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This 1700s country house with a massive spa and Michelin-starred restaurant is Britain’s greatest hotel in 2026, according to a luxury travel magazine

Condé Nast Traveller has named the winners of its 2026 Readers' Choice Awards – and among them is this seriously swanky equine escape in Wiltshire

Eloise Feilden
Written by
Eloise Feilden
Contributor, Time Out UK
Lucknam Park hotel in Wiltshire
Photograph: Booking.com | Lucknam Park hotel in Wiltshire
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These fair British Isles may be small, but when it comes to world-class accommodation, they’re mighty. From rural inns with rooms to swanky townhouse stays and luxury resorts, the UK is practically bursting at the seams with quality places to rest your head. You can find a whole range of abodes in Time Out’s recent list of the 20 best hotels in the country.

But we’re not the only ones with something to say about Britain’s top accommodation options. Condé Nast Traveller has just published its 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards – which were based on votes from the magazine’s readership – naming Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa in Wiltshire the finest stay outside London. 

We might suggest that CN Traveller has a horse fanatic or two among its readers, because Lucknam Park is a hotspot for equine experiences. The palladian mansion, which sits at the southern edge of the Cotswolds, offers a riding programme for everyone from seasoned riders to adult beginners, children and families.

The spa at Lucknam Park hotel in Wiltshire
Photograph: Booking.comThe spa at Lucknam Park hotel in Wiltshire

Once you’ve finished trotting your way around Lucknam Park’s ancient woodlands, gardens and narrow lanes, its dining options are also very much worth exploring. The classic country house is home to Restaurant Hywel Jones, which has held a Michelin Star for more than 20 years and serves up dishes including Brecon lamb with a rich, glossy lamb and red wine jus.

These posh digs are also home to a very fancy spa, which features 20-metre indoor pool, an indoor/outdoor hydrotherapy pool, five thermal cabins and a skincare ‘mixology’ bar. Sounds fancy, eh? And it’s all less than half an hour from Bath.

You can check prices and find out more about Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa on Booking.com here.

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