Historic hotels reimagined as luxury stays – here’s what to book

Dumbleton Hall, Cotswolds

The historic Grade II-listed Dumbleton Hall, situated in the north Cotswolds, has recently reopened following a two-year restoration, which has returned the property to its former glory as an elegant country manor. The tranquil 16-acre estate includes a lake and walled gardens, making this a quintessential countryside escape, located minutes from the picturesque villages of Broadway and Winchcombe. Dumbleton Hall’s history – having hosted literary and historical figures, including Charles Dickens and the Mitford sisters – is reflected across its 34 individually designed bedrooms and grand public spaces, blending Belle Époque refinement with 1920s glamour and William Morris prints.

On the culinary front, executive chef Dean Westcar champions seasonal, locally sourced Cotswolds produce at the hotel’s main Cedar 1905 restaurant, while the Orangerie will offer intimate fine dining from August. To work up an appetite, various walking trails are within easy reach, as are the towns of Stratford-upon-Avon and Cheltenham for a night out.

From £380 a night, on a B&B basis for two people, dumbletonhall.co.uk

Pine Trees Hotel, Scottish Highlands

Pine Trees Hotel is tucked away in ten acres of woodland on the edge of Pitlochry in the Scottish Highlands. It is, in other words, a quiet retreat near the Cairngorms. The boutique property has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment, blending Victorian architecture with contemporary design across 32 individually styled rooms and suites. Guests are invited to unwind in the tranquil surroundings by embracing the local concept of coorie, meaning “to get cosy” in Scots.

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At the hotel’s restaurant, Fauna, executive chef Tom Scade celebrates seasonal Scottish produce, while at the stylish Flora bar an extensive whisky selection is offered, along with the popular Pine Trees Margarita cocktail.

This summer, Pine Trees Hotel is launching a new “Woodland Wellness” concept, which includes access to an Estonian Iglucraft igloo-shaped sauna, plunge pool, and wood-fired hot tub. Later in the season, the property will also unveil East Haugh House, a new 11-bedroom exclusive-use residence perfect for larger groups.

From £358 a night, pinetreeshotel.co.uk

Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane

The iconic Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane recently unveiled 14 newly renovated suites. London-based studio Interiors with Art lent a hand in designing the interiors, fusing the hotel’s subtle Art Deco features with contemporary style. The team drew inspiration from the nearby Hyde Park for the sycamore wood panelling, for example, along with the brushed metal finishes, Murano glass lighting and warm autumnal palette.

On the fifth floor, sweeping views of the park can be had from the spacious Presidential Suite. It has a formal dining room with a butler’s pantry, bespoke marble accents and a fireplace. The Royal Terrace Suite has its own vast garden terrace, making it ideal for entertaining or relaxing in nature despite being in the heart of Mayfair, while the Garden Suite overlooks the hotel’s own private garden, blending indoor and outdoor living with bronze-accented interiors and a spacious landscaped terrace.

From £4,700 a night in the suites, fourseasons.com/london

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