THE award-winning Sun Travel team have stayed in hundreds, if not thousands of hotels.
So when it comes to recognising what makes a hotel great, we may just know a thing or two.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
We’ve shared out top hotels to visit this yearCredit: tewinbury farm hotelAt Tewinbury Farm Hotel, the interior is luxurious yet cosyCredit: Tewinbury farm hotel
We’ve revealed 12 of our UK must-visit hotels for 2026 – and there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for brand new trendy spots, or themed rooms to wow the kids – we’ve got you covered.
Tewinbury Farm Hotel, Hertfordshire
I’m a sucker for a rustic countryside property where welly boots are essential – and Tewinbury Farm, buried in rural Hertfordshire, is one of the best out there.
Comprising renovated barns and cosy lakeside shepherd’s huts spread across a sprawling family-run farm estate, this hotel has an air of members club about it thanks to the endless list of monthly activities and country-chic decor.
Huts feature copper bath tubs and private decking areas that jut out over a wildlife-rich lake.
Rooms in the main building house fancy four-poster beds sat beneath dark timber beams.
What really makes this place shine is its strong connection to the farm’s heritage.
Make sure to book onto the summertime Roots Dining Experience, where visitors dine outdoors in the hotel’s allotment.
Guests can tuck into a sharing menu of freshly-plucked vegetables from the surrounding beds and meat from the farm – all of which is rustled up in an outdoor kitchen right in front of you.
There’s a farm shop on site and maps that encourage guests to stroll the surrounding farmland, with some of Hertfordshire’s most scenic walking trails on the doorstep.
Chessington has one of the biggest openings among UK theme parks in 2026, with the launch of their new Paw Patrol Land.
As the mother of a primary school kid who only just graduated from Paw Patrol mania a couple of years ago, I’m aware that this is BIG news to hundreds of thousands of families across the country.
While certain areas of the hotel haven’t had an upgrade in several years, props have to go to Chessington for constantly adding new themed rooms to their repertoire – and they also make a massive effort with each one.
Being able to flop on the bed with a G&T post-theme park, while your child plays on the Pup Squad Patroller bunk bed is 15 minutes of well-earned relaxation.
Paw Patrol fans will go nuts for this themed roomCredit: Chessington World of AdventuresThe aptly named Safari Hotel has a variety of themed roomsCredit: Chessington World of Adventures
Smith’s Townhouse, Broadstairs
One of my new favourite seaside town hotels is Smith’s Townhouse, in Broadstairs.
Previously just a coffee shop, they reopened just around the corner as a boutique hotel.
Despite just six rooms, each one feels like a trendy London hotel with mid century interiors, dark painted walls and stylish blankets and cushions.
The furniture is certainly unique – some of it was even said to have been owned by Elton John previously
Expect freshly baked slices of cake and fresh tea in your room when you arrive too.
Make sure to stay for breakfast, with their downstairs cafe serving their own coffee as well as amazing baked goods.
They even recently opened their bar, as well as plans for a Pilates studio and DJ nights.
Even better? It’s a short walk to the beautiful beach.
With its cool tones and sleek exterior, this is a trendy option in BroadstairsCredit: smith’s townhouse
The Copthorne, Newcastle
This homely hotel sits on Newcastle’s Quayside overlooking the River Tyne.
It’s the ideal spot for a peaceful stay just a short stroll from the city centre’s pubs, shops and nightlife.
There’s no frills here – just large, comfy beds, a warm Geordie welcome, and a friendly quayside bar showing all the live sport – so you won’t miss a match during your stay.
Most of the Copthorne’s 156 rooms come with a Quayside view of calm river waters, glowing city lights and the impressive High Level Bridge.
All rooms, from standard doubles to suites, are incredibly spacious – often with extra seating by the window to watch the world go by.
Beds are so huge they’re near impossible to roll out of. Rooms here feel less stuffy hotel room, and more cosy getaway where you can seriously relax.
The hotel’s Quay 7 restaurant serves up traditional pub classics alongside a few surprises.
Take your pick from curry, scampi, steak – or the “Mexican cheeseburger burrito”, an unusual fusion that somehow works.
