Looking for a slice of luxury? Then check out our selection of Britain’s best boutique hotels, in no particular order, in some of its major cities…
London
Hazlitt’s
Forget what you thought you knew about Soho because this antique-filled Georgian townhouse shows an entirely different side of the London district. Once a favourite of the 18th century ‘literati’, and named after its one time resident, the famous critic and essayist, William Hazlitt, it’s been dubbed ‘London’s best kept secret’ by Harpers Bazaar and even JK Rowling has said she’d love to stay in the Lady Francis room ‘forever’.
The Sanderson
The Sanderson, which is owned by the Morgans Hotel Group, is described as an ‘urban spa’ and, situated in the heart of London’s West End, it’s certainly a haven for travellers looking for something different away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. It’s a 50s building that’s been transformed by Philippe Starcke and, within, showcases an eclectic mix of modern luxury and amusing features, such as its hand-crafted African furniture and Salvador Dali inspired ‘red lips’ sofa.
The Connaught
Set in Mayfair’s Mount Street, The Connaught is contemporary yet steeped in history spanning 100 years. Recently revamped, it’s the epitome of traditional English luxury – with a butler service and antique furniture – and still has all the mod cons expected of a boutique hotel in today’s tech savvy world. It’s decadent, sophisticated and has two out-of-this-world restaurants with discerning dress codes to match: ‘Champagne chic’ for the formal Helene Darroze and ‘off-duty Parisian elegance’ for the more relaxed Espelette.
Liverpool
Hope Street Hotel
On a world-famous street, Hope Street Hotel is a cosy, contemporary and incredibly romantic boutique hotel in the heart of Liverpool – birthplace of The Beatles. It’s won a string of accolades, including ‘Hotel of the Year 2012’ at the Liverpool City Region Annual Tourist Awards and been named ‘Best Value Urban UK Hotel’ at The Sunday Times Travel Magazine VFM Awards 2011. It has a fantastic restaurant, grand piano and even serves up its own tailor-made cocktails.
62 Castle St
Formerly The Trials Hotel, 62 Castle St is contemporary but with a traditional twist and luxury Victorian feel. It’s a symbiotic fusion of chilled out chic and classic style and is a comfortable retreat away from the noise of the city. That said, it’s still close enough to explore Liverpool’s exciting nightlife, which is just minutes away. It’s also close to Liverpool’s business hub and is well known for its excellent service.
Manchester
Malmaison
Malmaison comprises a collection of 12 unique boutique hotels in the UK where its very name has become synonymous with iconic buildings – with buildings converted from a castle, prison, hospital and mail sorting office, to name but a few. It might be different architecture each time but one thing remains the same – the imaginative and exciting surroundings, standard of service and feeling of luxury. Its Manchester offering is, of course, no exception.
Newcastle
Hotel Indigo
A new addition to Newcastle, Hotel Indigo is a luxury 4-star boutique hotel in the city centre – close to Newcastle’s Central Station and football grounds. One of its most enticing features is the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill which, of course, has caused quite a stir. In-keeping with the Grainger Town area in which it sits, the hotel boasts some remarkable architecture – combining bold, geometric features with patterns which mimic the stone columns of the surrounding area.
Glasgow
Hotel du Vin
Exquisite seafood and elegant roll top baths are the order of the day at this boutique hotel in Glasgow which sits on a central Victorian street. Its bistro serves sumptuous French cuisine with a British twist while its interior makes guests feel as if they’ve stepped into a Charles Dickens novel. It’s the height of luxury and expertly done with its roaring fireplaces and cosy period feel.
Edinburgh
Tigerlily
Part of the Montpelier group, Tigerlily is a unique experience in the heart of Edinburgh, not far from the West End. Located in George Street, which is one of the city’s main shopping strips for designer labels, it’s a unique boutique hotel which is a contemporary haven for trendy business professionals both visiting and residing in the city. The restaurant and bar are incredibly popular – as is its underground nightclub, Lulu.
The Rutland
Situated in Edinburgh’s West End and not far from Haymarket train station you’ll find The Rutland, with its new The Huxley bar and Kyloe Restaurant and Grill. It’s a gorgeous period building which boasts ‘relaxed glamour’. Each of its 12 individually designed guest rooms exude luxury and little touches, such as complimentary muffins on arrival, help to make it extra special.
Pictured above is The Connaught. Credit: The Connaught.
