The Best Countryside Escapes to book this Winter

Autumn in the UK countryside is nothing short of magical. Crisp mornings give way to golden afternoons, and evenings invite you to cosy up by a roaring fire with a glass of wine in hand. Whether you’re seeking a romantic hideaway, a foodie retreat, or simply the chance to slow down, the countryside offers the perfect escape.

From Georgian manors and reimagined farmhouses to whimsical woodland cottages, these destinations blend comfort, luxury, and a touch of seasonal charm. Here are our top 8 countryside escapes to book this autumn — each promising memorable weekends surrounded by nature’s most beautiful backdrop.

ESTELLE MANOR

Set within 3,000 acres of parkland, Estelle Manor is the newest jewel of the Oxfordshire countryside. Opened in 2024, the grand estate blends historic architecture with a contemporary touch, creating an indulgent backdrop for romantic escapes. Plush rooms and suites look out over sweeping grounds, while interiors combine rich fabrics and elegant design.

At the heart of the estate lies an impressive spa with thermal baths, saunas, and treatment rooms, inviting long afternoons of relaxation. Dining is a highlight, with three distinct restaurants offering everything from refined British menus to Japanese and Chinese cuisine. Whether exploring the gardens on a crisp morning or enjoying cocktails by the fire, Estelle Manor captures the essence of modern countryside living – perfect for a special winter getaway.

GILPIN HOTEL

Tucked away in 21 acres of the Lake District, the Gilpin Hotel is a haven of romance and relaxation. Accommodation ranges from elegant garden rooms to private spa lodges, some with cedarwood hot tubs and saunas made for cold winter evenings under the stars. Each stay feels secluded, stylish, and deeply connected to the natural beauty of the fells and lakes.

Food lovers will be drawn to the Michelin-starred SOURCE restaurant, where seasonal menus celebrate local ingredients. For something lighter, Gilpin Spice offers pan-Asian flavours, while the Champagne Bar is ideal for a cosy nightcap. Whether walking misty trails, meeting resident alpacas, or retreating to the spa, Gilpin Hotel is made for the festive period.

WILDERNESS RESERVE

Spread across 8,000 acres of rewilded countryside, the Wilderness Reserve offers an escape like no other. Guests can choose from stone cottages, thatched farmhouses, or grand manor houses, each filled with rustic character and refined interiors that feel especially cosy during the festive season. Every property is designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings while offering warmth and comfort – not to mention Christmas trees in every property!

Days here are all about slowing down. Couples can cycle through golden meadows, row across private lakes, or enjoy fireside spa treatments without leaving their cottage. While woodland walks invite you to embrace the beauty of the season, your own property offers the ultimate escape on private land.

STONE COTTAGE, THE COTSWOLDS

Set in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold, Stone Cottage from Sand & Stone Escapes is an inviting winter hideaway that captures the quiet beauty of the Cotswolds. The traditional stone exterior and calm, stylish interiors create an atmosphere that feels both refined and comfortable – perfect for returning to after a day exploring frosty lanes or browsing the local shops.

Sleeping 4 and dog friendly – winter here is about simple pleasures. Mornings begin with coffee at the kitchen table, afternoons invite long countryside walks or visits to nearby pubs (the oldest inn in England is just down the road). As evening falls, the cottage becomes a peaceful retreat – a place to cook, read, and relax. Stone Cottage offers an easy sense of comfort, making it home away from home for a winter escape in the Cotswolds.

THE PIG-IN THE COTSWOLDS

The Pig – in the Cotswolds offers a cosy hideaway for winter escapes. Housed in the former Barnsley House, the hotel mixes historic character with snug interiors, including bedrooms dressed in soft textures and potting-shed treatment rooms for secluded spa moments.

Seasonal menus showcase produce from the kitchen garden, best enjoyed by the fire with a glass of red on a chilly evening. Guests can wander Barnsley village, explore Cirencester nearby, or stroll to the first-ever Pig Pub down the lane. It’s a retreat that makes this time of year feel both indulgent and effortless.

THE NEWT, SOMERSET

A Georgian estate with a storied past, The Newt in Somerset is celebrated for its gardens, orchards, and restored interiors. Guests can stay in the main house or converted farm buildings, each designed for comfort and calm. Autumn brings the estate into its own, with apple harvests, misty meadows, and gardens glowing with seasonal colour.

Wellness takes centre stage, with an indoor–outdoor pool, herbal spa treatments, and couples’ mud therapy offering the ultimate in relaxation. Dining is equally memorable, from modern menus at The Botanical Rooms to rustic charm at The Farmyard Kitchen. With daily cream tea by the fire, The Newt is a perfect autumn retreat.

ARIA, SOMERSET

Aria sits within fifty acres of quiet Somerset countryside near the village of Crowcombe. Built from zinc, concrete and glass, it’s a modern home that feels calm and grounded in its rural setting. Designed to sleep six, the house has been created for easy family living, with an open-plan kitchen, dining and sitting area at its heart. The large sofas, soft textures and natural materials make it a welcoming place to gather after days spent exploring the hills. A fig-pink kitchen opens to the courtyard, and the ground floor bedroom offers simple comfort beside the garden. Upstairs, two further king bedrooms and a small workspace look out over the fields, each designed with a quiet, uncluttered feel.

The walled garden feels sheltered and private through the colder months, a space for crisp mornings and evenings spent in the wood-fired hot tub. Beyond the garden, a small river winds through the farmland and steam trains occasionally pass along the boundary, adding a gentle sense of nostalgia. With space to come together and plenty of corners to unwind, Aria is a peaceful winter retreat for all.

GLENEAGLES, PERTHSHIRE

A Scottish icon since 1924, Gleneagles is renowned as one of the world’s great country hotels. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Perthshire’s rolling hills, it combines timeless grandeur with warm hospitality. Elegant rooms and suites offer a welcoming retreat, blending classic style with modern touches for a stay that feels both indulgent and inviting.

Autumn is an especially magical time to visit, with the Highlands glowing in golden tones and crisp air perfect for long walks or outdoor pursuits. Guests can relax in the award-winning spa, savour whisky by the fire, or dine across a choice of acclaimed restaurants. Balancing luxury, heritage, and adventure, Gleneagles is the ultimate countryside escape.

COTTAGE ORNÉ, CORNWALL

Tucked away in a charming private hamlet, Cottage Orné feels like a storybook escape. Original stone cottages and historic farmhouses gather around a traditional village green, with the grand Manor House at the heart of the estate. Choose from characterful 1–3 bedroom cottages (some are dog-friendly), each full of charm across one or two storeys, or retreat to the snug Shepherd’s Hut, the perfect hideaway for two. For larger groups, the Manor House accommodates up to 14 guests, offering plenty of space to relax together.

A highlight of staying here is the dedicated workshop space, where you can try your hand at seasonal activities like Christmas wreath-making – a creative, festive treat for families or friends.