"Sophisticated, yet traditional, this medieval manor in the Cotswolds now houses a luxury hotel in idyllic surrounds."
As a tawny Cotswold stone manor house in idyllic surrounds, Buckland Manor is the perfect ‘old English’ boutique hotel. There are no spas, no corporate facilities, no day visitors to ruin your experience of the country house hotel as a traditional, grand weekend retreat. This is perhaps why it has flown below the radar of the mainstream press – it feels like a real discovery.
The house itself is a dream. Parts of it dates back to the 13th century, much of it is fine Jacobean. It was in private hands until 1982 and much of the furniture and many paintings came with the house when it became a hotel, so there are some beautiful things. It’s traditional, but it’s all so elegantly and discreetly done, with flagstone floors and soft Axminster carpets.
Buckland Manor is for anyone seeking a serious country house experience. It manages to be very warm, very welcoming and very unstuffy, despite its traditional leanings. We fervently hope that it remains a well-kept secret.
The facilities
This boutique hotel has a heated swimming pool and an extremely popular restaurant, serving a refined British cuisine with European influences. The menu features locally-sourced food, and all herbs used are from Buckland Manor’s own garden. The wine cellar is extensive and extremely well chosen.
The rooms
This five star boutique hotel has thirteen air conditioned bedrooms, all large, with four-posters and lovely sweeping views. All rooms have cable TV and internet access.
Address: Buckland, near Broadway, Gloucestershire, England, United Kingdom, WR12 7LY
Rates from:
GBP 265
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Who stays here
Rather bizarrely, Michael Jackson has stayed here; don't let that put you off. The clientele are a distinguished and refined international crowd, mainly 40+ couples - it's the ideal place to celebrate special anniversaries.
Come for
- Sophisticated, traditional, Chippendale-and-Old-Masters style
- Wonderful gardens and grounds
- Very good formal-yet-friendly service
Not suitable for
- The Babington House, contemporary, designer brigade
- Children under 12 - not permitted
Awards
“World’s Best Service”, Travel + Leisure 07; “World’s Best Hotels”, Travel + Leisure 06; "Gold List" Conde Nast Traveler 07, 06, 05
Children
Children under the age of 12 are not permitted at the hotel.
Eating in
It's jackets and ties for dinner and Sunday lunch in the very good, expensive formal restaurant; the wine list is very highly regarded. Sunday lunches are renowned - book 2-3 weeks in advance. Last orders for room service 11 p.m.
