The United Kingdom is known for quite a few things – the Royal Family, Sherlock Holmes, and the Beatles, among others. It’s no secret that thousands of tourists visit the UK every year, and if you’re here, you’re probably exploring all the options regarding luxury hotels in the United Kingdom. Whether you’re on the quest for a tranquil castle hotel in the Scottish Highlands, a glamorous luxury boutique hotel in central London, or a secluded resort in Northern Ireland, we’ve got you covered.
This article will explore the best luxury hotels across multiple countries, providing you with a definitive list of the most lavish and spectacular hotels found in this momentous kingdom.
- London, England
The Ritz London
Committed to delivering excellent service and luxurious dwelling in cities all over the world, Cesar Ritz opened The Ritz London back in 1906. The hotel has been operating and thriving for more than a century, so let’s explore what it has to offer for its guests.
Check AvailabilitySituated in Piccadilly, overlooking Green Park, the hotel is ideal for anyone who wants to stay in the heart of London. The lively Soho area is only a short walk away, much like the affluent area of Mayfair, which can be reached within minutes. The Royal Academy of Arts, a must-see place for people who appreciate fine art, is just a three-minute walk away.
With over 100 accommodation options to choose from, you’re bound to find a room or suite tailored to your liking. Each is decorated in a Louis XVI style that oozes opulence and grandeur, serving modern amenities like air-conditioning and Wi-Fi. Some of the carefully selected details include prestigious antiques, fresh flowers, large fireplaces, and fancy chandeliers.
One striking feature of The Ritz London is the captivating live piano music that can be heard from the common rooms, only emphasizing the sophisticated atmosphere of the hotel. The long list of services and amenities ensures that your stay will be as seamless as possible.
The award-winning hairstylist Hiro Miyoshi works at the Ritz Salon, where you can glam up before exploring The Swinging City. Treatments and facials are also available. Don’t like exploring on foot? You have the option of hiring your own chauffeur who will take you anywhere you want in a glamorous Rolls Royce.
Chef John Williams at the Michelin-starred Ritz Restaurant guarantees a party for your taste buds. Traditional British cuisine is served with the freshest of ingredients, resulting in ambrosial meals. Book a five-course or seven-course meal, served with an impeccable wine selection. We all know that you can’t visit England without tasting a proper English afternoon tea, so make sure you book one ahead of time at Ritz.
The price for a double room at Ritz London starts at $650 a night.
- London, England
The Connaught
In a perfect display of British elegance and style, The Connaught is one of the most eminent luxury hotels in the United Kingdom. Located in Mayfair, the highly sought after area of London, it allows for a luxurious holiday that will keep you close to the main attractions in this metropolis.
Check AvailabilityOxford Street, the main shopping district in London where you can find brands in the likes of John Lewis, Chanel, and Armani, is a mere five-minute ride away. Care for a little time off in nature? Hyde Park is a five-minute walk away, where you can see some popular London sights featured in many a movie while soaking in the lush scenery.
The Connaught presents the perfect mix of old school glamour (which London is known for) and contemporary sophistication. The common areas feature tasteful traditional touches: ligneous furnishings, polished floors, crimson carpets, and cozy fireplaces. The rooms, on the other hand, have a minimalistic yet chic design with a white or neutral color palette. Large living areas with crystal chandeliers, French windows that allow for the perfect amount of natural light to come in, grand pianos, and walls adorned with contemporary paintings are some of the charming stylistic choices you can expect to find at The Connaught. The bathrooms are commodious and consist of graceful white marble fixtures, a plasma TV, and a walk-in shower.
One of the many positive sides to staying at The Connaught is their outstanding service. Guests are granted a butler from the time of check-in, on top of having access to many concierge services. The Aman Spa, with its myriad of healing treatments to choose from, guarantees a relaxing break from sightseeing and shopping, while the indoor pool and fitness center will help you get a quick endorphin rush.
The real treat of staying at The Connaught is their restaurants and bars, including the two Michelin-starred Hélène Darroze. The Connaught Bar’s martinis are a favorite for both guests and local Londoners, so make sure you sample one while staying there. Celebrities like Taylor Swift and Cameron Diaz have been seen at The Connaught, so don’t be surprised if you bump into a similar crowd.
You can get a double room starting at $670 a night.
