I’ve reached the point where the hotel I stay in matters a lot. Sleep is sacred (yes, I’m dangerously close to becoming the kind of person who travels with their own pillow), but more than that, it’s the atmosphere, aesthetic, and thoughtful design that truly make a stay memorable. For me, interiors aren’t just background - they’re part of the experience.
If you’re passionate about beautiful spaces, carefully curated decor, and inspiring hotel design, this list is for you. I’ve rounded up my top six boutique hotels in the UK that not only delivered serious style but felt like true escapes. Each of these hotels has been a standout stay, with unique interiors that reflect their surroundings and offer a real sense of place.
Whether you’re planning a design-forward weekend away or simply looking for some boutique hotel inspiration, these are, in my opinion, some of the best hotels in the UK for interior design lovers.
The Bear Inn, Hodnet
Sitting proudly in the heart of Hodnet, The Bear Inn continues to offer the sanctuary it’s long been known for-its charm rooted in centuries of history. With timber-framed architecture, crackling fires, low-beamed ceilings, and a series of intimate, interlinked rooms, the inn has preserved its rich character while embracing a thoughtful, contemporary reinvention.
Following an extensive renovation, The Bear has been beautifully reimagined by the owners. With interiors by acclaimed designer Octavia Dickinson the inn now marries heritage with modern comfort in every detail.
At the heart of The Bear’s growing reputation is its culinary excellence. In just two years, the talented team have earned a coveted spot in the Michelin Guide and been awarded two AA Rosettes -a testament to their inventive, ingredient-led cooking and exceptional consistency.
Every element of The Bear Inn is shaped by a dedication to quality, warmth, and atmosphere. Whether you're here for a quiet weekend escape, a special meal, or simply a well-poured pint by the fire, the team is committed to making your experience feel special from the moment you arrive.
No 15, Bath
Tucked away on one of Bath’s most elegant streets, this hotel isn’t just a place to stay - it’s an experience that captures everything this remarkable city has to offer. No 15 is housed within beautifully preserved Georgian buildings, the hotel blends historic charm with playful, artful design. Every corner feels thoughtfully curated, with eye-catching interiors and a collection of art and objects that surprise and delight.
The vibe? Effortlessly British, from the unique offerings at the bar to the warm hospitality of the staff, who strike the perfect balance between professional and personal. The spa is a true sanctuary, offering an authentic escape for those in need of a little restoration. It’s clear the team here has thought about what makes a stay memorable-and they’ve delivered.
The Rose, Deal
If you're dreaming of a seaside escape with serious style, The Rose in Deal might just be your perfect getaway. Recently crowned Best Boutique Hotel of 2025 by The Times, this former pub-turned-design-haven is where vintage charm meets coastal cool-with a killer restaurant to match.
Each of the Rose’s eight bedrooms has its own bold personality: think vibrant colour palettes, plush beds you’ll never want to leave, vintage finds, and modern comforts. All rooms come with sleek private bathrooms- walk-in showers are standard, and the larger rooms spoil you with freestanding tubs and TVs for lazy mornings or post-beach lounging.
Every stay includes thoughtful touches: a hearty breakfast, a complimentary brandy nightcap, and even a tandem bike to cruise around Deal like a local. And if you're after a little wellness alongside the indulgence, don’t miss The Pelican Rooms - the hotel’s own boutique yoga studio and treatment space, just a minute’s walk away in a beachfront townhouse. It’s the perfect spot to reset before heading back to the buzz of the bar or another incredible dinner.
Stylish, unpretentious, and full of soul, The Rose is exactly the kind of place that turns a weekend away into a new favourite tradition.
No 1 Bruton, Bruton
Nestled in the charming town of Bruton, Number One Bruton is more than just a hotel-it’s a beautifully restored slice of Somerset history. Once part of a medieval coaching inn, this thoughtfully transformed Georgian townhouse, forge, and row of old cottages now form a twelve-bedroom retreat set around a sun-drenched courtyard designed by none other than garden legend Penelope Hobhouse.
There’s a rare kind of magic here: a deep reverence for craftsmanship, local heritage, and quiet beauty. Every corner tells a story - from original stonework to carefully chosen furnishings-each detail celebrating the region’s rich artisanal traditions. The result is a warm, elegant space that feels at once sophisticated and deeply grounded in place.
Whether you’re escaping the city or exploring Somerset’s cultural heartland, Number One offers a stay that feels both indulgent and intimate. The courtyard alone is worth lingering in-tranquil, green, and brimming with character. Step inside, and you’ll find a building that’s been alive for over 500 years, lovingly reimagined for the modern traveler.
It’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve checked out.
Big House on the Hill, Llangedwyn, Wales
Not exactly a hotel but one not to miss if you are looking for a group booking location. Perched high above the Tanat Valley, The Big House on the Hill - a charming translation of its original Welsh name, Plas Uchaf-lives up to every word of its title. Built around 1730, this grand Georgian retreat offers a stay that blends timeless elegance with modern comfort, all set against the backdrop of sweeping valley views and four acres of beautifully landscaped gardens.
From the moment you turn onto the long, private drive, it feels like you’re entering a different world. The house unfolds over three generous floors, sleeping up to 14 guests across seven unique bedrooms, each with its own bathroom - ideal for family gatherings, celebrations, or retreats with friends. Inside, historic character abounds: think sash windows, antique furnishings, rich fabrics, and curious artwork sourced from all over the globe. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, some delightful design detail will catch your eye.
Outside, the gardens are made for slow days and long evenings. A sprawling lawn perfect for croquet, a six-seater hot tub with valley views, and a dining terrace just outside the French doors invite you to linger. Whether you’re lounging in the sunshine, dining under the stars, or exploring the quirky corners of the house, this place is full of personality and promise.
The London and Paris Hotel, Folkstone
For those seeking a refined yet unpretentious seaside retreat, The London and Paris Hotel in Folkestone offers a sophisticated base from which to explore Kent’s historic coastline. Perfectly positioned near the beach, this boutique-style property is just a short drive from some of the region’s most iconic landmarks, including Dover Castle, the White Cliffs of Dover, and Port Lympne Wild Animal Park.
Housed in a building full of character, the hotel’s 11 individually styled guest rooms strike a balance between classic comfort and modern convenience. With plush sitting areas, complimentary Wi-Fi, elegant bathrooms complete with luxury toiletries, and thoughtful in-room amenities like electric kettles, your stay is designed to feel effortlessly comfortable and quietly indulgent.
Begin your mornings with a proper English breakfast served in an inviting setting (available on weekends), and wind down your evenings at The Harbour Inn, the hotel’s intimate bar and dining space, perfect for a relaxed drink or a satisfying meal after a day of coastal exploration.
With attentive 24-hour service and an ideal location just minutes from the seafront, The London and Paris Hotel invites you to slow down, breathe in the sea air, and enjoy the charm of Folkestone in refined comfort.
Did I miss one that you love? Let me know, I'm always on the look out to my best designed hotels wish list!
