The Wheatsheaf Inn
The 14 uniquely designed bedrooms at this lovely Cotswolds getaway present a stylish and soothing modern aesthetic, artfully complementing the heritage details that have been lovingly retained at this 17th-century coaching inn. From the exposed brickwork to wooden beams, a sense of the building’s long past is ever-present. However, these architectural touches of old rub shoulders with thoroughly modern luxuries – Bramley toiletries, fluffy bathrobes and Nespresso machines are standard in each room, and provide comforts to enjoy while you bask in the hotel’s history. Rooms start from £135 per night. cotswoldswheatsheaf.com
Buittle Castle
This grand 12th-century castle in south west Scotland has seen its share of turbulent Scottish events play out around its sturdy stone walls over the centuries. Today, however, the seat of the Baron of Buittle lives a quieter existence, hosting private events, tours, afternoon teas, dinners, and overnight stays. The place has been sensitively restored, including the 16th-century Great Hall. Opulent, historically sympathetic B&B rooms offer a sense of the building’s rich heritage, alongside all the up-to-date comfort and warm hospitality one could hope for in a contemporary stay. Rooms start from £95 per night. buittlecastle.co.uk
The George in Rye
Occupying a suitably picturesque position on the cobbled High Street of Rye in East Sussex, The George is a Grade II-listed jewel that effortlessly combines fine design, historic character and immaculate hospitality. The building dates back to 1575, and in its current iteration it retains a host of authentic features, right down to a Georgian ballroom. These sit happily alongside antique furniture and fresh design touches, creating a pleasing blend of old and new. The effect is at once lavish and laid back, and makes for a comfortable stay that’s steeped in a tangible sense of bygone eras. Rooms start from £125 per night. thegeorgeinrye.com
Chilston Park
The origins of Chilston Park in Kent go back to 1100, but the house in its present form is primarily the work of the 3rd Viscount Chilston in the 19th century. The building still bears evidence of the changes and additions that it’s seen over the centuries, and this fascinating backdrop is further enhanced by graceful styling throughout. An array of carefully selected antiques add to the hotel’s charm, and each of the 53 bedrooms has its own individual appeal. Meanwhile, the in-house restaurant (with two AA rosettes), Culpeper’s, is based in the original dining room, and retains a wealth of period details. Rooms start from £155 per night. handpickedhotels.co.uk/chilstonpark
Bovey Castle
Though its architecture has a distinctly Jacobean feel, the lavishly designed Bovey Castle was originally built in 1907 for Frederick Smith, son of stationery magnate William Henry Smith, to host the family’s country retreats. In 1917, the building was used as a hospital to treat wounded soldiers during the First World War, before being bought by Great Western Railway and opening as a hotel and golf resort in 1930. Between the grand Grade II-listed building, its spectacular Dartmoor setting and its 60 sumptuously dressed rooms, it makes for a wonderfully atmospheric five-star stay. Rooms start from £173 per night. boveycastle.com
The Stevenson House
If you like the idea of stepping in the footsteps of a literary great, The Stevenson House makes a unique stay in Edinburgh. Originally Robert Louis Stevenson’s home, today this elegant Georgian building remains almost exactly as it was when the author lived here. John and Felicitas Macfie occupy and thoughtfully maintain the place, offering two rooms on a B&B basis. There’s a cosy twin, plus the double room which was occupied by Robert Louis’ parents. This boasts a four-poster bed, William Morris wallpaper and an en-suite, including the original Victorian bath installed by the Stevensons. Rooms start from £160 per night. stevenson-house.com