- London, England
The Savoy
Stepping into The Savoy will make you feel as if you’ve gone back in time to a lavish party in a 19th-century mansion. Celebrities like Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and Sir Winston Churchill are part of The Savoy’s renowned guest list.
Check AvailabilityA short walk from The Savoy will take you to The British Museum where you can see the Rosetta Stone in person. Other highlights include the Parthenon Marbles and Egyptian mummies, so if history, architecture, and art are your cup of tea, it’s definitely worth a visit. The Royal Opera House and Covent Garden are only a five-minute walk away, so you will have many restaurants and luxury shops within your reach.
The style of this highly celebrated hotel relies heavily on tradition without appearing outdated. The enormous entrance hall is filled with antique furniture, framed oil paintings, fresh flowers, and gold details. The color scheme in the 265 rooms and suites is understated, mostly relying on beige and white, yet it resonates with old-school splendor. Dark wooden furniture and golden touches serve as a tasteful pop of color. Splendid views of the Thames are featured in some of the rooms, which is a real treat, particularly during the nocturnal hours.
The Savoy has been around since 1889, so you can expect world-class service from its dedicated staff. Home to some of the most popular dining hotspots in London, guests can enjoy luscious cuisine at Gordon Ramsay’s Savoy Grill, Kaspar’s, Thames Foyer, and Simpson’s In the Strand. Traditional British cuisine is served, prepared with fresh and local ingredients. Afternoon tea is available upon request.
A couple options for bars are available as well, including American Bar – Britain’s oldest surviving cocktail bar. Some signature cocktails include Somewhere Sailin’, I Love You – inspired by its frequent guest Frank Sinatra, and Electric Lover, a palpable reference to Prince.
Double rooms start at $720 per night.
- London, England
The Lanesborough
The Lanesborough, a prominent five-star luxury hotel, part of the Oetker Collection, is located in Knightsbridge, overlooking Hyde Park. Many of London’s landmarks like The British Museum, the Science Museum, and Buckingham Palace can be easily reached on foot, making it an ideal location for anyone who prioritizes sightseeing, exploring, and likes visiting historic museums and galleries.
Check AvailabilityThe hotel is designed in an impressive Neoclassical style reminiscent of the 18th century period. Although the build is unassuming on the outside, the interior of this hotel is palatial, making you feel as though you’ve stepped in a palace as opposed to a hotel.
Similarly, the suites feature large living room areas with sleek curtains, crystal chandeliers, classical paintings, and an impressive library, keeping a homely vibe throughout. The color palette is different in every suite, so feel free to pick your favorite color when booking. Many modern commodities are included in each suite, including a large TV, coffee and tea making facilities, and remote-controlled temperature and lighting.
The service at The Lanesborough is nothing short of applaudable. Concierge services including a butler are available on-demand, so you can rest assured knowing all of your needs will be catered to. Some facilities that can be enjoyed in the hotel include a world-class spa, a fitness center, a sauna, and a pool.
The Michelin-starred Céleste restaurant will welcome you in a romantic and glamorous atmosphere. Merging traditional British dishes with European touches, Céleste is a culinary paradise for anyone who likes to relish in fine dining while on holiday. From the standard full English breakfast, to delicious dinners served with impeccable wine, the restaurant has it all, and its elegant setting is perfect for an afternoon tea. The Library Bar offers an impressive selection of Cognacs and spirits.
Guests of The Lanesborough can get a double room from $770 a night.
- Manchester, England
Hotel Gotham
Hotel Gotham is regarded as one of the best luxury hotels in the United Kingdom due to its quirky, fun, yet glamorous nature. This renowned hotel has a prime location right on King Street, so guests can easily access the best tourist attractions in the city on foot. The Manchester Art Gallery is only a short walk away, just like the Arndale Shopping Centre.
Check AvailabilityHotel Gotham’s Art Deco style makes it stand out from other hotels in the area. The rooms are decorated in a dark color palette, with just a few touches of bright colors. The furniture differs from room to room, but you can expect to find pieces that are more on the quirkier side, such as trunk tables and leather walls. The floor-to-ceiling windows present in every room offer spectacular views of Manchester. En-suite marble bathrooms are included, with complimentary toiletries, slippers, bathrobes, and Gotham sinks.
The staff at Hotel Gotham are particularly friendly and welcoming, always insisting on providing the best service to its guests. Some facilities included at the hotel are parking, laundry service, a restaurant, and a bar. Sadly, a spa and a gym aren’t included on its list of services.