End your meal with a treacle tart and a cocktail shaken by the cheerful bar team to round off the night perfectly.
Staff here welcome you in like an old friend. Nothing is too much trouble, even crafting off-menu cocktails from a keen mixologist who loves a challenge.
Rooms here are generously sizedCredit: The Copthorne NewcastleThe High Level Bridge can be seen to the left from quayside view roomsCredit: the copthorne newcastle
The University Arms Hotel, Cambridge
When it comes to taking a city break, I always think the closer the hotel is to the hustle and bustle, the better.
The University Arms Hotel in Cambridge is in the perfect spot, being within walking distance to bars, shops and tourist hotspots like the famous colleges and Parker’s Piece.
But don’t worry, you won’t hear any noise from them within the hotel walls.
The University Arms Hotel itself couldn’t be prettier with huge stained glass windows and grand chandeliers.
I was a big fan of the colour scheme too. There’s nothing worse than going into the hotel room for a relaxing weekend and being blinded by garish designs or bright yellow walls.
The University Arms Hotel keeps it simple with calming tones of blue and a splash of burnt orange.
Not to mention the beds are super comfy, and you won’t be able to resist taking a dip in the enormous clawfoot bath tubs.
This hotel is a popular option in CambridgeCredit: the university arms hotelThe Parker’s Tavern restaurant serves up a twist on British classicsCredit: the university arms hotel
Margate House, Kent
I love a home-away-from-home retreat and Margate House ticks all the boxes.
This stylish boutique hotel is set across a seaside townhouse, just a short walk from some of Margate’s coolest bars and restaurants.
The beautifully converted townhouse is on a residential road along from the beach, in the ever-trendy Cliftonville area.
The vibrant interiors manage to be effortlessly hip, yet also homely and comfortable.
Decked out with plush velvet sofas, candles flickering in the corner and striking independent art, stepping inside is like a warm welcome home.
The nine rooms are stunning, especially the ones that give you a glimpse of the sea.
Every room has a supremely comfortable king size bed, in which you can request a picnic breakfast each morning.
A short walk will take you along the seafront to the Turner Contemporary, Dreamland and Margate’s golden sandy beach.
Rooms start from £120 per night, including breakfast (margatehouse.co.uk).
Margate House follows a stylish pink and red colour schemeCredit: Margate House HotelMargate House has an intimate setting with quirky decorCredit: Margate House Hotel
The Alan, Manchester
Even from the outside, The Alan looks extremely grand, being built into a beautiful Grade II listed building.
Spread across six floors, with 137 rooms, each one looks like a fancy design magazine.
From the concrete coffee tables to the pink plastered walls, the industrial-inspired designs perfectly replicate the history of the city.
The mod cons are just as exciting – gone are the dated telephones and instead with a personal assistant tablet where you can do everything from contact reception to get local tips and guides.
Even the bathroom was an inspiration, with copper fixtures and Haeckels toiletries hailing from Margate.
Make sure to pop into the downstairs restaurant as well.
Along with a co-working space (which for £20 includes lunch and unlimited tea and coffee) but it also houses a fantastic restaurant.
I recommend the cheesy garlic pinsa, a Roman-style flatbread, before heading into town for a night out.
The exterior of this Grade ll listed building is impressiveCredit: The Alan hotel manchesterRooms are warm and invitingCredit: The Alan hotel manchesterThere are plenty of spots for food, coffee and chilling outCredit: The Alan hotel manchester
Z Hotels Gloucester Place, London
Finding an affordable hotel in the capital can often feel like looking for a needle in a haystack.
But what if I told you that there is a super central spot that costs just £55 per person, per night?
Z Hotels Gloucester Place is a real gem amongst the £200+ per night hotels in London.
Located a short walk from Oxford Street and the city’s main attractions, its ideal location is just part of the fab deal you get when staying at the hotel.
But it is the all-inclusive element of this hotel that is its real selling point.
I stayed for just one night, but had endless glasses of wine, afternoon tea, cups and cups of hot drinks, a sandwich, cans of pop, a delicious cheese board and an extensive breakfast with pastries, fresh fruit and flatbread.
Honestly, if you need somewhere to stay in the Big Smoke on a budget, then this is the place.
