After the festive indulgence, January calls for a restorative escape that won't break the bank. We've curated a selection of six exceptional country house hotels across the UK, each offering spa facilities and overnight stays for under £160, providing the perfect antidote to the winter blues.
From Sussex Downs to Scottish Highlands: A Tour of Affordable Luxury
These hotels prove that a touch of luxury and a peaceful retreat are accessible without a hefty price tag. Each property combines historic charm with modern comforts, including spas, stunning locations, and excellent dining.
The Alfriston, East Sussex
Nestled on the edge of a picturesque Sussex village, The Alfriston reopened in spring 2023 under new ownership. This red-brick manor, with parts dating to the 14th century, now boasts an Arts and Crafts-inspired interior with block-printed wallpapers and warm wood panelling.
The standout feature is its 10-metre heated outdoor pool, open year-round. Guests can also enjoy a sauna, steam room, and a small spa for treatments. The 1554 Brasserie serves a crowd-pleasing menu, with dishes like haunch of fallow deer. Doubles start from £135 on a bed and breakfast basis.
Wildhive Callow Hall, Derbyshire
Just outside Ashbourne, Wildhive Callow Hall blends a grand Victorian mansion with a contemporary glass-box restaurant. Designer Isabella Worsley has injected vibrant colours and patterns into the historic spaces.
The estate's Coach House contains a spa offering botanical facials and massage, a yoga studio, and a gym. Guests have complimentary use of bikes to explore the nearby 13-mile Tissington Trail. Rooms in the main house offer the best value, with doubles from £157 room-only.
The Cliff Hotel & Spa, Cardigan Bay
Perched on a headland overlooking Cardigan Bay, this hotel offers a sleek, contemporary retreat. Its 76 rooms feature calming colours that reflect the Atlantic views.
Activities abound, from coastal walks and dolphin spotting to golf on the hotel's nine-hole course. The underground spa includes a hydrotherapy pool, steam room, and sauna, with a one-hour spa session included in the room rate. Treatments start from around £70. Doubles are from £110 B&B.
The Barnsdale, Rutland
Located near Rutland Water, The Barnsdale provides superb value in England's smallest historic county. Its 45 bedrooms surround a courtyard, and the atmosphere is relaxed and generous.
A notable perk is the unfettered access to the sauna, hot tub, and outdoor pool from midday on arrival until departure. The hotel also offers a complimentary afternoon drink. Massages are priced at £90 for 60 minutes. Doubles start from £125 B&B (£105 on Sundays).
Dunkeld House Hotel, Perthshire
This elegant 19th-century white house, built for a duke, sits beside the River Tay. The interior features wood panelling, tartan carpets, and a welcoming DIY whisky dram.
The spa offers a pool, indoor hot tub, and treatments using Hebridean seaweed. The restaurant highlights Highland produce, such as venison loin. For a special stay, the Duchess suite boasts a balcony and art deco styling. Doubles start from £144 B&B.
Wood Hall Hotel & Spa, West Yorkshire
An ivy-clad Georgian manor set within 100 acres of parkland near Wetherby, Wood Hall provides a cosseting yet unstuffy escape. Its 44 bedrooms are decorated in soothing greys.
The Elemis spa features a pool, steam room, and gym, with treatments from £60. The dining room serves a seasonal menu, with options like pan-fried wood pigeon breast. Doubles are from £130 B&B.
All lead-in prices are for a one-night stay in January or February, offering an ideal opportunity for a revitalising and affordable new year reset.