Honey, the on-site restaurant with granted AA Rosettes, is a real culinary treat. Make sure you sample the Gotham Delice, the Sea Bass, and the Summer Tart. Some seating arrangements provide a breathtaking view of the city, so make sure you book ahead if this is a priority for you.
The rates at Hotel Gotham start at $150 a night.
- Colerne, England
The Lucknam Park Hotel
Located in the southern Cotswolds, The Lucknam Park is an 18th-century Palladian mansion that has been operating since 1987. It features 43 lavish bedrooms and 13 suites, perfect for a secluded escape in nature. Surrounded by extensive and flourishing gardens, it makes for an ideal escape from the hubbub of city life.
Check AvailabilityPlenty of leisure activities are available for guests at The Lucknam Park, including horseback riding and a relaxing break at their renowned spa featuring products from Carita and ESPA. For anyone who likes to take up slightly more exhilarating activities, there are two tennis courts, as well as mountain bike rentals which give you the perfect opportunity to explore the surrounding English countryside.
The interior of The Lucknam Park is akin to a set of Downton Abbey. From a big library with an endless list of hardback classics to explore, antique armchairs, classical portraits, and a grand fireplace, to an outdoor pool overlooking the spectacular nature; the common rooms at The Lucknam Park are exactly like you’d imagine from an 18th century English mansion.
The rooms and suites follow a traditional style, featuring golden mirrors, silky duvets and bedframes, stunning views, and spacious white marble bathrooms.
Lucknam Park’s Michelin-starred Hywel Jones is a real treat. Guests get to enjoy delicious meals made with fresh ingredients in a sophisticated and elegant setting. The Brasserie is another dining option at the hotel, providing a tranquil and romantic ambience for those who prefer more casual restaurants. The hotel also offers an unforgettable picnic experience, where you get to enjoy freshly prepared meals in the beautiful gardens.
Double rooms start at $560 a night.
- Berkshire, England
Cliveden House
Set in serene Berkshire, Cliveden House is part of the National Trust and has been around since the 17th century, making it one of the most renowned luxury hotels in the United Kingdom. Temporary home to many celebrities and royalty, including Megan Markle, Cliveden House promises to give a first-class treatment and a splendid service to its guests.
Check AvailabilityThis striking country house is surrounded by vast lush gardens, adding to the charm of the hotel. Combining contemporary luxury with Victorian grandeur, Cliveden House offers the best of both worlds. The Great Hall, with its dimmed ambience, precious antiques, portraits, opulent chandeliers, and crimson furnishings, will make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time a couple of centuries.
A similar style extends to the suites at Cliveden House, where guests have access to amazing features such as a hot tub, antique furniture, a cozy fireplace, and big, comfortable beds. Different suites come with different views – the Thames, the surrounding gardens and beyond.
The Cliveden Dining Room is a great place to enjoy British cuisine in a lavish setting. Some menu highlights include a truffle risotto, twice-baked cheese soufflé, and pineapple carpaccio. An extensive wine list is another treat for its guests. The delicious afternoon tea is an experience in and of itself, so make sure you try it.
At Cliveden House, the price per night for a double room starts at $670.
- Narberth, Wales
The Grove of Narberth
Situated near the tranquil and picturesque town of Narberth, overlooking the Preseli Mountains, this charming 18th-century luxury country house is ideal for an escape in nature in style.
Check AvailabilityThe grounds of The Grove of Narberth feature woodland, gardens, and extensive lawns, so you will never be short of places to explore. For a little city break, visit the nearby town of Narberth, where you can visit local shops and restaurants, while the renowned Pembrokeshire National Park is only a five-minute drive away from the hotel.
Grove of Narberth’s style is the perfect mix of rustic chic and Georgian glamour. The snug lounge, with its ornate fireplace and comfortable armchairs and sofas, will make you feel extra cozy, especially during the fall and winter months. The bedrooms vary in terms of style; some are more traditional, while others are decorated in a sophisticated, modern style. Charming touches of Welsh culture are spread throughout the accommodation, such as Welsh rugs and artwork.