Rooms start from £55 per person, per night (thezhotels.com).
It’s rare to find an affordable all-inclusive hotel in LondonCredit: Z Hotels Gloucester PlaceRooms are simple, but have all that you’d needCredit: Z Hotels Gloucester PlaceThe best part of this hotel is its free-flowing food and drinksCredit: Z Hotels Gloucester Place
The Queen at Chester Hotel
This grand old dame of a hotel has had a sparkling £5 million refurbishment that has breathed new life into a historic building.
The brick and stucco Italianate edifice sits right opposite the train station in Chester and was originally built to serve first class rail passengers.
Built in 1860, the building was said to be the first skyscraper of its time.
It has welcomed the likes of Charles Dickens and Lillie Langtry through its doors.
The recent refurbishment has resulted in stunning new interiors with some fabulous modern art and furniture sitting seamlessly alongside the grand period features.
Rooms feature warm, earthy tones and richly patterned carpets with super soft bed linen and premium toiletries in the bathroom.
Go for a superior room for extra goodies including bathrobes and snack boxes.
And with prices from just £68 a night, it’s the perfect place to lay your head after a day at the Chester racecourse or zoo.
A £5million refurbishment has refreshed the beautiful buildingCredit: The queen at chester hotelThe interior is impressive with its modern art and grand staircaseCredit: The queen at chester hotel
The Zetter, Bloomsbury
The Zetter Townhouse in Clerkenwell is my favourite hotel in London.
The hotel bar feels so chic and homely, it’s like you’ve been invited to a drinks party at the home of some eccentric millionaire.
So the news that Zetter is opening a new hotel in Bloomsbury – my favourite area of central London – is very welcome.
The 68-bedroom townhouse hotel will span six interconnecting Georgian buildings on Montague Street, opposite the British Museum.
Bloomsbury is unique in that, despite being so close to the likes of Covent Garden and Oxford Street, it still retains plenty of character from ye olden days.
Plus, you can walk to the West End‘s theatres and restaurants, as well as the achingly cool Kings Cross.
The Zetter is known for its stylish interiorsCredit: The Zetter, BloomsburyThe restaurant at The Zetter is the perfect place to dine under candlelightCredit: The Zetter, Bloomsbury
The Grand Central, Belfast
Belfast’s city centre is home to one hotel that always makes passers-by stop in their tracks to peek inside – and that’s the Grand Central.
This glamorous high-rise hotel lives true to its name, sitting smack-bang in the middle of the city.
After a warm greeting from hotel porters, guests step inside to glossy marble interiors in the lobby – and elevators with a whole load of buttons.
Rooms are modestly sized yet pristine, with bouncy cloud beds and roomy walk-in showers.
They also come with panoramic views of the glittering skyline and iconic city hall – as does the hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant, The Observatory.
The Seahorse Restaurant serves everything from a delicious Irish breakfast through to quirky evening cocktails, whilst The Observatory’s Afternoon Tea beats any I’ve had in England.
At £45 per person for cakes that look like works of art, 360° rooftop city views, and plenty of generously-stuffed sandwiches, the experience is well worth looking into for special occasions.
If you’re looking to treat yourself to a fancy weekend away in the UK, you’ll feel extremely well taken care of at this swanky city hotel.
The city views from these rooms are astonishingCredit: grand central hotel belfastThe Seahorse Bar and Restaurant serves up fancy cocktails and excellent local dishesCredit: grand central hotel belfastThe location of this hotel is unbeatable when in BelfastCredit: grand central hotel belfast
Artist Residence, Bristol
The Artist Residence hotels lives up to its name, feeling like you’ve stepped into a bohemian home of an art curator.
I’ve been to their London hotel although it’s their own in Bristol that I adore.
Built into a Georgian townhouse, the hotel was once an old boot factory.
I love the options of rooms, such as their Crash Pad which is cosy and compact if you just need a base to explore the city.
Otherwise I love the Boot Room, still with a king size bed and Smeg fridge, or splash out on the massive Artist Suite, with views over Portland Square, a living area bigger than my first flat and a roll top bath.
