Featuring: Best of British Getaways 2025
Best of British Getaways 2025 Phone: 01283 365204 Website: smenews.digital Sofi Parry Senior Editor No information contained on or in this website constitutes investment advice or an offer to invest or to provide management services and is subject to correction, completion and amendment without notice. Neither AI nor any of its associated entities are authorised to give financial advice of any nature nor are they regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Prior to making any investment, AI recommends that any prospective investor should consult with its own investment, accounting, legal and tax advisers to evaluate independently the risks, consequences and suitability of that investment. AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility. SME News is excited to present the Best of British Getaways 2025! Now in its fourth year, the Best of British Getaways celebrates the very best of Britain’s thriving tourism industry – a sector that’s not only crucial to our economy but also to the heart and soul of our nation. Tourism in Britain is a powerhouse, creating jobs, supporting local economies, and showing off all the incredible attractions, landscapes, and experiences the country has to offer. From charming coastal hideaways and countryside retreats to historical sites, quirky stays, and unforgettable adventures, British Tourism continues to grow and evolve in exciting ways. The Best of British Getaways 2025 is all about celebrating the people, businesses, and organisations that are leading the way. These are the individuals and teams working hard to create memorable experiences, promote sustainability, and keep the British Tourism market fresh, vibrant, and ready for the future. In a world brimming with creativity and passion, who is really setting the standard for excellence in British Tourism?
Contents 4. Peek-a-Booze Hotel: Most Inclusive Cabaret Hotel & Bar 2025 - Blackpool 6. Monkstadt 1745 Restaurant with Rooms: Best Luxury Lodge Getaway 2025 - Isle of Skye & Excellence Award in Heritage Tourism 2025 8. Cotswold Cottage Holidays: Best Holiday Cottage Accommodation 2025 – Cotswolds 9. Ye Olde England Tours: Best Private Walking Tours Provider 2025 10. Provenance Holdings Ltd / Cross Farmhouse: Best Self-Catering Rural Retreat 2025 – Dorset & Excellence Award in Luxury New Forest Getaways 2025 11. Down Hall Hotel: Country House Hotel & Spa of the Year 2025 - England & Corporate Retreat Excellence Award 2025
Best of British Getaways 2025/ 4 Those in search of somewhere where the night sparkles and pride shines bright need look no further than PeekaBooze, a leading cabaret hotel and bar located in Blackpool’s gay village. Serving a mixed clientele, including the LGBT community, PeekaBooze offers live shows every night of the week, mixing comfort, entertainment, and an unforgettable night out all under one roof. This, combined with its affordable adults-only accommodation, has netted PeekaBooze a well-deserved award in this programme. Co-owner Wayne Taylor was on hand to talk about this cabaret hotel. Located just about 2,000 feet from Blackpool’s famous North Pier, around half a mile from Blackpool Tower, and approximately a 15-minute walk from Blackpool North Beach, to say that the PeekaBooze hotel is in an ideal location would be an understatement. This makes its offerings all the more impressive, as PeekaBooze covers all the bases of an inclusive party hotel at prices that have to be seen to be believed. From its rooms to its drinks, everything is highly affordable, whilst still being of a very high standard. Blending a lively atmosphere with exceptional entertainment delivered seven days a week, PeekaBooze is famous amongst locals for the warm and inclusive environment it boasts, something which extends to everyone who walks through its doors. And those who do come from all walks of life, from members of the LGBT community looking for a safe space to be themselves through to groups in search of fun and exciting night out. These guests choose PeekaBooze for its blend of affordable comfort and on-site entertainment. It was with this reputation in mind that Wayne and Daz, the current owners of PeekaBooze, took over the hotel in December 2024. Wayne told us: “Rather than fundamentally changing the business’ core philosophy, we have enhanced the existing values and focused on making significant improvements to both the physical premises and the guest experience, all whilst retaining the original spirit.” He continued: “Our values and core mission remain largely the same, focusing on inclusivity, entertainment, and value alike.” As mentioned above, PeekaBooze’s distinction in Blackpool’s hospitality landscape comes from it taking