Two restaurants are located on the property: The Fernery and the Artisan Rooms. The former was granted three prestigious AA Rosettes that serves as a testament of its quality. It offers a sophisticated and intimate ambience that mashes well with its elegant dishes. Executive chef Douglas Balish relies on fresh and local produce in order to bring his guests only the best Welsh cuisine has to offer.
Artisan Rooms is the more relaxed option of the two, perfect for casual lunches and dinners. Similarly to The Fernery, the menu is composed of local produce, and guests can enjoy the delicious meals in the beautiful garden during the summer months.
You can get a double room starting at $335 a night.
- Edinburgh, Scotland
The Balmoral
The Balmoral, with its distinctive architecture and picturesque clock tower, stands as a city landmark on its own. Just as impressive on the inside, its palatial style extends from the common rooms to the suites and rooms, making it one of the best luxury hotels in the United Kingdom.
Check AvailabilityThe view from your accommodation will differ depending on what room/suite you book; for spectacular city views, book the Deluxe or Executive Suite. The suites are spacious and captivating, with marble bathrooms, homey fireplaces, plush sofas, and harmonious paintings.
Located right on Princes Street, the main shopping district in Edinburgh, The Balmoral’s prime location will make it easy for you to check off any attractions off of your sightseeing list. The hotel is only a couple minutes away from the Scott Monument, the National Gallery, and Edinburgh’s Old Town where the castle is situated.
There are a plethora of services and facilities available for guests of The Balmoral. Its esteemed spa offers many Rocco Forte Rituals that are bound to energize you, while the gym and indoor pool will make it easy for you to get your daily exercise in. As you can imagine, the staff is professional and welcoming, dedicated to delivering world-class service.
The Balmoral’s Michelin-starred Number One restaurant delivers modern Scottish cuisine with an international twist, courtesy of head chef Mark Donald. The fine dining experience is made that much more enjoyable thanks to the outstanding artwork and design of the restaurant, featuring pieces lent by London’s Royal College of Art.
Apart from Michelin-star restaurants, The Balmoral allows you to sample award-winning afternoon tea, which is certainly a must when traveling to Scotland. The hotel bars provide an extensive list of spirits to choose from, including over 500 whiskies.
Rooms at The Balmoral start at $270 per night.
- Edinburgh, Scotland
Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian
The Caledonian is one of the most celebrated buildings in Edinburgh, which comes as no surprise when we consider its impressive list of celebrity guests, including Bing Crosby, Elizabeth Taylor, Charlie Chaplin, and Burt Lancaster.
Check AvailabilityIts suites are named after prominent Scottish authors like Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, keeping the Scottish tradition alive. Some of the rooms and suites feature a breathtaking view of the historic castle.
All accommodation options at The Caledonian come with a Nespresso machine, comfortable and large beds, a flat-screen TV, and commodious bathrooms with complimentary Ferragamo toiletries.
Concierge services are available at all times, while its world-class Guerlain Spa (the only one in Britain) gives guests a chance to relish in a relaxing escape. A large swimming pool and fitness area are also included in the exhaustive list of facilities offered at The Caledonian.
Fine dining featuring local Scottish cuisine is available at the award-winning Grazing by Mark Greenaway restaurant. Here you can savor uniquely crafted yet supremely tasty dishes in a lavish setting and a welcoming environment. The glamorous Peacock Alley restaurant is the second dining option at the hotel, where you can also book an afternoon tea. For drinks and custom cocktails, visit The Caley Bar; we guarantee that you will be impressed by its Victorian décor and charm.
The rates differ depending on when you’re booking your holiday, but the average rates for a double room start at $215 at night.
- Highlands, Scotland
Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Inverlochy Castle Hotel, a five-star luxury accommodation hidden deep in the Highlands, has been operating for more than two centuries. Some of its frequent guests include Sean Connery, Anthony Hopkins, and even Queen Victoria.
Check AvailabilityNestled under Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles, this gorgeous hotel is surrounded by breathtaking scenery and fog-covered mountains. The picturesque town Fort William is a short drive away, where you can get a bite to eat or browse some of the local shops.
Inverlochy Castle Hotel’s captivating style merges traditional décor with grandiose details, resulting in a distinctive style. You can choose between various individually styled rooms, all of which come with a TV, spacious bathrooms, and large beds with silky coverings.
Plenty of tours and activities are available for guests, ensuring that your stay is exciting and fun and all times, including photography tours, wildlife and scenic tours, mountain biking, and hiking.