You’ll be bumping into locals at the restaurant downstairs too, from families visiting for a hearty breakfast to groups of mates having a big night out for dinner.
I’m still dreaming of some of the small plates, from the salty hispi cabbage to the rich harissa roast chicken.
Don’t forget to grab a picture in the downstairs photobooth too.
This quirky hotel truly lives up to its nameCredit: Artist residence, bristolThis hotel balances homely and quirky perfectlyCredit: Artist residence, bristol
Mar Hall Hotel and Resort near Glasgow underwent a £20m refurbishment and was voted in the top 20 resorts in Europe by Condé Nast Traveler readers – and I recently stayed there
Ketsuda Phoutinane Spare Time Content Editor
05:34, 23 Dec 2025
Many tourists are drawn to Scotland for the Highlands, Loch Ness and whisky — not necessarily the outskirts of Glasgow. However, I recently discovered a charming corner of Scotland is just a stone’s throw from the baggage claim.
The phrase “airport hotel” isn’t one that ignites much enthusiasm. They’re more often a necessary inconvenience than a destination, but just outside Scotland’s largest city lies the newly refurbished Mar Hall Hotel and Resort. Let’s be clear, this isn’t so much an ‘airport hotel’ as it is a hotel near an airport. The five-star resort has recently undergone a £20million makeover under new management.
Despite being no more than 30 minutes from my flat, it feels like an escape to the country. Arriving at 3pm, which is sunset during the depths of winter here, the sun casts a golden hue over the Clyde and the gently rolling hills and trees beyond. Toto, I don’t think we’re in Glasgow anymore.
The new Mar Hall
At the grand old age of 180, Mar Hall has had several incarnations. Originally commissioned by the 11th Lord Blantyre as the latest Erskine house estate, it was later transformed into a hospital for soldiers returning from World War 1 with amputations.
Fast forward to 2025 and Mar Hall finds itself under fresh ownership once more. For Glaswegians such as myself, an evening spent in a lavish period property offers a welcome escape from everyday life. For those travelling from further away, it provides an exceptionally luxurious introduction to Scotland.
Despite the hotel’s new proprietors being Dubai-based — and its Instagram-ready aesthetic — Mar Hall’s makeover feels unmistakably Scottish. During a tour of the recently renovated establishment, Jim Hamilton from Graven, the interior design company behind the transformation, told me he grew up locally and still lives minutes away.
The quintessentially Glaswegian design house Timorous Beasties provided wallpapers and fabrics, while Glasgow’s Artpistol gallery sourced much of the artwork displayed throughout, including pieces from recent Glasgow School of Art graduates.
Noting how Mar Hall has transformed from “home to hospital to hospitality”, Jim said they aimed to maintain that sense of homeliness and care in its latest incarnation.
One of the callbacks to its Victorian roots is the potted palm trees flanking the entrance hall — a nod to an era when exotic plants were a symbol of sophistication and worldliness. The attention to detail extended to the very walls. A series of four large paintings depicting Scotland’s seasons, commissioned from Scottish artist Nichol Wheatley, are set within custom wall panelling, reflecting the style of the period.
The aesthetic is a bold mix of vibrant colours and patterns: it’s Victorian, but with a 2025 twist. Your gaze is constantly drawn upwards through the lofty spaces towards the stunning vaulted ceilings above. The overall effect is lavish and chic, yet inviting. Whilst it is a five-star resort, the staff are incredibly friendly, making me feel perfectly at ease.
The rooms
It’s nearing December and the hotel has been fully decked out for the festive season. The receptionist, who offers a typically warm Scottish welcome, pauses before the doors to the Gallery, clearly excited to show me the grand room at the heart of the hotel.
For a moment, I worry about having to feign excitement for this kindly lady, but when she swings open the doors, I’m genuinely taken aback. It’s even more impressive in person than online.
To reach one of the hotel’s 74 rooms, guests walk through the Gallery with its plush seating, fireplaces and marble bar. I’m handed the keys to the Erskine grand suite for the night, priced at £1,125 per night, kitted out with a regal sitting room and grand piano.
