Tucked away in the heart of the Cotswolds is a countryside hotel and spa like no other. Barnsley House has been on my wish list ever since it was named Britain’s Best Bolthole in the prestigious Tatler Spa Awards back in 2010 and as I expected it didn’t disappoint. The brilliant team at Barnsley house encourage guests to do as they please but are a moments notice away should you need a bite to eat or wish to plan activities for your stay.
Stay in Room 19: The Stable Yard Suite
No room is the same at Barnsley house. Each room has its own USP from a private garden terrace, a wet room, or even a jacuzzi tub. We stayed in room 19, a split level spacious suite that was scandalously luxurious. The suites are set apart from the main house and each guest is given a handy torch to light the way when exploring after dark. It’s all very exciting!
There were things that you would expect from a luxury hotel, (plasma tv’s, robes and slippers) and those that you didn’t, (Sky, underfloor heating and a shower that was also a steam room). And then there was the 16 different light switches that offered over 40 different lighting options that allow you to create just the right amount of ambiance. Everything was perfect from the posh tea bags to the homemade shortbread biscuits. One area did however disappoint. You will know by now how much I love hotel toiletries. Some of my favorite luxury hotels provide their guests with full size own brand toiletries while others provide mini Molton Brown goodies, Bliss bottles or even Aveda lotions and potions. Barnsley House toiletries are nothing short of spectacular, however, they are firmly fastened to the wall with a polite note that tells you where they can be purchased should you wish to take a little of your Barnsley House experience home.
However, the hotel shortly redeemed itself with the second of my favorite things. A lovely handwritten letter.
If you can tear yourself away from your room, here are a few things that are not to be missed:
Do lunch at The Village Pub
Posh yet unpretentious, this country pub is the perfect place to enjoy lunch on arrival. Only steps away from Barnsley House, this is a popular haunt for locals and boasts tasty treats using ingredients grown in the hotel’s vegetable garden.
I recommend the salmon steak, the fish and chips and don’t forget to leave room for the ice cream.
Enjoy a Private Cinema Screening
Barnsley house has a private cinema and you don’t have to have 30 friends to use it or even pay for the privilege. This complimentary service is open to all guests whether you want to watch the best chic flick of all time with your BFF or a rom com with your boyfriend.
Book an Appointment at the Spa
Take a dip in the heated outdoor hydrotherapy pool or enjoy a bespoke treatment in the garden spa.
Take a Tour of the Gardens
Barnsley House is famous for their beautiful gardens and they even provide guests with an array of wonderful wellies should you fancy an impromptu stroll down the garden path.
Choose Barnsley House if you love:
- Contemporary interiors in a traditional setting
- Five star service
- To please yourself