Inverlochy Castle Hotel features a bar where you can order fiery whiskies to keep you warm all year round. Dining-wise, guests have access to Albert and Michel Roux Jr at Inverlochy Castle, a lavish restaurant where you can sample scrumptious British cuisine sprinkled with French influences. Choose between three dining rooms decorated with lavish antiques and, most impressively, gifted furniture from the King of Norway.
Price-wise, double rooms start at $700.
- St. Andrews, Scotland
Old Course Hotel
Located in the scenic university town of St. Andrews, Old Course Hotel’s incredible views of the Links Golf Course and West Sands will undoubtedly win you over. Whether you choose to visit the St. Andrews Castle, the Botanic Gardens, the world-renowned university or some of the museums, all local attractions and city gems will be within your reach.
Check AvailabilityThe style of Old Course Hotel is minimalistic, yet classical and elegant. The renovated rooms and suites rely on a mostly white color palette, with sophisticated pops of bright colors. The living room areas are spacious, and every room comes with amazing views of the aforementioned surroundings.
One of the many features Old Course Hotel is renowned for is its Kohler Waters Spa. Many luxurious and healing treatments are available for guests to book, so relaxation and satisfaction are guaranteed. Guests also have access to a fitness center and a pool. Individual and group activities are available for booking, such as knockhill racing, horseback riding, clay shooting, beach kayaking, and land yachting.
Road Hole Restaurant, which was granted 3 AA-Rosettes, brings the best of British cuisine. From haggis to local whiskies, the menu contains all food and drink options synonymous with Scottish cuisine.
Prices at Old Course Hotel start at $350.
- Enniskillen, Northern Ireland
Lough Erne Resort
Located in the scenic university town of St. Andrews, Old Course Hotel’s incredible views of the Links Golf Course and West Sands will undoubtedly win you over. Whether you choose to visit the St. Andrews Castle, the Botanic Gardens, the world-renowned university or some of the museums, all local attractions and city gems will be within your reach.
Check AvailabilityThe style of Old Course Hotel is minimalistic, yet classical and elegant. The renovated rooms and suites rely on a mostly white color palette, with sophisticated pops of bright colors. The living room areas are spacious, and every room comes with amazing views of the aforementioned surroundings.
One of the many features Old Course Hotel is renowned for is its Kohler Waters Spa. Many luxurious and healing treatments are available for guests to book, so relaxation and satisfaction are guaranteed. Guests also have access to a fitness center and a pool. Individual and group activities are available for booking, such as knockhill racing, horseback riding, clay shooting, beach kayaking, and land yachting.
Road Hole Restaurant, which was granted 3 AA-Rosettes, brings the best of British cuisine. From haggis to local whiskies, the menu contains all food and drink options synonymous with Scottish cuisine.
Prices at Old Course Hotel start at $350.
- Belfast, Northern Ireland
The Merchant Hotel
The Merchant Hotel provides award-winning accommodation in Belfast and was granted a 5 AA Red Star, so it’s no surprise that it ended on our list as one of the best luxury hotels in the United Kingdom.
Check AvailabilityLocated on the Cathedral Quarter, a famous area of Belfast known for its lively nightlife and an outstanding selection of restaurants, The Merchant Hotel allows you to explore the nearby attractions on foot, as well as partake in the exciting nightlife without having to worry about finding transport back to your accommodation.
The Merchant Hotel’s style is a charming mix of oriental décor and traditional Victorian stylistic choices, making you feel like you’ve traveled back in time to a different era. The dim lighting in the rooms only adds to the atmosphere, while the portrait paintings are in line with the rest of the furniture.
The king-sized beds in each room are insanely comfy, much like the leather armchairs placed in the living area. En suite marble bathrooms, silky black-out blinds, and a large TV are also included.
Guests can use the well-equipped rooftop gym that features an outdoor hot tub, and a sauna. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy some of the relaxing treatments and massages at their basement spa.
When it comes to dining and drinks, you can choose between many different restaurants and bars, including The Great Room Restaurant, The Cloth Ear, and the Berts Jazz Bar. Some menu highlights include vintage Champagnes, local ales, the Twice Baked Goat’s Cheese Soufflé, and the Profiterole Swans with Vanilla Ice Cream and Chocolate Sauce.
Prices at The Merchant Hotel start at $200 a night.
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