simple, affordable accommodation and blending it with a cabaret bar offering quality entertainment every night. Guests can enjoy everything from drag shows and live music to karaoke at PeekaBooze, making its experience unrivalled. Bigger groups often attend for hen parties or to celebrate milestone birthdays, but there are plenty of smaller groups and couples who show up for a good time whenever they visit town. Beyond its dazzling décor and welcoming vibes, another element making PeekaBooze the perfect place to unwind on a night out is its selection of drinks. From an expansive cocktail menu to a list of tasty wines, a range of top-shelf spirits, and a number of trusty beer brands on tap, every patron will have their tipple of choice catered for across this assortment. These beverages are also perfect for washing down the wholesome, homecooked food served at PeekaBooze, which ranges from a full English to a Sunday roast. The food is one of the most sought-after things at PeekaBooze, with the balance it strikes between quality and affordability being indicative of the experience provided by the setting more broadly. A series of daily specials help diners to get the best bang for their buck, and whether it’s a curry and a pint on a Monday, a pie and a pint on a Thursday, or roast beef with free soup and £1 dessert on a Sunday, every day has something exciting in store from the kitchen at PeekaBooze, which delivers exactly what is expected of it. With it also offering a place for people to rest their heads after a night enjoying Blackpool’s famous nightlife – each of the hotel’s rooms offer comfortable beds with high-quality linen, an en-suite bathroom with fluffy towels, a flatscreen TV, and facilities to make tea or coffee – PeekaBooze today serves as the one-stop shop for the Blackpool getaway experience. Wayne explained: “The convenience of having entertainment, drinks, and a comfortable bed in one place removes the hassle of planning a night out in a new town.” Since they first took over PeekaBooze just over 12 months ago, co-owners Wayne and Daz have made sure to make the necessary improvements to ensure that this status remains intact, enhancing the comfort, décor, and operational policies of this Blackpool party hotel without sacrificing on either its budget-friendly ethos or its vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. Sharing some of these tweaks with us, Wayne told us how no smoking is allowed in any of the rooms now, and management takes much more of a hands-on role than before. Most Inclusive Cabaret Hotel & Bar 2025 - Blackpool
“Daz and I are actively involved in daily operations, from welcoming guests to assisting the bar staff. This visible, personal touch creates a welcoming, family feel and ensures high standards are maintained.” For example, Daz can often be seen dancing around the establishment as he helps to collect empty glasses, all whilst talking to new and returning customers alike to ensure that everyone feels welcome. On the back of this, Wayne sees himself as a very approachable owner and he hopes that on the rare occasion that a patron does have an issue with any part of their experience, they will come to him directly so that he and Daz may sort it out. After all, they have not been in charge for all that long, and refining things takes time. Despite this, one thing these new owners of Blackpool’s leading adults-only cabaret hotel knew for sure was the need been to preserve the strong nightly entertainment, with popular hosts like Su Naami and BB Brookes continuing to deliver event nights revolving around the likes of bingo and other games. As its status as a cabaret hotel suggests, PeekaBooze’s signature cabaret show on Sunday nights also gets its share of acclaim, as does DJ Keiron in the booth playing great music in between the other events and performances. Ultimately, it is a combination of all of these factors – great music, fun entertainment, hands-on management, tasty food, affordable drinks, an inclusive environment, and a perfect location – that stands PeekaBooze apart from other bars and hotels in the region. With Wayne and Daz continuing to make the necessary improvements to transform this space into their vision, one can only imagine what it will look like in six months or a year’s time. Especially since 2026 is about continuing to enhance services and improve facilities. All of the changes made so far have been received well by regular guests and firsttimers alike, demonstrating the unwavering commitment that these owners have to solidifying the hotel’s niche for vibrant inclusion. More on the location we are proud to recognise as the Most Inclusive Cabaret Hotel & Bar 2025 – Blackpool in our Best of British Getaways 2025 can be found at the link below, with the official PeekaBooze website offering but a ‘peak’ of the enjoyment that awaits valued guests in this unique and diverse haven. “We are delighted to have been voted the Most Inclusive Cabaret Hotel & Bar in the area. We will proudly promote this award to attract guests who specifically value a safe, welcoming, attitudefree environment where everyone feels at home.” Contact: Wayne Taylor Company: PeekaBooze Web Address: peekaboozehotelbar.co.uk/