The sitting room and bathroom, featuring a rolltop bath, offer views over the golf course, River Clyde and picturesque woodlands beyond, in that order. The bespoke bookcases are so perfectly illuminated — as is everything in the hotel — that when I meet Jim, I can’t resist asking if he would design my flat pro bono.
The festive decorations extend to the rooms. I’m thrilled to discover a Christmas tree in the lounge, sparkling next to a handwritten note and dish of treats welcoming me to Mar Hall. It’s enough to make anyone feel warm and fuzzy.
The bedroom, with its luxurious four-poster bed and impeccably luxurious bedding, lulls me to sleep shortly after I start watching a cheesy Netflix Christmas film. It’s a pity I can’t spend more time savouring a hotel room of this standard.
Mar Hall only reopened in May this year, but I hear Kylie Minogue has already stayed in these suites twice.
The food
Before dinner, I enjoy a drink in the Slàinte bar, which is delightfully cosy with a crackling fireplace and a Christmas tree. For dinner, smoked salmon, beef, and sticky toffee pudding are the mainstays of ‘fancy dining’ in Scotland and rightly so. I’m pleased to see all three on the menu.
Layering local smoked salmon on a bed of horseradish and a crunchy cracker was a real treat. The blade of beef was as tender as expected, with dauphinoise and honey-roasted carrots making for a perfect mouthful. The only critique I’d have is that the pudding could have done with more toffee sauce, as is often the case.
The unexpected highlight, however, were the warm fig bread rolls – they’ve been on my mind ever since. And all throughout, the service struck a good balance between being attentive and unobtrusive.
Breakfast in the Dining Room offers a continental selection with a variety of hot options including full Scottish breakfast, sausage egg roll, eggs Benedict, and porridge. I chose the ‘rise & shine crumpet’, a tasty combination of Argyll smoked salmon with scrambled egg.
Location and facilities
Mar Hall is set within a 240-acre estate, just a 25-minute drive from Glasgow city centre or a mere 10 minutes from Glasgow Airport. However, it’s not easily reachable by public transport.
The 18-hole Earl of Mar golf course is conveniently located just outside. Like the hotel, it boasts picturesque views of the River Clyde and the Kilpatrick Hills.
The spa features a swimming pool, saunas and steam rooms. Other amenities include a gym, games room and private screening room.
Final thoughts
Mar Hall’s new owners have invested millions into the hotel with the aim of making it a world-class destination. Resort director Andy Roger shared plans for a clubhouse featuring a second restaurant and a state-of-the-art indoor-outdoor spa.
However, it faces tough competition just an hour up the M8. This year, Mar Hall made it into the top 20 resorts in Europe as voted by readers of American luxury travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler. The number one spot on the list? Gleneagles. This iconic resort is a Scottish summer camp for the rich, offering seven eateries, three golf courses and a spa, along with horse riding, shooting, fishing, off-roading and more in the hills of the Perthshire resort.
While it may not be a full-service millionaire’s playground, I’m already excited about returning. Mar Hall tops my list for a pampering staycation with my husband or for afternoon tea with out-of-town visitors. Once the spa is refurbished, I know it’ll be a huge hit with locals.
The more time I spent at Mar Hall, the less I wanted to leave, and that’s the sign of a great hotel.
Booking details
Rooms and packages can be booked through Mar Hall’s website. Rooms start from £292.
THE Signet Collection is one of my personal favourite hotel brands in the UK, with properties tucked away in countryside locations where you can snuggle down in cosy nooks near a roaring fireplace.
The Barnsdale is its third property, which opened in 2023. Here’s everything you need to know.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
People come for the outdoor Signet SpaCredit: The Barnsdalefamily rooms that come with a double bed and a separate bedroom with bunk bedsCredit: The Barnsdale
Where is The Barnsdale?
This elegant retreat sits just a stone’s throw from one of the UKs most famous reservoirs, Rutland water.
It’s immersed in isolated countryside, so you’ll want to drive and take advantage of the parking on site.
Oakham train station is around a ten-minute drive away if you’d rather use public transport.
What is The Barnsdale like?
The Barnsdale has all the charm of a dainty cottage in the Cotswold, but with the hospitality benefits of a 4* hotel.
