If you are yearning for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life without the need to venture abroad, the UK boasts serene beaches and stunning coastal destinations waiting to be discovered.
Indulge in a well-deserved retreat at a location likened by Queen Victoria to a scene from a fairytale ballet. You can engage in dolphin and seal watching, unwind in expansive subtropical gardens overlooking a sandy cove, and then explore the crystal-clear waters for snorkeling.
From the warm beaches of Cornwall and Devon to the secluded Isle of Harris via Snowdonia National Park, the latest selections from the Good Hotel Guide reveal this year’s top five seaside hotels handpicked by the editors, catering to a diverse range of preferences.
The Ashworth family’s beloved hotel, set amidst two-acre subtropical gardens above Carne Beach on the unspoiled Roseland Peninsula, offers a charming retreat for guests of all ages. The establishment boasts country-house comforts, timeless appeal, and exceptional service highly praised by Guide readers.
Accommodations feature cozy country-view bedrooms with delightful amenities like fresh flowers, fruit, magazines, a Roberts radio, and premium bath products. The hotel provides a variety of facilities including lounges, a bar, library, gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, and croquet. Additionally, guests can enjoy activities like building sandcastles, exploring rock pools, and cruising on the hotel’s motor launch, Alice Rose.
Culinary delights await guests at the Quarterdeck seafood brasserie, where they can savor à la carte dining options or a five-course fixed-price menu in a refined setting. The hotel also offers cream teas, Sunday lunches, and early suppers for young children. Dog-friendly accommodations and gardens are available, and Carne Beach welcomes dogs year-round, following the Canine Code guidelines.
Room rates for country-view doubles start from £406.
Overlooking a sheltered sandy beach with caves and rock pools, Emma Stratton’s clifftop hotel offers breathtaking Atlantic views. Designed in the Californian Modern style with Scandinavian-inspired interiors, the hotel reflects a legacy of sustainability passed down from Emma’s father, a farmer and engineer who founded the establishment in 1959.
Ideal for families, the hotel features spacious bedrooms facing the sea or countryside, some accommodating up to four guests. Apartment suites are available for larger groups, offering separate living spaces and amenities for a comfortable stay. Children’s activities, including supervised play sessions and kids’ clubs, allow parents to relax and enjoy spa treatments or wellness classes.
The Wild Café serves an all-day menu with a variety of dishes to suit every palate, while the Ogo restaurant presents sophisticated dining options. Locally sourced ingredients feature prominently in the menus, offering guests a taste of the region’s seasonal delights. Outdoor activities like paddleboarding, sea kayaking, and fishing trips provide ample entertainment options for guests.
Bed and breakfast rates for doubles start from £129.
Located above Babbacombe Beach, Lana de Savary’s dog-friendly spa hotel offers a stunning setting for a relaxing retreat. Guests can choose from coastal-chic inn rooms, suites, beach huts, and fishermen’s cottages, all boasting mesmerizing sea views and upscale amenities. The hotel provides various dining options, including a scenic restaurant serving a diverse menu of seafood, pies, grills, and vegetarian dishes.
Guests can enjoy lobster barbecues, live music, and a range of water activities such as paddleboarding and sea kayaking. Room rates for bed and breakfast doubles start from £175.
Nestled on the Isle of Harris, Patricia and Tim Martin’s Georgian manor offers a tranquil escape amidst natural beauty. The hotel provides a cozy atmosphere for guests to unwind after outdoor adventures like hiking, wildlife spotting, and water sports. Rooms feature traditional cottage-style décor with sea or hillside views, creating a warm and inviting ambiance for a peaceful stay.
The hotel offers an early supper for children, followed by set-price dinner options showcasing sophisticated dishes. Special menus cater to vegan and vegetarian preferences, ensuring a diverse culinary experience for all guests. Breakfast includes fresh juices, organic porridge, local seafood, and a traditional Scottish spread.
Room rates for doubles with breakfast start from £315 per night for stays of 2 or 3 nights.