Best of British Getaways 2025/ 6 Following his decisive defeat in the Battle of Culloden in 1746, Bonnie Prince Charlie was on the run. He managed to escape up through Scotland, eventually settling on Uist, where he was first introduced to Flora MacDonald. Flora became part of a group that planned to smuggle the Prince over to the Isle of Skye, where he would be safer. Despite not being a keen Jacobite supporter herself, Flora felt compelled to help the Prince, who by this time had a price of £30,000 on his head and was being hunted all over the Highlands. After taking the disguised Prince over to Skye by boat (an act immortalised throughout the region by a famous song) Flora left the shore where they had landed to seek out Sir Alexander and Lady Margaret, who lived at Monkstadt House. She knew they were sympathisers to the cause, and that they could see the Prince provided with the support he needed to embark on the next stage of his plan to escape back out to Europe. However, after arriving at their house, Flora was surprised to be greeted by Lt. Macleod and a group of Red Coat Officers. They were looking for the Prince and were hot on his tail. Luckily, Flora was able to convince the men that she new nothing of the Prince or his whereabouts. Once they left, Flora was able to speak with Lady Margaret, whose concern for the Prince’s welfare led her to give Flora the provisions so they could continue on to their next residence, Kingsburgh House. A few days later, the Prince escaped. Flora ended up in the Tower of London for her part in the plan, but she was eventually freed after Lady Margaret intervened. Although she would never meet the Prince again, their story became immortalised in Scottish folklore. Flora herself was even commemorated in a bronze statue erected outside of Inverness Castle in the late 1890s. Her legacy lives on further through Monkstadt 1745, the site of her visit to Lady Margeret and encounter with the Red Coat Officers, which is today a luxury lodge and a beacon of heritage tourism. Vacated by the MacDonalds in the late 1790s – following the restoration of Armadale Castle, which is just down the road in Sleat – Monkstadt House and its grounds were inhabited by a variety of tacksmen, farmers, and land workers in the following decades, before falling into a state of disrepair. This trend continued until the early 1980s, when the MacQueen family bought Monkstadt House and its steadings in order to restore them to glory. “The story of Monkstadt House, Bonnie Prince Charlie, and Flora McDonald is a story that every child in Scotland has heard. It is full of mystery, romance, and intrigue.” J. W. MacQueen, the man who bought Monkstadt House, would sadly pass away as a young man, leaving his son to take on the project and begin rebuilding all of its steadings over a period of about 30 years. Poor health forced him to retire, leading James, his brother, to purchase the House in 2018, finally finishing this family project. This was a huge source of pride for James, who officially opened Monkstadt 1745 around five years ago. The story of Flora MacDonald and Bonnie Prince Charlie is famous across Scotland, with the former, a young woman from the Highlands, risking her life in order to help the latter, a fugitive who led the Second Jacobite Rebellion, escape Scotland after losing the Battle of Culloden in 1746. The site of this famous story was the Isle of Skye, in particular Monkstadt House (the residence of Clan MacDonald Chief Sir Alexander). Today, this is the home of Monkstadt 1745, the island’s best luxury lodge getaway. Below, we take a look at this historic residence and the story behind its fame. Best Luxury Lodge Getaway 2025 - Isle of Skye & Excellence Award in Heritage Tourism 2025