A former hunting lodge constructed in 1760 that – despite the installation of modern amenities – still has an old world feel to it in the form of grand paintings and varnished wooden furnishings.
It has an air of posh members club to it, only without the price tag.
What are the rooms like?
Each of the 46 rooms is decorated in a typically English style with pastel-toned walls, frilly cushions and patterned armchairs.
The Classic is the smallest and cheapest of the bunch and worth it for the lower price.
Most read in Best of British
The only difference in rooms, bar the decorative tweaks, tends to be size and the view (the Royal Room has one of the best).
Classic rooms cost from £85 per night with brekkie. Click here to book.
What is there to eat and drink?
The hotel’s 1760 Brasserie serves classic British favourites including seared scallops doused in butter and a mouthwatering 32-day dry-aged rib-eye served with chips.
I opted for the Atlantic cod which was seasoned well and served with an unctuous vermouth sauce.
Anyone with a sweet tooth will love the sticky toffee pud – this one’s a real crowd pleaser.
What else is there to do at The Barnsdale?
People come for the outdoor Signet Spa where wood-fired hot tubs, a heated pool and a glass-walled sauna overlook fields of grazing Highland cows.
It’s a lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon, sipping on sparkling wine and admiring the creatures munching away on the grass.
The only downside to the spa being entirely outdoors is the unpredictability of the British weather.
Fret not, though – every spa guest is given a DryRobe and flipflops to plod around in.
They can keep this for the duration of their stay.
When the drizzle hit, we persevered in our tub. Big thanks to the staff member who swiftly came to the rescue with a couple of umbrellas.
Massages can often be overpriced, but not here.
My therapist truly listened to my needs and pressure preferences, ensuring I enjoyed every one of those 60 blissful minutes.
Is The Barnsdale family friendly?
Families are well accommodated at The Barnsdale with specific family rooms that come with a double bed and a separate bedroom with bunk beds which comes complete with a cuddly lion toy to keep.
When little ones aren’t taking advantage of the outdoor play areas they can have a get stuck into some classic board games in the Rod Room.
Looking for a place to stay? For more hotel inspiration click here.
The hotel sits close to Rutland WaterCredit: AlamyBarnsdale in Rutland. Supplied by The BarnsdaleCredit: The barnsdale
Looking for a cosy UK weekend getaway this winter? This award-winning country pub ticks all the boxes, our writer Sam Kistamah found out on a recent stay there
Recently named as one of the UK’s best pubs(Image: The Gunton Arms)
Approaching The Gunton Arms, we quickly realised it’s not your average local. It is a pub, but one set in a 1,000-acre deer park near Cromer in rural Norfolk, kitted out in furnishings to rival posh department store Liberty and with walls covered in art by the likes of Tracey Emin and Damien Hirst. And there’s a restaurant that’s in the Michelin Guide too. The deer park surrounds the 18th-century Gunton Hall, and The Gunton Arms was originally a farm that became the second house to Gunton Hall.
After careful restoration by art dealer Ivor Braka (hence the amazing collection), The Gunton Arms opened as a pub with bedrooms in 2011, and earlier this year was listed in the top 20 of The Good Food Guide’s best British pubs.
The food at The Gunton Arms
The Elk Room restaurant is dominated by a giant Irish elk skull, which hangs over an open fire. That’s where chef Stuart Tattersall cooks local fare, including venison from the deer park and beef from the Blickling Estate. Being four miles from the coast, The Gunton Arms also offers seafood, including a popular Cromer crab pasta dish.
We began with fried cod cheeks with caper and bronze fennel mayonnaise, and mixed beets with pickled walnuts and Binham blue. We loved the tender nuggets of cod with their zingy sauce, and the sweet beets were beautifully contrasted by creamy blue cheese and tangy slivers of walnut.
For mains, we devoured the sirloin steak, which had been perfectly cooked on the fire, and came with roast potatoes and a jug of Béarnaise sauce, and the roasted halibut special, accompanied by a buttery spinach and chive sauce and tasty Portland cockles. As keen dessert fans, we inhaled the Norfolk treacle tart with clotted cream and buttermilk pudding with honeyed fig.
