Visit the Best Inns, Hotels in England, Scotland and Wales

Posted by Tess Kirkpatrick on Dec 18th, 2008 and filed under Travel and Leisure. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

From the wind-swept moors to the Scottish highlands, the United Kingdom is a diverse land – both in culture and geography. You’ll discover quaint villages, castles, museums, galleries and much more.

You might begin your trip in London, one of the world’s great cities. There’s plenty to occupy your time, of exploring in and around the city – from visits to museums, historic churches, the infamous Tower of London, Windsor Castle and the attractions of Kent and Sussex. Venture into the countryside and England offers plenty of other interesting trips, from treks through the Lake District to a trip through southwest England that includes visits to Bath, Cornwall and Devon. Wales and its capitol city of Cardiff are a fun destination, worthy of a trip, but often overlooked by travelers. Scotland, with its rich history and beautiful scenery is equally interesting. Spend a few days in Edinburgh, wind along the famous Whisky Trail or even try to catch a photograph of the illusive beast of Loch Ness.

Travel writer Karen Brown has explored the United Kingdom and created several interesting itineraries for travelers to this exciting region. Her detailed plans include places to visit, as well as maps and traveling tips. Her readers also have voted and chosen the following lodgings as the best in England, Scotland and Wales:

These three countries are a romantic land — a land of inspiration for a myriad of famous poets and writers. If it is romance you want, try the Gilpin Lodge, which was chosen by Karen Brown readers as England, Wales and Scotland’s “Most Romantic” lodging choice. Located in England’s Lake District National Park, the inn rests on 20 acres of gardens, woods and moors. The rooms are elegant, and each has been decorated individually. Every room offers a charming view of the gardens or moors. Spa treatments, such as massage with aromatherapy oils, can be arranged in the privacy of your room. Guests also enjoy privileges at a local “leisure club,” which has a pool, sauna, steam room and fully equipped gym. Four rooms comprise the award-winning restaurant’s dining areas. There is also a bar and afternoon tea is served in the lounge.

With its excellent location, charming decor and hospitable innkeepers, it’s little wonder that Karen Brown readers have chosen Bolhays Bed and Breakfast as England, Wales and Scotland’s for lodging’s “Warmest Welcome.” The bed & breakfast’s delightful English guest rooms are located in a historic, 1899 Victorian townhouse that is just a 10-minute walk from Salisbury Cathedral, a 13th-century wonder that is a highlight of a visit to this wonderful English town. Stonehenge is just a short drive away, and there are plenty of nearby shops and pubs, including one that has been in operation since the 14th century. The innkeepers prepare a hearty, homemade English breakfast each morning for their guests. Their knowledge of the surrounding area makes them a valuable resource for those planning day trips in and around Salisbury.

Bath, a popular destination and the only city in England named a World Historic Site in its entirety, is home to Meadowland, an appealing bed and breakfast that was named by Karen Brown readers as offering the region’s “Greatest Value.” The three guest rooms of the bed and breakfast are elegant and inviting. Innkeeper, Catherine Andrew, prepares a wonderful homemade breakfast, sometimes including traditional specialties from her native Scotland. The center of Bath is a 15- to 20-minute walk away, and from Meadowland one can plan plenty of interesting day trips, such as visits to the cathedral cities of Wells and Salisbury or perhaps Blaise Castle.

Set on more than 100 acres in Hampshire, Chewton Glen offers all the amenities of a top resort with all the historic ambiance of a proper English country estate. Guest rooms and suites are individually decorated in a variety of styles from contemporary to romantic English country. The Marryat Suite is particularly captivating with its posh sitting area, fireplace and elegant furnishings. The Masterman Ready Suite is another opulent option featuring modern dcor and a clawfoot, soaking tub. Afternoon tea includes the hotel’s own blend of tea, as well as a selection of fine sweets and savories. Dinner and lunch at the restaurant feature ever-changing seasonal menus with items such as fillet of Scottish beef or line-caught sea bass. This posh country inn was named as the region’s top “Splendid Splurge” by Karen Brown readers.

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