Offering visitors the opportunity to talk, eat, and sleep in the same setting as some of the most famous heroes in Scottish history, Monkstadt 1745 prides itself on delivering a luxury escape steeped in heritage, with up to 20 guests able to stay in Monkstadt House and a further 23 in the cottages and steadings surrounding it. All of this accommodation is of a five-star standard, and the main building operates as a bed and breakfast whilst its other spaces are self-catering, ensuring there is something for guests of any persuasion to enjoy. Today, Monkstadt House is also home to an outstanding restaurant, which not only serves the full Scottish breakfast as part of the B&B but also offers a tasty dinner menu in the evenings. The recipient of an AA Rosette, the restaurant here is known for preparing fresh produce served in a local style, with delicacies including hand-dived scallops, langoustine sourced from the nearby village of Uig, and lamb reared at farms just down the road. Complementing this culinary experience is the hidden Whisky Room that is also within Monkstadt House, with this serving guests a selection of the finest local whiskies, as well as gins and beers from in and around Skye. In this way, Monkstadt 1745 serves an authentic taste of Scotland, a theme that continues right across its glorious surroundings. With a picturesque walk available in almost every direction from the door of Monkstadt House – culminating in stunning views across to both North Uist and the Isle of Harris – Scotland never seems more beautiful than it does during a stay at Monkstadt 1745. What is more, there are a number of magnificent sites nearby for guests to enjoy, including the Quiraing (a remarkable landscape and walking trail), the Old Man of Storr (a 55-metre-high rock formation that is part of a 2,800-million-year-old volcanic plug), and the beautiful Fairy Pools (a series of natural pools and waterfalls with crystal-clear water). Despite their being an abundance of fantastic things to see and do all around the Isle of Skye, guests will nevertheless return to their accommodation at Monkstadt 1745 with excitement, this on the back of the exceptional experience they will be afforded at every turn. Attention to detail is a common theme here, with the five-star status of the location – recognised as such by Visit Scotland and the AA alike – being reflected not only in the spaces themselves, but also across every stage of a guest’s journey. This begins the minute of booking. As soon as a stay at Monkstadt 1745 is confirmed, staff send out clear and concise information over email, showcasing the best of Monkstadt House and the services provided. For those seeking to channel the romance inherent in the tale of Flora MacDonald and Bonnie Prince Charlie discussed above, a number of additional packages are also available, adding an extra sense of luxury to a stay where this will already be the defining theme. Things only pick up when a guest arrives, with the warm welcome they are provided consisting of any information requested about the local area, as well as the story of the property itself and the strong ties it has to the famous tale that is a crucial part in the military history of both Scotland and England alike. This history is woven into every stay at Monkstadt House, seen through each of its seven suites being named after a historical figure with some link to the story – from Lady Margaret to Flora herself. Each of these namesake suites offers a four-poster bed, a roll-top bath, and all of the other luxuries guests expect from a lavish lodge in the heart of the country – including free Wi-Fi and a coffee machine – without losing the historic feel of this famed residence. Jacobite symbols can also be found throughout the House – including sunflowers, butterflies, and oak leaves – evoking the spirit of Bonnie Prince Charlie and his loyal supporters, many of whom lost their lives fighting for the cause in the Highlands. Monkstadt 1745 stands as testament to their legacy, as well as the story of mystery and romance surrounding both Flora MacDonald and Bonnie Prince Charlie. It is this which leads to the motto of Monkstadt: ‘Your History is Our History’. This reflects its commitment to heritage tourism. Recognised for this in our Best of British Getaways 2025 programme – not to mention also being named the Best Luxury Lodge Getaway 2025 – Isle of Skye, Monkstadt 1745 has all of the ingredients needed for a fantastic stay, not to mention the kind of historic distinction that attracts visitors from all over the world. We urge our readers to find out more about it by visiting the link below or following Monkstadt 1745’s pages on social media. Contact: Ela McQueen Company: Monkstadt 1745 Web Address: https://monkstadt1745.com/