The next day, we had lunch at The Gunton Arms’ sister pub The Suffield Arms, which serves outstanding Mediterranean tapas. Highlights included the corn ribs with mojito mayonnaise, and the white Andalusian prawns with garlic and chilli.
The rooms at The Gunton Arms
There are 16 rooms and we stayed in the stunning Rocksavage suite, which gave us some major inspiration for our own home renovation with its muted tones and carefully chosen pieces of art and dark wood furniture. Everything, from the marble bathroom with its roll-top tub to the sumptuous bed, oozed elegance. While the suite was traditionally decorated, we appreciated the Nespresso machine and Roberts radio, and the Norfolk Natural Living toiletries were a nice touch too.
What is there to do around The Gunton Arms?
You can explore the deer park but we were told not to approach the herd as it was rutting season when we visited – we loved watching them from the pub garden while enjoying a glass of chilled Gavi. The pretty seaside town of Cromer is a 10-minute drive away, and the pub is an ideal base for visiting the beautiful North Norfolk coast. With its towering sand dunes, Holkham Beach is a must-see spot that’s loved by the royals as it’s close to Sandringham.
Looking for a cosy UK weekend getaway this winter? This award-winning country pub ticks all the boxes, our writer Sam Kistamah found out on a recent stay there
06:00, 20 Dec 2025Updated 11:20, 22 Dec 2025
Recently named as one of the UK’s best pubs(Image: The Gunton Arms)
Approaching The Gunton Arms, we quickly realised it’s not your average local. It is a pub, but one set in a 1,000-acre deer park near Cromer in rural Norfolk, kitted out in furnishings to rival posh department store Liberty and with walls covered in art by the likes of Tracey Emin and Damien Hirst. And there’s a restaurant that’s in the Michelin Guide too. The deer park surrounds the 18th-century Gunton Hall, and The Gunton Arms was originally a farm that became the second house to Gunton Hall.
After careful restoration by art dealer Ivor Braka (hence the amazing collection), The Gunton Arms opened as a pub with bedrooms in 2011, and earlier this year was listed in the top 20 of The Good Food Guide’s best British pubs.
The food at The Gunton Arms
The Elk Room restaurant is dominated by a giant Irish elk skull, which hangs over an open fire. That’s where chef Stuart Tattersall cooks local fare, including venison from the deer park and beef from the Blickling Estate. Being four miles from the coast, The Gunton Arms also offers seafood, including a popular Cromer crab pasta dish.
We began with fried cod cheeks with caper and bronze fennel mayonnaise, and mixed beets with pickled walnuts and Binham blue. We loved the tender nuggets of cod with their zingy sauce, and the sweet beets were beautifully contrasted by creamy blue cheese and tangy slivers of walnut.
For mains, we devoured the sirloin steak, which had been perfectly cooked on the fire, and came with roast potatoes and a jug of Béarnaise sauce, and the roasted halibut special, accompanied by a buttery spinach and chive sauce and tasty Portland cockles. As keen dessert fans, we inhaled the Norfolk treacle tart with clotted cream and buttermilk pudding with honeyed fig.
The next day, we had lunch at The Gunton Arms’ sister pub The Suffield Arms, which serves outstanding Mediterranean tapas. Highlights included the corn ribs with mojito mayonnaise, and the white Andalusian prawns with garlic and chilli.
The rooms at The Gunton Arms
There are 16 rooms and we stayed in the stunning Rocksavage suite, which gave us some major inspiration for our own home renovation with its muted tones and carefully chosen pieces of art and dark wood furniture. Everything, from the marble bathroom with its roll-top tub to the sumptuous bed, oozed elegance. While the suite was traditionally decorated, we appreciated the Nespresso machine and Roberts radio, and the Norfolk Natural Living toiletries were a nice touch too.
What is there to do around The Gunton Arms?
You can explore the deer park but we were told not to approach the herd as it was rutting season when we visited – we loved watching them from the pub garden while enjoying a glass of chilled Gavi. The pretty seaside town of Cromer is a 10-minute drive away, and the pub is an ideal base for visiting the beautiful North Norfolk coast. With its towering sand dunes, Holkham Beach is a must-see spot that’s loved by the royals as it’s close to Sandringham.
