yorkshire countryside with a stay at Mosborough Hall Hotel. This 12th-century manor house is only a short drive from Sheffield, so you can combine the buzz of this friendly city with the tranquillity and wonderful landscapes of the Peak District.

There are also several stately homes with beautiful landscaped grounds within easy reach of the hotel, including Haddon Hall, Tissington Hall and the famous Chatsworth Estate. If you’d prefer to simply relax at the hotel you could enjoy a delicious afternoon tea before taking a walk in the delightful surrounding gardens.

The hotel offer: Enjoy a two-night stay at Mosborough Hall from £114.50 per person with a Full English breakfast on both mornings, a three-course dinner with wine pairings, a free stay for dogs and late checkout.

FIND OUT MORE


Talbooth Hotel and Spa, Essex-Suffolk border

Photo credit: Talbooth House
Photo credit: Talbooth House

The Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty sits on the Essex-Suffolk border and welcomes visitors with lush green meadows, pretty churches, and winding rivers. The landscapes here inspired artists like John Constable and Thomas Gainsborough.

It's also home to the peaceful Talbooth Hotel and Spa, set in a pale buttercream building flanked by neatly manicured topiary. This family-owned boutique bolthole has a small spa where therapists are on hand to offer Elemis massages alongside an array of other treatments, plus a three AA Rosette-awarded restaurant on the riverside.

The hotel offer: Book a one-night stay from £200 per person and you'll get a 25-minute spa treatment and an Elemis gift. There's also a three-course dinner to look forward to, along with a full English breakfast and a glass of Moët & Chandon Imperial Champagne on arrival.

FIND OUT MORE

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