Best of British Getaways 2025/ 8 Best Holiday Cottage Accommodation 2025 – Cotswolds Based in the heart of the Cotswolds, Broadway is a picturesque village which many treasure but many are yet to discover. From breathtaking landscapes to delicious food, in addition to deeply rooted and rich cultural heritage, the village has become a hot spot for those searching for a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Broadway is also home to a small selection of magnificent cottages, some belonging to Andrew Scott of award-winning Cotswold Holiday Cottages. Here we enjoy exploring Cotswold Holiday Cottages’ offerings as its excellence was recently recognised in our Best of British Getaways 2025 awards programme. Owned by Andrew Scott and operated by himself and his dedicated team, this selection of three precious cottages based in Broadway have been turning heads since their establishment in 1987. Andrew told us: “I started off by owning what would become an award winning inn in Broadway. Having five letting rooms and a very strong position in the food and drink trade, we won ‘The Good Pub Guide Value Pub of the Year 2016’ as well as a number of CAMRA awards. I therefore grew the business by adding these three holiday cottages.” One of these three gems is the Laburnum Cottage, which is a holiday cottage nestled near the 11th century St Eadabughers Church. This culturally valuable and significant location is revered by many explorers and history enthusiasts, and Laburnum Cottage is only a stone’s throw away. This distance between the cottage and the church allows for easy access to an exciting landmark and the beauty of Broadway’s village centre. The cottage itself also offers a quiet luxury, warm energy, and privacy during your stay. This can be a harmonious balance of exploration and relaxation, depending on what you wish for throughout your staycation. Including features such as private parking, Wi-Fi connectivity, a stunning garden, fully equipped kitchen, with a washing machine and dishwasher, as well as a gas log fireplace and central heating, and a smart HD digital television, Laburnum Cottage has everything needed to enjoy a relaxing stay. In addition, the two Lower Mill Cottages are also fully equipped with the above but they also feature a stream running through, EV charging points, and are a short walk away from Broadway’s centre which provides a fantastic collection of pubs and restaurants to relish. As a location further known for its quiet and close-knit events, Broadway has so much happening while remaining a place to relax and recharge. This symbiotic relationship between humans and nature means that visitors can find fun and community as well as enjoy the glorious natural surroundings, both a boon to many travellers and guests in Broadway. Andrew told us that Cotswold Holiday Cottages presents staycations throughout the changing seasons of the year. The three self-catering cottages in the Cotswolds provide the perfect setting for visitors looking to make memories of serenity or adventure, or even a mixture of both. Offering mid-week and weekend breaks away, through any season, Cotswold Holiday Cottages gives guests the chance to see the Broadway Christmas light switch-on event with many interesting events and places to visit throughout the area. For example, many people enjoy the Broadway Tower, a local landmark that you can see 16 counties on a clear day, and Broadway’s own steam engine railway station, which goes to Cheltenham, which has a great number of events around it. Therefore, if you’re looking for a dedicated and notably caring approach to holiday cottages in Broadway, Cotswold Holiday Cottages has a team that will make your dream of a peaceful escape come true. Andrew was proud to share: “Having run Cotswold Cottage Holidays for 40 years now, I have enjoyed both the good and challenging times with my wonderful team.” For the year to come, and years to follow, Cotswold Cottage Holidays will keep pushing forward with what they know and love to deliver. Andrew expanded: “We will be growing Cotswold Cottage Holidays as an independent family business, creating jobs and excellence. Family members and employees become an asset to this client friendly project.” You can contact Cotswold Holiday Cottages for more information and to book your stay in the Laburnum Cottage or the Lower Mill Cottages, and the website is keeps completely up-to-date with dates of availability. These stunning holiday cottages in the Cotswolds are a shining example of fine hospitality, wonderfully maintained properties, and the best opportunity for a British getaway for unforgettable lifelong memories. Contact: Andrew Scott Company: Cotswold Cottage Holidays Website: https://www.cotswoldcottageholidays.co.uk/
