The 10 top escapes to the country

There’s no greater cure for the stresses of city-living than spending time in the great outdoors. It’s time to break free from the confines of our flats and homes and take a little rest and relaxation in the countryside. There is an incredible array of UK country breaks available, from luxury spas to beautiful manor houses. We’ve picked 10 of the best around Britain for those of you who want to staycation rather than vacation this summer.

1. Grantley Hall

The grand suites of Grantley Hall are the ultimate in countryside luxury. Spacious, stunning and set within spectacular grounds in the Yorkshire Dales, Grantley is a fantastic getaway for those seeking a lush, tranquil country escape. With four restaurants, including Michelin-starred Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall, and five bars to relax in, there are plenty of opportunities to indulge before relaxing in the Three Graces Spa afterwards.

Visit grantleyhall.co.uk

2. Fraser’s Farm, Egerton

At the heart of Kent lies this idyllic, rural accommodation that will make you feel you’re returning to a simpler way of life, without compromising that holiday feeling. This 300-acre farm has seven unique suites to choose from, as well as a  2 AA Rosette restaurant serving up delicious food with the finest local ingredients. The suites boast adorable, modern cottage decor in a fantastic country setting.

Visit frasersegerton.co.uk

3. Gleneagles, Perthshire

Referred to as ‘the glorious playground’, the landscape of Gleneagles lends itself to all sorts of country pursuits, from golf to game shooting. Set within the stunning Scottish countryside, the hotel offers beautiful accommodation and incomparable hospitality in its many restaurants and bars. Kick back and enjoy a dram after a thrilling day stalking the hills, or unwind in the wellness spa to enjoy a truly relaxing holiday break.

Visit gleneagles.com

4. Carey’s Manor, Brockenhurst

Celebrating the wonders of the forest, Carey’s Manor has beautifully decorated, cosy rooms and a Thai-inspired spa to help you unwind in nature. The red, 18th century manor house is jaw-droppingly beautiful and a four poster bed allows you to fully relax in the lap of luxury.

Visit careysmanor.com

5. Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Oxfordshire

It doesn’t sound particularly British, but this English hotel with a French accent is nestled within the incredible Oxfordshire countryside. Expect haute cuisine in a sprawling chateau from your stay at Le Manoir. The hotel is the brainchild of chef Raymond Blanc OBE, and his realised vision is nothing short of astounding. Two Michelin stars and showstopping views will make you feel you’ve escaped to the French countryside, not your own.

Visit belmond.com

6. Gidleigh Park, South Devon

This award-winning luxury manor set in Dartmoor, Devon provides first-class hospitality and breathtaking rural scenery. Enjoy a tier of afternoon scones in the manor’s lush grounds, go fly-fishing, or enjoy a round of golf in this exquisite hideaway. Not only is Gidleigh’s food impeccable, but it also boasts an internationally renowned wine cellar with 13,000 bottles from around the world.

Visit gidleigh.co.uk

7. The Ryebeck, Cumbria

Where better to appreciate Britain’s natural lakes than Cumbria? Nestled in a leafy clearing above the water’s edge is the Ryebeck, a country house boasting fantastic food and a friendly welcome. The Ryebeck has panoramic views of glorious Windermere, outrageously good food and even some dog-friendly rooms so you can bring your furry friend along for the jaunt.

Visit ryebeck.com

8. Cliveden House, Hampshire

Charlie Chaplin and Churchill were both big fans of Cliveden, and there’s no doubt you will be too. A National Trust jewel in the Berkshire countryside, this five-star hotel has 44 rooms and 15 suites to choose from and the world-renowned Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa to relax in. Known for housing scandalous political affairs and entertaining generations of big personalities, this Hampshire hideaway is the rural touch of glamour we all crave.

Visit clivedenhouse.co.uk

9. Stone House Hotel, North Yorkshire

Built in a gorgeous valley in North Yorkshire, near the quaint market town of Hawes, this elegantly furnished house is perfect for a country escape in the Dales. The ivy-draped 17th-century manor is impressive outside and inside, and nearby sites of interest such as Hardraw Falls and the Pennine Way will keep you busy when you go exploring.

Visit stonehousehotel.co.uk

10. Wroxall Abbey Hotel, Warwickshire

It might look like a perfect, life-size doll’s house, but the Wroxall Abbey Hotel & Spa is a real-life retreat for weary city folk. This beautiful, historic building dates back to the 11th century and boasts 32 acres of lush greenery. Its restaurant is named after King Henry VIII, and although the portion sizes have changed since royal banquet days, the love of food and feasting has not. The Wroxhall spa is due to open in 2021 and will have an indoor swimming pool, sauna room, steam room, and an icefall room.

Visit wroxall-abbeyhotel.com

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