If you are looking for a more personable and intimate experience should consider staying at a boutique hotel.
This type of accommodation tend to have more of a personality as opposed to simply being another edition of a cookie cutter hotel chain.
The atmosphere at boutique hotels is a bit more homelike compared to other types of accommodations, with some really unique and flamboyant decoration and design compared to your average hotel.
What Are Boutique Hotels?
“Boutique” depends on the Hotels interpretation.
Most boutique hotels are integrated into their community socially, whether that is a large city such as London or a natural setting like Loch Ness. People working at boutique hotels tend to have some great suggestions for what to do in the area as well.
Boutique hotels are usually created with an aspiration of being uncommon and standing out from the rest. They tend to be independent and proud of that reputation. Even those associated with larger brands are apt to be created with the intent of attracting those looking for a little different of an experience than would be possible elsewhere. One example is the Nobu Hotel at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.
Another benefit of staying in a boutique hotel is that they often present their visitors with a feeling of staying in a home away from home. The personal treatment that is experienced here helps create this emotion as guests are usually greeted by name and have their needs and preferences met as closely as possible.
Ensuring that visitors are comfortable and happy is something that is incredibly important to those running and working at these places. The relative lack of bureaucratic red tape that they have to cut through also helps them achieve these goals in a timely and personal way.
Although many of these places offer access to things like telephones and Wi-Fi connections, a number do not offer any of these things as they are looking to promote themselves as a place to get away from the distractions of everyday life and to instead be enveloped by a quiet, peaceful environment.
Boutique hotels located in cities tend to offer these amenities, while those in the countryside are more apt to focus on serving as an escape from the hustle and bustle of normal life.
Many of these places are designed with a theme in mind. Some possess a modern flair, while others have rustic interiors and exteriors. There are also places that promote things like Buddhist art, a space-age disco or a Native American experience.
Although most boutique hotels are located in the United Kingdom and the United States, they are starting to gain popularity throughout the world as many popular hotels are opening in places like Thailand, Indonesia, Turkey, Iceland and Peru.
Ten Boutique Hotels to Stay in Britain
Make your next UK stay extra special by booking to stay in our featured hotels.
1. Blakes, London
Blakes is believed to be the world’s first boutique hotel. It was opened in 1978 by Anouska Hempel, an actress who had appeared in movies such as “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.” It is home to artefacts from places such as China, Cambodia and India, and each of the rooms is unique from each other.
This 47-room hotel is located on a residential street in South Kensington – one of the most luxurious places to stay in London. It is also known for being a discreet place for famous people to stay. Some of the more famous ones to have stayed here include Gwyneth Paltrow and Sarah Ferguson.
2. Church Street Townhouse, Stratford upon Avon
The location of this hotel is perfect for fans of Shakespeare as it is situated right in his hometown’s historic core. Pretty much everything that Stratford upon Avon has to offer is within walking distance. Some of the rooms in this place date more than 500 years. A bread oven dating to the 1700s may be admired in the library.
3. Grove Narbeth, Pembrokeshire
The Grove Narbeth is situated in South West Wales’ peaceful countryside. The views that are available from its 20 rooms are spectacular. The rooms themselves are attractively rustic. Nature lovers enjoy how accessible Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is from here. The restaurant at the Grove Narbeth is one of the finest in Wales; it has received Rosettes and National Tourism Awards.
4. Headland House, St Ives
This boutique hotel is located in Cornwall just a block from the sandy beaches of Carbis Bay. It is also conveniently located for those who want to visit the art galleries, cafes and boutique shops in St Ives. The rooms are large and possess a beachy atmosphere. Many people enjoy eating breakfast while sitting at the decked terrace and looking out at the bay. You could combine a stay here with a sightseeing or Cornwall cycle trip.
5. High Road House, London
High Road House is a newer boutique hotel as it opened in 2006. This 14-bedroom accommodation in Chiswick is conveniently situated between central London and Heathrow Airport. Kew Gardens is a short Tube ride away whilst London’s best free museums are located nearby too. The hotel was designed by renowned artist Ilse Crawford and has some nice colour accents. Its bar and restaurant are popular as well.
6. Loch Ness Lodge, Brachla
This boutique hotel provides its visitors with some spectacular views of Loch Ness as it is situated on a hill that overlooks this famous body of water. The rooms have been inspired by the Loch Ness Lodge’s beautiful natural surroundings. Many people who stay here head out on a boat on Loch Ness or travel to nearby Inverness, the largest city in the Highlands.
7. Old Parsonage Hotel, Oxford
The Old Parsonage Hotel is situated within easy walking distance of Oxford’s main attractions. It is also right in the midst of the University of Oxford. This hotel is home to a popular walled terrace where many guests eat and drink.
The hotel reopened in March 2014 following a refurbishment that created five new bedrooms and a rooftop library. Major decorative and structural changes took place as well. Bicycles are available to those wanting to explore the area on two wheels.
8. Rutland Hotel, Edinburgh
The Rutland Hotel is an enviable location situated right between this famous city’s primary shopping and financial areas. The view of Edinburgh Castle from here is breathtaking as well. Those hungry and thirsty regularly head to Kyloe and The Huxley restaurants, respectively; both are located here.
The Rutland Hotel’s interior is a beautiful combination of brown and red. This place is historic as well as it is the former home of famous surgeon Joseph Lister. This is one of the best luxury places to stay in Scotland.
9. Soho Hotel, London
The Soho Hotel is known for its funky and colourful interior, which was designed by Kit Kemp. This 91-room hotel is home to apartments, bedrooms and suites. Its location is enviable as it is situated on a quiet street that has easy access to many of London’s most popular bars and restaurants.
The bar and restaurant located at the Soho Hotel are among the most popular for those living or visiting the area. You can also enjoy some of the best afternoon tea in London or explore Soho for hundreds more bars, cafes, restaurants and entertainment options.
10. The Witchery by the Castle, Edinburgh
The Witchery is home to one of Edinburgh’s most famous and beautiful restaurants. Its rooms are spectacular as well, and its location right next to Edinburgh Castle is enviable. The Witchery is situated at the top of the Royal Mile.
The Witchery received its name because individuals practicing witchcraft were punished on its grounds in the 1400s and 1500s. The design is really unique – you won’t find many hotels like this in the world! This is a great unusual place to stay for a sightseeing trip to Edinburgh.