Walking tours have risen to become one of the most sought-after ways to explore the UK, offering travellers a slower, more intimate connection with the places they visit. As interest grows, visitors are increasingly seeking experiences that tell a story, feeling personal, immersive, and rooted in local history. One company shaping this shift is Ye Olde England Tours, a private walking tour provider that has built a stellar reputation for creating tailored, insightful journeys through the country’s history. We spoke with Owner and Chief Tour Guide Stephen Liddell to learn more, as Ye Olde England Tours is named in the Best of British Getaways 2025. Best Private Walking Tours Provider 2025 Ye Olde England Tours was founded in 2012, pioneering the concept of private, bespoke walking tours –now all the rage today. The company provides private walking tours across London, Yorkshire, Newcastle, Edinburgh, the East Midlands, and in and around the Lake District. It serves a wide variety of guests, from professionals and retired travellers to student backpackers, young couples, and families seeking an educational yet engaging experience. At the helm of these trailblazing tours is Stephen Liddell, a travel enthusiast with a deep love for the country’s history. Holding both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in history, Stephen travels extensively throughout the UK, organising guided tours to dozens of historic sites and visiting hundreds more. He has also arranged holidays and tours in countries outside of the UK for 25 years, having visited 21 European nations in addition to North Africa and the Middle East. Under Stephen’s expert guidance, Ye Olde England Tours offers guests a rare glimpse of England that many visitors never experience. Specialising in the old and historic, the company operates more than 75 pre-set, private, and personal tours throughout London and across the UK. Excursions range from general sightseeing and neighbourhood tours to shopping tours around pubs and markets, as well as specialist tours themed around historic events, literature, and television. “I created 99% of these tours myself, and they mostly remain totally unique” Stephen told us. “We not only specialise in visiting the famous big sites, but we also hold tours in the middle of London, such as the Secret Gardens of the City of London, the Roman London Walking Tour, and the Freemasons Tour. If we only get a handful of bookings for a certain niche tour, then that is perfectly fine; we are not particularly in it for the money, but because we love showing our history and culture to the world.” Guest satisfaction lies at the heart of Ye Olde England Tours’ operations, underpinning all that the company does. The team is committed to providing a professional and courteous service, personalised to meet the unique wants and needs of each group it serves. The company trusts its guides to leverage this commitment, using their initiative and doing whatever it takes to make each tour a success and ensure that each guest leaves having had their expectations surpassed. This dedication to guest-centricity has allowed Ye Olde England Tours to gain muchdeserved recognition throughout the country, demonstrated through a flood of positive reviews across platforms such as Tripadvisor, Google Reviews, GetYourGuide, and more. With continued praise for delivering bespoke, unhurried, and exceptionally educational tours, Ye Olde England Tours has certainly earned its status as the Best Private Walking Tours Provider 2025. One client wrote: “Over our 11 day visit to three countries, this was the best tour we had. We booked the Churchill Tour specifically because of our son’s love of history, and Stephen did not disappoint. We all learned so much, and Stephen took us to locations that were not even on our scheduled tour to show us other historically significant finds. If you are looking for a reliable, knowledgeable guide and wellcurated tours, I cannot recommend Ye Olde England Tours enough. We are looking forward to taking another tour with Stephen on our next visit to London!” While another said: “Stephen is an absolutely brilliant person and tour guide. Aside from being the most personable gentleman we have met in London thus far, he is extremely knowledgeable about the tour subjects he provides. From start to finish, he engaged with us, answered a multitude of questions, and provided valuable insight into our tour subject matter. We could not have been happier with Stephen and the quality of our tour. We highly recommend him without hesitation.” Contact: Stephen Liddell Company: Ye Olde England Tours Web Address: www.yeoldeenglandtours.co.uk • AIM-Nov25348
