10 exceptional hotels for a memorable night in the UK

England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland: In the four corners of the United Kingdom, some hotels are definitely more dreamy than others. These are exceptional addresses, as much for the ultra-high standard of service as for the location and, of course, the extraordinary setting.

Of course, you can also expect room prices to be just as out of the ordinary as their establishments. But never mind: while most of us can't possibly spend our entire holiday there, who can't imagine spending even one night in one of these "hotels fit for royalty"?

In this game, only the best 5-star hotels are worthy of consideration. That's why we offer you this selection of 10 top-flight establishments, the very best of the British hotel industry, scattered throughout the United Kingdom, for a journey into luxury and chic.

The finest in British hospitality

- © Ceri Breeze / Shutterstock

Claridge's (London, England)

Our tour of the finest hotels in the UK begins in London. The capital boasts a number of exceptional addresses, including Claridge's, an institution in its own right.

Located in the heart of Mayfair, the Claridge's building is instantly recognisable. The facilities are those of a true palace. Quite simply, the perfect London pied-à-terre.

Claridge's United Kingdom
Booking.com

Claridge's

Spacious, luxurious rooms in one of London's most sumptuous districts
9.6 Exceptional
From
£952
See the offers!

The Merchant Hotel (Belfast, Northern Ireland)

There's no need to go into everything that makes The Merchant Hotel exceptional: the pictures speak for themselves...

Recognised as one of the best hotels in the UK, The Merchant Hotel is a veritable Belfast institution. If you're visiting Northern Ireland's capital, this is the place to stay if you love true luxury.

The Merchant Hotel United Kingdom
Booking.com

The Merchant Hotel

Award-winning 5-star hotel in a Grade I listed historic building
9.2 Fabulous
From
£328
See the offers!

The Gleneagles Hotel (Auchterarder, Scotland)

Scotland isn't all haunted castles and crumbling manor houses, far from it. Like the Gleneagles Hotel, there are also some gleaming hotels offering a very high standard of comfort!

Set in an immense park, the Gleneagles Hotel offers its guests services directly inspired by the favourite activities of the British aristocracy: golf, horse riding, falconry school, dog training and, of course, a complete, ultra-premium spa.

The Gleneagles Hotel United Kingdom
Booking.com

The Gleneagles Hotel

A large luxury complex with elegant rooms and luxurious suites, as well as a golf course.
9.3 Fabulous
From
£482
See the offers!

Roch Castle (Pembrokeshire, Wales)

With its thick walls and dungeon, you wouldn't expect 5-star service from Roch Castle. Yet behind the 12th-century stonework lies a comfortable, modern interior.

Roch Castle welcomes you to the edge of Wales, close to the beautiful Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and its spectacular coastline. The hotel and its region seem to go hand in hand!

Roch Castle United Kingdom

Roch Castle

A 12th-century building on a rocky outcrop overlooking St Brides Bay
9.5 Exceptional
From
£189
See the offers!

Haven Hall Hotel (Isle of Wight)

Welcome to the Isle of Wight, in the very south of the United Kingdom, a charming destination for anyone who likes to combine countryside and sea on holiday. And to add a touch of luxury to all this, there's one address on the island that's a must: the Haven Hall Hotel.

On the Shanklin side of the island, the hotel's superb grounds overlook the sea for a magnificent panoramic view. The ideal place to disconnect from the world.

Roch Castle United Kingdom

Roch Castle

A 12th-century building on a rocky outcrop overlooking St Brides Bay
9.5 Exceptional
From
£189
See the offers!

Fonab Castle Hotel (Pitlochry, Scotland)

Spending the night in a castle always has an effect, especially when you're travelling the roads of Scotland. On the outskirts of Pitlochry, in the heart of the Highlands, the effect is confirmed with the Fonab Castle Hotel!

Recently refurbished, there's no doubting the luxury of this superb 5-star establishment, from the comfort of the rooms to the service in the restaurant and the complete spa.

Fonab Castle Hotel United Kingdom
Booking.com

Fonab Castle Hotel

Set in the picturesque Scottish Highlands, this hotel offers luxurious rooms, panoramic views, wooded gardens and 2 restaurants.
9 Fabulous
From
£354
See the offers!

The Grand (York, England)

In the north of England, York is a charming city, known for its heritage. To discover the city in the best possible conditions, we recommend The Grand, the ultimate reference in the city.

This establishment, where everything seems big and spacious, lives up to its name perfectly. Comfort, impeccable service, spa, restaurant... all this space is perfectly enhanced by the hotel's facilities!

The Grand, York United Kingdom
Booking.com

The Grand, York

5-star hotel offering elegant rooms and a luxury vaulted spa
9
From
£210
See the offers!

Grove of Narberth (Pembrokeshire, Wales)

You have to go off the beaten track to find the Grove of Narberth, nestling in the heart of the rolling Welsh countryside in Pembrokeshire. But don't worry about the isolation, the hotel has 2 very upmarket restaurants, to vary the pleasures.

Set in an eighteenth-century country house surrounded by meadows, the Grove of Narberth offers you a real break in a setting of luxury and greenery.

Grove of Narberth United Kingdom
Booking.com

Grove of Narberth

A luxurious 18th century bucolic "restaurant with rooms" surrounded by meadows
9.5 Exceptional
From
£255
See the offers!

The Witchery by the Castle (Edinburgh, Scotland)

Right in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, the atmosphere at The Witchery by the Castle is quite simply unique.

The hotel has pulled out all the stops to immerse you in a setting from another time, with a touch of medieval fantasy. The decor is no gimmick: the Witchery's services are those of a true 5-star hotel.

The Witchery by the Castle United Kingdom
Booking.com

The Witchery by the Castle

Mysterious rooms furnished in sumptuous style with a Gothic touch
9.2 Fabulous
From
£737
See the offers!

Harbourmaster Hotel (Abaraeron, Wales)

Special mention must be made of the unparalleled charm of the Harbourmaster Hotel, housed in the former harbour offices, a nineteenth-century building tucked away on the coast of Wales in Aberaeron.

An authentic boutique hotel, the emphasis here is on stylish decor and comfort, a warm welcome and the pleasures of the table. In short, the essentials.

Harbourmaster Hotel United Kingdom
Booking.com

Harbourmaster Hotel

The Harbourmaster Hotel offers accommodation with a terrace, free private parking, a restaurant and a bar.
9.4 Fabulous
From
£187
See the offers!
by Editorial Team
Need a hand? take a look at our guide
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Latest news
Edinburgh
Edinburgh to the rhythm of Scottish music
Edinburgh
Visit the Rich Heritage of Scottish Art at the National Galleries of Scotland
Edinburgh
Into Edinburgh National Museum and its fascinating galleries
Edinburgh
Visit Greyfriars kirkyard, the world’s most haunted cemetery
Edinburgh
Explore the Palace of Holyroodhouse
Read more articles
Top destinations