A little summary of my favourite (and arguably the best) British B&B’s.

Church Farm B&B, Suffolk

Step into the charming Church Farm B&B, where Ruth and Paul have turned their family’s heritage into a countryside retreat for over two decades. This delightful adults-only escape, just a stone’s throw from Bury St Edmunds and Lavenham, is set amidst the couple’s working farm, a legacy passed down from Paul’s grandfather in the 1950s. The two beautifully designed rooms—Pippin and Bramley—reflect Ruth’s creative eye.

They have private entrances and thoughtful details like homemade brownies and a selection of teas and coffees. Expect super king-sized beds in crisp luxury bed linens, sleek and spacious en-suite shower rooms, and heavenly Bramley bath products. In the morning, breakfast is a farm-to-table affair, with fresh produce from their land and local suppliers, not to mention homemade bread and jams. Outside, the orchards burst into life in spring, while winter brings a festive transformation as the farm becomes a Christmas tree wonderland with a Christmas barn selling decorations and trees. A short stroll away, you’ll find a cosy village pub, perfect for a pint and a bite after a day exploring Suffolk. With its personal touches and authentic charm, Church Farm B&B holds its own against the finest boutique hotels.

Rates from £125 per night, including breakfast.

Chillingham Manor, Northumberland

Chillingham Manor redefines countryside luxury in the heart of Northumberland’s rolling hills. Tucked away near iconic spots like Bamburgh Castle, Alnwick, and the mystical Holy Island of Lindisfarne, this beautifully restored manor feels like your own private estate.

Step inside and discover an atmosphere equal parts grandeur and warmth. The house is a treasure trove of antique furniture, original artwork, and carefully curated books and maps, all framed by Gothic floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the interiors with light. Sink into plush sofas by the wood-burning stove or unwind in spacious bedrooms with indulgent en-suites complete with deep-soak baths.

Until April, the experience reaches new heights with the option of evening meals from a set menu, turning a dreamy stay into a feast for the senses. Whether you’re after a romantic escape or a peaceful retreat, Chillingham Manor delivers quintessential English countryside living with a modern edge and exceptional service by the owners.

Rates from £150 per night, including breakfast.

Stay 2a, Kent

Stay 2a is a boutique gem in the vibrant coastal town of Folkestone, offering a chic and intimate escape. With just three beautifully designed, themed, and soundproof suites, this stylish B&B exudes character, blending contemporary interiors with a warm, personal touch. Housed in a charming Edwardian building, it is an ideal base for exploring the Creative Quarter, the bustling harbour, and nearby beaches.

A standout feature is the on-site Greek restaurant Sotirio’s, which serves authentic dishes bursting with Mediterranean flavours—truly a highlight for food enthusiasts. Perfect for a romantic getaway or a seaside retreat, Stay 2a combines modern luxury and exceptional service with Folkestone’s artistic charm.

From £80 per night, including breakfast.

Borough Court, Hampshire

History whispers through every stone at Borough Court, a secluded hideaway in the Hampshire countryside. Dating back to 1333, this former monastic property is now a peaceful B&B surrounded by 90 acres of meadows, woodland, and gardens.

Privacy is paramount here, with only two elegantly appointed double rooms. The Chinese Room combines en-suite convenience with a vintage-style basin, while the large attic room features a bright bathroom with a freestanding bath and a shower designed for two. Begin your day with an indulgent breakfast in the dining room—a spread of flaky croissants, fresh fruit, and eggs prepared to your liking, and served at your desired time. After breakfast, wander through the grounds or settle by the roaring fire in the drawing room. 

Rates from £145 per night, including breakfast.

Chatton Park House, Northumberland

Chatton Park House is a remarkable option for a slice of five-star luxury in the Northumberland countryside.

This adults-only British B&B provides an exclusive experience, featuring individually designed rooms in the main house and a private lodge for those seeking even more privacy. Breakfast is a highlight, with a menu that caters to every palate—from locally smoked kippers to creamy porridge drizzled with honey. Enjoy a game on the estate’s full-size tennis court during the summer, while eco-conscious travellers will appreciate the electric charging points available on site.

Conveniently located just minutes from the A1 and the village of Chatton, the estate is ideally positioned to explore Northumberland’s stunning beaches and historic landmarks. 

Rates from £199 per night, including breakfast.

Five Acre Barn, Suffolk

Five minutes from the artistic hub of Aldeburgh lies Five Acre Barn, an architectural gem set amidst sprawling gardens. This award-winning barn conversion marries sleek contemporary design with eco-conscious living.

The five ground-floor rooms are a minimalist masterclass, with polished concrete floors, underfloor heating, and natural light streaming through remote-controlled skylights. Bathrooms are a treat, with walk-in showers and luxurious Laura Thomas products. Sliding glass doors open onto private decked terraces, connecting seamlessly with the tranquil outdoors. Breakfast is a feast for the senses, with Bruce whipping up avocado toast with a touch of chilli or serving up his famous freshly baked cakes.

Sustainability is key, from the eco-friendly loo roll to the locally sourced coffee. Dog-friendly and full of heart, Five Acre Barn is perfect for a rejuvenating coastal getaway in Suffolk. 

Rates from £115 per night, including breakfast.

Westcroft Guesthouse, Cornwall

In the postcard-perfect village of Kingsand, Westcroft Guesthouse offers a luxurious yet homely B&B experience just steps from the sea. Owner Sarah has transformed this Cornish gem into a sanctuary where every detail sings with care—from six fluffy pillows on your bed to fresh flowers and lifestyle magazines in your room. The clocktower suite is pure romance, with its antique French bed and roll-top bath. The four-poster suite offers stunning bay views and a private sitting room. Book all four rooms in the summer for a self-catering coastal escape with family or friends. Wake up to coffee and the day’s newspaper magically appearing at your door, followed by a breakfast spread of pastries, fresh fruit, and poached eggs with a spicy kale twist. After breakfast, embrace Cornish life with a morning swim or a wander along the coastline—it’s all on your doorstep.

Rates from £130 per night, including breakfast. Exclusive rental available.

B&B Belgravia, London

B&B Belgravia provides a stylish and inviting escape in the capital. This boutique bed and breakfast blends contemporary comfort with a home-away-from-home atmosphere, making it a standout choice for travellers wishing to explore London. You can enjoy thoughtfully designed modern rooms, while the communal living area and garden offer snug spots to unwind after a day of exploration. Breakfast is a highlight, featuring a selection of fresh, locally sourced options to energise your adventures. Its central location, just a short stroll from Victoria Station and Buckingham Palace, makes it perfect for sightseeing while offering a quiet retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Convenience, comfort and charm rolled into one.

Rates from £139 including breakfast

www.thehotelguru.com

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Lulu Townsend's love of hotels started when she was young; her first job was making breakfast in a small hotel in Pimlico, London. Having lived in Spain, France and Italy In 2000 she catapulted her parents’ Umbrian hotel into all of the major travel magazines around the world before starting a boutique hotel marketing brand in 2002 from her garden shed. Her love and passion for boutique hotels and their owners was evident in her choice of independent hotels, villas and B&Bs. Lulu lives in Suffolk with her two daughters. Her reviews are authentic, firsthand and made through her critical and experienced eye. Note to all you hoteliers out there for a hotel of any level to be truly loved by Lulu the bathroom must have flannels! To find our more about Lulu visit her website lulusluxurylifestyle or @lulusluxurylifestyle