Best of British Getaways 2025/ 10 Best Self-Catering Rural Retreat 2025 – Dorset & Excellence Award in Luxury New Forest Getaways 2025 The travel sector has played a crucial role in advancing the UK’s financial landscape, serving as the very backbone of the country’s economy. This understanding is championed by Provenance Holdings, a family-operated business striving to convert properties into luxury getaways that not only boost British tourism but also support small local businesses and local communities. This vision was realised with the purchase and large-scale renovation of Cross Farmhouse in Dorset, a retreat that has been recognised in the Best of British Getaways 2025. We took a closer look below. Cross Farmhouse was purchased by Provenance Holdings in 2019, with the aim of creating a rural retreat catering to the needs of diverse guests, prioritising the guest experience, and becoming Dorset’s very best British getaway. The journey came with its own particular challenges; renovations were delayed due to restrictions stemming from COVID-19, though the team forged ahead and were nonetheless able to accept their first guests in August 2020 – shortly before lockdowns were enforced once again. The team immediately began to market the property, first through an online agency and Airbnb, with the latter providing significantly better returns. From there, a website was established to support direct bookings at Cross Farmhouse, and the property started to build a remarkable reputation. Now, having operated Cross Farmhouse for five years, Provenance Holding is actively monitoring the UK tourism industry closely, while analysing returns on the property to determine whether further expansion is viable. Today, Cross Farmhouse stands as a luxury self-catering getaway positioned in a rural location at the edge of Alderholt, Dorset. The farmhouse has been entirely renovated and refreshed since its purchase and now provides spacious yet cosy accommodation that is not only tastefully decorated but also easily adaptable for up to eight people, offering guests a selection of four king-sized rooms that are each fitted with their own en-suite bathroom. Guests visit Cross Farmhouse for a variety of reasons, whether seeking a short-term stay for a weekend getaway, attending family reunions and weddings in the local area, or celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and various other milestones. Regardless of their reason for visiting, however, each guest is united by an appreciation for luxury, which is offered at all levels of the Cross Farmhouse experience. The ability to target the higher end of the tourism sector is made possible by Cross Farmhouse’s status as a side business, meaning that its owners are not bound by having to turn over large volumes of guests each week to maximise profits. With this model, the retreat offers long weekend getaways, with early check-ins and later check-outs than the norm. This is widely regarded as an important aspect of the luxury getaway, enabling guests to get the most out of their time away without feeling rushed by an early departure. The property itself has been renovated with comfort, luxury, and quality in mind. In addition to boasting luxury king-size bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms, Cross Farmhouse offers a well-equipped kitchen and dining area, a comfortable living space, and a dedicated workspace with Wi-Fi for working. What’s more, guests can stay warm and cosy with underfloor heating running throughout the house and an electric fire in the lounge, which also features a 65 inch television. Beyond its accommodation, Cross Farmhouse offers guests an exclusive retreat into the heart of rural Dorset. The property is situated just on the edge of both the New Forest National Park and the Cranborne Chase National Landscape, offering endless walking and off-road cycling opportunities. It is also surrounded by country villages and communities; the neighbouring village of Fordingbridge is of special note, with a pub on the river and many small businesses to explore for local produce. From its unrivalled amenities to its owners’ unwavering commitment to the highest standards of cleanliness, quality, and overall guest experience, Cross Farmhouse has certainly cemented itself in the minds of every guest it serves. The property has earned well-deserved celebration for its outstanding offerings, with its most recent acknowledgement being the Excellence Award in Luxury New Forest Getaways 2025, alongside recognition as Dorset’s Best Self-Catering Rural Retreat 2025. In light of this significant success, the Owner of Cross Farmhouse shared: “We are excited to have been recognised for this award in the Best of British Getaways, which was our goal from the outset: to be the best in the area for what we offer, at affordable prices. We hope our business can build on this recognition, which may enable us to expand our offerings in the future or add further properties to the portfolio.” Company: Provenance Holdings Ltd / Cross Farmhouse Web Address: www.crossfarmhouse.com
