Ease into autumn with a stay that’s in step with the rituals and rhythms of the season. Abi Manning reveals where to visit
Teffont House, Wiltshire
Although this is the Beckford Group’s first foray into running a hotel, the 17-bedroom boutique bolthole has exceeded all expectations.
It’s found in one of Wiltshire’s prettiest villages, in a building dating back to 1623. The spot has long been a magnet for actors, aristocrats and artists and, should creative inspo strike during your stay, you’ll find summerhouses stocked with watercolour paints and canvases. Teffont House is also home to an outdoor Bramley treatment cabin with a sauna and cold plunge pool.
As a sister to some esteemed restaurants, excellent food is a given. In the Orangery restaurant, Tom Holloway (formerly of The Pig) serves up seasonal fare like octopus raviolo with celeriac.
Bittescombe Lodge, Somerset
For a group stay, Bittescombe Lodge hits a ten on the drop-dead-glam scale.
The fully staffed home in the countryside screams luxury at every turn. Browse the collection of rare books in the library, indulge in dishes of estate produce prepared by the chef, play vintage video games, take a dip in the infinity pool, bliss out in the spa or hit the gym.
The team curates each experience to fit guest preferences. Whether you fancy alfresco yoga or a spot of fishing, your wish is their command.
Ennys, Cornwall
This pastoral idyll, hidden in a valley of woodland, pasture and river, feels like a retreat plucked from the pages of a fairytale.
Well Cottage (one of four properties converted from a former granary and dairy) provides a restful base for couples seeking space to switch off. Access to a shared pool and sauna is an added draw for those who relish the ritual of thermal wellness.
A wood burner, fresh flowers and a cream tea are prepared for your arrival, while a welcome basket of provisions from artisan producers completes the enchanting picture.
Tudor Farmhouse, Gloucestershire
This 13th-century working farm, reimagined as a 20-room hotel and restaurant, lies where the Wye Valley meets the Forest of Dean.
While primarily a boutique base in which to reflect and recharge, for food lovers it’s a delicious find. Chef Arron Christopher and his team deliver a celebration of seasonal flavours, using produce sourced from the cottage garden and from within a 20-mile radius. The sophisticated dishes are best sampled in the five-course tasting menu, although the Sunday roasts and relaxed lunches are also excellent.
Those seeking to connect with nature should join one of the wild-food foraging trips or wildlife safaris.
The Lookout, Cornwall
New oceanside retreat The Lookout is a cool spot for an autumnal group getaway. Overlooking Newquay’s headland, the luxe two-floor accommodation has room for up to eight guests.
Access to coves, beaches and the South West Coast Path makes it easy to fill your days. However, you could simply stay put and bask in the opulence of the abode. Tinkle the ivories (there’s a white baby grand), gaze over rolling surf, curl up with a book and a blanket on the wraparound terrace, chill in the Atlantic Hotel spa (guests at The Lookout get free access) and cook up a feast in the slick kitchen.
The Alverton Hotel, Cornwall
Revealed at the top of a steep, winding driveway, the dramatic Grade II*-listed Alverton Hotel feels a world away from the bustle of the city, despite being just a ten-minute stroll from the centre of Truro.
The hotel’s riches are revealed at every turn as you discover its history as a convent, sip a cocktail by the fire, dine on dishes flush with Cornish fare and swan-dive into a king-size bed in a courtyard room with stained-glass windows.
If you liked discovering our ultimate autumn escapes, check out these unique places to stay.
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