Cotswolds Retreats: 10 of the Most Beautiful and Peaceful Inns and Hotels
The Maytime Inn, Asthall
Located on the River Windrush in the Cotswold Hills, Burford is sometimes called the gateway to the Cotswolds and has one of the prettiest streets in the area, but it teems with tourists in the summer, making the Maytime Inn, just a few miles away in the nearby town of Asthall, a great place to retreat to after a day of exploring. The six bedrooms exude rustic chic, while the restaurant serves up convivial sharing boards and pub classics, with wood-fired pizzas at the weekends - best eaten in the large garden, with tranquil views over the hills beyond. There are sometimes quizzes and live music in the evenings. Doubles from £130 B&B; themaytime.com
Ellenborough Park, Cheltenham
Ideal for those who want to explore Cheltenham without staying in the bustling centre, Ellenborough is a classic Cotswold manor house that covers its 500 years of history with modern, contemporary decor. Meals take place in a choice of settings, from circular glass capsules on the pristine lawn to the traditional wood-panelled dining room, with summer evening cocktails served on the Taittinger Terrace. Rooms have the look of a contemporary country house with aplomb, and the Indian-inspired Elemis Spa offers post-ride treatments and soothing massages. Doubles from £242 B&B; ellenboroughpark.com
The Wheatsheaf, Northleach
Located on the River Windrush in the Cotswold Hills, Burford is sometimes called the gateway to the Cotswolds and has one of the prettiest streets in the area, but it teems with tourists in the summer, making the Maytime Inn, just a few miles away in the nearby town of Asthall, a great place to retreat to after a day of exploring. The six bedrooms exude rustic chic, while the restaurant serves up convivial sharing boards and pub classics, with wood-fired pizzas at the weekends - best eaten in the large garden, with tranquil views over the hills beyond. There are sometimes quizzes and live music in the evenings. Doubles from £130 B&B; themaytime.com
Ellenborough Park, CheltenhamIdeal for those who want to explore Cheltenham without staying in the bustling centre, Ellenborough is a classic Cotswold manor house that covers its 500 years of history with modern, contemporary decor. Meals take place in a choice of settings, from circular glass capsules on the pristine lawn to the traditional wood-panelled dining room, with summer evening cocktails served on the Taittinger Terrace. Rooms have the look of a contemporary country house with aplomb, and the Indian-inspired Elemis Spa offers post-ride treatments and soothing massages. Doubles from £242 B&B; ellenboroughpark.com
The Wheatsheaf, NorthleachWhat's Your Reaction?
