Escape To The Country: The Best Rural Retreats

Posted: 16/10/11

Katie Jones

Follow: Country, Country Hotels, Escape, In The Know, Rural, Staycations, Travel

There's nothing better than a bit of peace and quiet in unspoilt countryside when you want to get away from it all. From grand, stately piles to boutique B&B's, here's our pick of the best rural retreats in the UK. It's time to dig out your wellies and head to the country.

Escape to the country: The best rural retreats

Ffynnon, Snowdonia, Wales
 The USP: This five-star boutique hotel is nestled at the foot of Snowdonia, so expect some of the best views in North Wales from every window of Ffynnon. Bedding down: There are five, cosy bedrooms to choose from, all with king-sized beds and en-suite bathrooms (the Sydney room boasts a TV next to the bath). The rooms are also filled with comfy armchairs perfectly positioned next to the fireplaces for those curling up with a good book afternoons. What's the damage: Rooms start at £112 a night, including breakfast. There is currently a three nights for two special offer on <a href="http://www.mrandmrssmith.com/luxury-hotels/ffynnon?utm_source=PARTNERSHIP&utm_medium=media&utm_campaign=emea_121011_mydaily_ruralhotels" target="_blank">Mr & Mrs Smith</a>. Point me in the right direction: Brynffynnon, Love Lane, Wales, web: <a href="http://www.mrandmrssmith.com/us/luxury-hotels/ffynnon?utm_source=PARTNERSHIP&utm_medium=media&utm_campaign=emea_121011_mydaily_ruralhotels" target="_blank">http://www.ffynnontownhouse.com</a>
Gilpin Lake House, Windermere, Lake District
 The USP: Gilpin House is one of the most luxurious places to stay in Windermere (it has also just been voted the Best AA Hotel of the Year in England). Bedding down: While the junior suites are rather stuffy in style, the garden suites are the ones to book. They are chic and contemporary, but best of all, they have their own private patios, complete with hot tubs. We can't think of a better place to sit back and enjoy the view. What's the damage: Rooms are available from £210, B & B, during the winter months. Point me in the right direction: Crook Road, Windermere, The Lake District, web: <a href="http://www.gilpinlodge.co.uk/index.cfm">http://www.gilpinlodge.co.uk/index.cfm</a>
The High Cabin, Conwy, North Wales
 The USP: If you're looking for remote, this luxurious cabin overlooking the Conwy valley is the place to venture to. The Snowdonia views are best enjoyed from the heated veranda and outdoor hot tub. Bedding down: This one bedroom cabin sleeps two people making it more of a romantic bolthole than some of the more glamorous hotel options. That doesn't mean that The High Cabin slips on the style front. It's chic, cosy and three-miles away from the nearest town. Pure peace and quiet. What's the damage: The cabin can be booked for £195 a night. Point me in the right direction: Conwy, North Wales, web: <a href="http://www.oneoffplaces.co.uk/">http://www.oneoffplaces.co.uk/</a>
Stonefield Castle, Loch Fyne, Scotland
 The USP: A beautiful, converted castle with spectacular views over the famous Loch Fyne and an award-winning restaurant. Bedding down: The decor is definitely Highlands inspired, but each bedroom feels comfortable and cosy; just what you need after braving the elements on a walk around the Loch. What's the damage: Garden View rooms can be booked for £100 per night, including a full Scottish breakfast. Point me in the right direction: Tarbet, West Coast of Scotland, web: <a href="http://www.celticcastles.com/castles/stonefield/">http://www.celticcastles.com/castles/stonefield/</a>
Cavendish Hall, Suffolk
 The USP: This is a beautiful country pile full of history (it was one of John Constable's favourite haunts). Cavendish Hall is as grand as it sounds and sleeps 12, making it the perfect party house. Bedding down: Don't expect cool, contemporary interiors here. It's all about tradition, with dark, wooden floors, open fireplaces and chaise longues in every room. What's the damage: Prices start at over £1,000 for a four night stay at Cavendish Hall. Point me in the right direction: Cavendish, Suffolk, web: <a href="http://www.landmarktrust.org.uk/BuildingDetails/Overview/890/Cavendish_Hall">http://www.landmarktrust.org.uk</a>
The Coach House, Devon
 The USP: There's a heated outdoor pool, tennis court, croquet lawn and a games room in this five bedroom Dartmoor house. Guests won't get bored easily (or need to venture too far away from the house). Bedding down: All the double bedrooms have views over the gardens or the River Tavy valley and four of them boast their own en-suite bathrooms. No need to squabble over the best room here. What's the damage: Prices start at £969 for the week, although look out for seasonal discounts when booking. Point me in the right direction: Buckland Monachorum, near Dartmoor National Park, web: <a href="http://www.bluechipholidays.net">http://www.bluechipholidays.co.uk</a>
A Corner of Eden, Cumbria
 The USP: B&B's don't get cosier than this. A Corner of Eden comes complete with open-lit fires, candelabras and huge, four-poster beds. That's not to mention the home-made cakes on offer all day every day and the spectacular views of the Penine moors (it's a great place to stay if you're a keen walker). Bedding down: There are four bedrooms to choose from (note they aren't all en suite), but the candle-lit champagne baths on offer might make up for that. What's the damage: £130 for one night including breakfast, £120 for two nights. The whole house can be booked for £440 per night. Point me in the right direction: A Corner of Eden, Low Stennerskeugh, Ravenstonedale, Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria, web: <a href="http://www.acornerofeden.co.uk/" target="_blank">http://www.acornerofeden.co.uk/</a>
Limewood House, New Forest
 The USP: It's hard not to be impressed by this medieval manor and it's perfectly manicured gardens. It's an extravagant, beautifully designed New Forest escape, perfect for a weekend of pure indulgence. Bedding down: Whether you're staying in the main house or a forest hideaway suite, expect five-star luxury in all of Limewood's bedrooms. What's the damage: Rooms start at £245 a night. Point me in the right direction: Beaulieu Rd, Lyndhurst, Hampshire, web: <a href="http://www.limewoodhotel.co.uk/" target="_blank">http://www.limewoodhotel.co.uk/</a>