Standing as one of England’s most established country house hotels, Down Hall offers an abundance of luxury rooms and amenities tailored to meet each discerning guest’s needs. The hotel caters to a variety of travellers, from individuals and couples seeking an immersive escape to the countryside to families and corporate groups hoping to find a rare moment of peace together to bond. Regardless of its guest’s specifications, however, Down Hall Hotel remains committed to delivering an unparalleled stay. Each of the hotel’s 98 rooms have been individually designed to reflect the distinct character of the property, from the spacious and comfortable Classic and Executive bedrooms to Feature rooms that enjoy uninterrupted views of the expansive estate. All rooms are equipped with Wi-Fi, complimentary hot drinks stations, a safe, and an iron to ensure ultimate convenience throughout the duration of each stay. These luxurious rooms are complemented by a number of premium facilities. Guests can choose from a wide range of dining experiences: dining al fresco on the Terrace, with an outdoor bar, comfortable furniture, and reliable heaters; sampling locally sourced ingredients and fresh produce from the seasonal fine dining menu at The Garden Room Restaurant; or exploring a wide selection of cocktails, wines, beers, champagnes, and bar bites in the intimacy of The Fox Bar. At Down Hall, rejuvenation is also an important aspect of the guest experience. The hotel offers two distinct spa experiences, each with its own unique atmosphere and offerings. The Eden Spa boasts three single treatment rooms and one double suite for couples, complete with a soothing hydrotherapy pool maintained at 36˚C, along with a traditional steam room and sauna. The spa also offers an array of exceptional treatments developed in partnership with TEMPLESPA, a science-led British skincare brand. Opened in September 2025, The Barn Spa is inspired by nature and designed for relaxation. The spa contains five bespoke treatment rooms – including a double room for couple treatments – and a landscaped relaxation terrace, providing guests with a restorative experience while deeply connecting them with nature. Each of The Barn Spa’s treatments exclusively utilise Bramley products, a choice that reflects the hotel’s commitment to holistic wellbeing and environmental consciousness. For guests wishing to hold private events, Down Hall possesses a number of exclusive spaces that range from intimate boardrooms to large function rooms. With four private rooms in the Mansion House and an additional ten private rooms within the West Wing, as well as 110 acres of adaptable outdoor space, the hotel is well prepared to host a wide range of events. Alongside this, Down Hall’s kitchen team provides a signature buffet for day delegates and a variety of party menus that suit any occasion. With a maximum conference capacity of 200 guests, Down Hall serves as one of the largest meeting and event venues in Bishop’s Stortford. The hotel is located just 15 minutes from Stansted Airport in Essex and 45 minutes from central London, making it a popular destination for team building, training, and more. With such a comprehensive suite of amenities underneath one roof, and exclusive deals running each week, Down Hall has been rightfully awarded the Corporate Retreat Excellence Award 2025. The hotel’s offerings will be further enhanced in the upcoming year, as April 2026 marks the launch of the newly renovated Charles Garden. Created by Hicks & Hart, the breathtaking half-acre is designed for large-scale outdoor ceremonies, with a wide lawn capable of seating up to 180 guests for gatherings, and is the ideal location for drinks receptions, product launches, networking events, and simply bringing teams together to connect with each other and the surrounding countryside. From its serene spas to its corporate capabilities, every aspect of Down Hall has been developed to exude luxury, quality, and legacy. The hotel has meticulously designed each offering with the aim of elevating the guest experience, whether catering to a weekend away, a special celebration, or a corporate retreat. This unique versatility, driven by a dedication to the highest standards of service, has earned Down Hall Hotel recognition as England’s Country House Hotel and Spa of the Year 2025. Contact: Jenny Rogers Company: Down Hall Hotel Web Address: www.downhall.co.uk Cradled by 110 acres of stunning countryside, Down Hall Hotel offers its guests a serene space located just 45 minutes from central London. With a storied history that dates back to as early as 1322, the establishment has built a name for blending history, luxury, and natural beauty to deliver exceptional experiences guests will remember for a lifetime. We explored the establishment further, as Down Hall is named in the Best of British Getaways 2025. Country House Hotel & Spa of the Year 2025 - England & Corporate Retreat Excellence Award 2025
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