Although London is home to many of the UK’s best restaurants, these incredible places may sway you to book a few nights away on your next trip, or covid-19 staycation and finally explore the English countryside, just like you always said you would.
Why? Because the last thing you want to do after enjoying an indulgent multi-course meal paired with the finest wines is find yourself running for a train or dozing in the back of a taxi, and these places offer their own B&B’s.
There’s nothing quite like the ultimate win of savouring that last mouthful, enjoying a post dinner cocktail and then casually climbing a few stairs to your gorgeous room, with plush bedding.
These spectacular countryside havens offer all the luxury, relaxation and fine Michelin Star dining anyone could ever wish for, with a comfy place to sleep on the side. We’re not saying they’re cheap – but worth it – oh yes…
The Hand and Flowers
You’ll never have pub food like it again. In fact, it’s really hard to call it pub food, even if Tom Kerridge insists it is. Though it’s the only UK pub to hold two Michelin stars, The Hand And Flowers is one of the best deals on food of this quality anywhere to be found.
The set 3-course lunch menu for £29.50 is a winner. If that doesn’t cut it, the pub also offers an À La Carte menu, full dinner service and an incredible Sunday lunch that will put your standard roast beef to shame.
Located in beautiful Marlow, if you choose to make a night of if, you can stay in one of their eleven uniquely stunning bedrooms in cottages just a short walk from the pub.
They offer pick up and drop off for their guests if you’re too full to walk a few minutes, and each booking includes a delicious cooked breakfast in the pub, which you definitely won’t want to miss out on either.
Link: The Hand and Flowers
Paul Ainsworth at No6 – Padstow Townhouse
Whilst technically a little more than having to climb the stairs to hit your pillow, this combination of fine dining and charming accommodation is hard to beat.
Just a short walk from the restaurant, Paul Ainsworth offers the Padstow Townhouse, with six individually styled and well named suites that will have you lapping up the luxury. It’s fair to say that it’s the perfect place to take in this beautiful part of the world.
First, you cannot dine at Paul Ainsworth at No6 without ordering the ‘fairground tale’ for desert, which offers an inventive and insanely refined take on childhood sweet tooth favourites.
With set menus from £34 for 3 courses it’s hard to know which way to go and really -you can’t go wrong. For a real treat though, go for dinner. Book your stay early and reserve your table at the same time. All that’s left is to sit back, enjoy, relax, eat.. and then sleep.
Link: Paul Ainsworth at No6
HRiSHi – Gilpin Hotel & Lake House
Whether you stay in one the hotel’s 25 bedrooms, or the 6 rooms at the separate Lake House, you are in for a rare treat.
Located in the unmatched beauty of the Lake District, it’s the perfect place to relax and forget the world while enjoying the utmost in luxury and refinement And again, we haven’t even yet mentioned the food.
It’s why we’re here after all – HRiSHi uses fresh, local produce to create truly stunning modern British cuisine with dishes brimming full of bold flavour.
You can choose between, À La Carte menus, tasting menus, plant based menus, and even a fun afternoon tea – there’s something for everyone, even the fussy eaters. No judgement. And yes, the afternoon tea is pretty much mandatory.
Link: HRiSHi
Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons
Spending a night at this quintessential manor house hotel may set you back a fair bit (figure about £500 per night and that’s before the dinner bill), but it will most certainly be a night to remember.
Although it’s just 8 miles from lovely Oxford, it’s so nice – you may not want to leave the grounds as you stroll around the beautiful working gardens and take in the world class spa treatments.
And then of course, there’s the food. Holding two Michelin stars since 1984, chef Raymond Blanc has consistently maintained the highest of standards, with stunning dishes created from the fresh and organic produce in the gardens surrounding the Le Manoir. The menu is just to die for.
Link: Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons
Gravetye Manor
Just 30 miles outside of London, this historic country manor is set on over 1000 acres of countryside, which includes the wonderful gardens where the manors freshly picked produce makes its way onto your dinner plate.
After all, celebrated head chef George Blogg would accept nothing less.
Stay in one of their 17 guest rooms, and after strolling around the effectively endless property, enjoy a fine dining experience unlike any other in Gravetye’s stylish dining room with dishes showcasing the best of everything seasonal. It’s definitely worth considering a little side trip next time you’re visiting the UK.
Link: Gravetye Manor
Featured image courtesy of Raymond Blanc
