12 lovely riverside hotels in the UK that are perfect for a staycation
Whether it’s a charming country pub in a renowned beauty spot, or a stylish place to stay on the border between Surrey and London, we're spoilt for choice when it comes to idyllic riverside hotels in the UK. Scenic riverside cities like Oxford and West Country villages, many of them dating back hundreds or even thousands of years, are some of the best places for a relaxing weekend trip from London, where you can forget the stresses of flying – and still be treated to stunning backdrops like the dramatic peaks of the Lake District.
Riverside hotels in the city are at their most stylish in spring and summer too, when their chic terrace bars make them the centre of attention – and a stay at one is an excellent way to feel like you’re part of local life. Out in the countryside, we love waking up by the water and enjoying a morning stroll – especially before tucking into a delicious home-cooked breakfast at a gourmet hotel.
So, to inspire your next break, we’ve reviewed 12 of our favourite hotels for a riverside stay, where you’ll be guaranteed a wonderful night’s sleep, gorgeous views and some mouthwatering dishes from top-notch restaurants to boot.
Check out the best riverside hotels in the UK for a 2024 staycation:
The Old Mill, Hampshire
Wander through rambling gardens down to the River Avon and you'll find this cute pub in Hampshire. Previously a water mill, The Old Mill has been handsomely renovated into a boutique hotel right by the stunning expanse of the New Forest.
Head to the pergola for a quiet place to relax, or for more atmosphere enjoy a pre-dinner drink on the terrace right by the river. As well as fantastic food in the restaurant, you’ll be treated to modern luxuries in the rooms’ trendy en-suite bathrooms – some of which have freestanding tubs.
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The Swan Hotel and Spa, Lake District
Boasting one of the Lake District's best locations at the edge of Windermere, The Swan has a fun, laidback atmosphere and is very welcoming to families, who can book out a whole suite to stay in together.
Dog owners who want to make the most of the great walks nearby are well looked-after too. As well as the informal pub serving food all day, there’s a fine dining restaurant and a terrace by the River Leven outside, where you can soak up the Lake District’s stunning scenery. Back inside, there’s a pool and spa to relax in after a day’s walking or exploring nearby towns.
Riverside Inn, Herefordshire
Run by its former head chef, the aptly named Riverside Inn at Aymestrey has two AA Rosettes for its sophisticated modern British dishes, which have a big emphasis on sustainability.
Here, everything – including the honey – is made by the kitchen team. The rooms at this luxurious riverside hotel are equally top notch, with nice touches like Noble Isle toiletries.
For extra space, opt for the magnificent Hayloft Suite, or choose a garden lodge with a private terrace overlooking the river.
Master Builder's House Hotel, Hampshire
For those looking to explore the New Forest National Park, there aren’t many Hampshire hotels more historic than Master Builder’s House, located right by the river in beautiful Beaulieu.
It’s in the former home of Henry Adams, a master shipbuilder who worked for Admiral Nelson and made three ships that fought in the Battle of Trafalgar.
There are bags of period features inside and plenty of the rooms have views of the river. Enjoy a drink next to it out on the terrace of the two-AA Rosette Riverview Restaurant, which specialises in fresh seafood. With children and dogs welcome too, this is a fantastic option for a fun UK holiday in the New Forest.
Richmond Hill Hotel, London
One of London’s most beautiful parks is right on your doorstep at Richmond Hill Hotel, as well as the chic shopping streets of Richmond and its atmospheric Thameside pubs. A stay here combines the best of a London city break with the charm of the Surrey countryside nearby, which is easy to explore on a bike.
The hotel looks out across Petersham Meadows, an iconic view immortalised by legendary British painter JMW Turner. Grab a gourmet picnic from sister restaurant 144 On The Hill to enjoy by the Thames, or head into the park to spot wildlife including red and fallow deer.
Minster Mill Hotel & Spa, Cotswolds
Luxury spa hotels don’t come much better than this irresistible Cotswolds retreat, which matches its pretty surroundings with stylish Scandi interiors and state-of-the-art facilities. At Minster Mill Hotel & Spa, the Garden Spa has a heated plunge pool, rock sauna and aroma steam room, plus an indulgent menu of ESPA treatments.
There are also two restaurants – the relaxed Mill Bar and three-AA Rosette fine dining restaurant – along with a terrace, gardens and a croquet lawn. For added romance, choose a Feature Room and you’ll have your own private terrace with a fire-pit overlooking the River Windrush.
The Newbridge on Usk, Monmouthshire
With six en-suite rooms in a remote riverside spot in the Welsh countryside, The Newbridge on Usk is a place to enjoy some real R&R without any of the interruptions of the modern world.
A weekend here is best spent going for romantic walks in the stunning countryside all around you, tucking into the restaurant’s award-winning Welsh food, and relaxing out by the river when the weather’s warm, sipping a cocktail on the hotel’s pretty terrace.
The Head of the River, Oxford
This riverside hotel is the ideal place to soak up the atmosphere of one of the world’s most famous universities. Oxford and Cambridge’s famous annual boat race inspires much of the décor inside The Head of the River, with faux bookcases and framed novels continuing the academic theme, and exposed brickwork and wooden floors adding a modern touch.
Kids are welcome, so the whole family can enjoy a short punt up the river to explore the city centre. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, try the pub’s tasty seasonal dishes or head out onto the terrace – one of Oxford’s most popular places for a drink thanks to its scenic location and great selection of beers and wines, plus a full gin list.
The Talbot, Yorkshire
A former coaching inn on the River Derwent, The Talbot is a great option for a stylish stay in the foodie hotspot of Malton – one of Yorkshire’s most on-trend towns. You’ll find inviting rooms with some nice extras like Nespresso machines inside, plus bags of space to relax and period features in the highest category Four Poster rooms, while Deluxe Doubles boast freestanding tubs.
It’s a sociable place to stay too, thanks to the beautiful gardens that stretch down to the river, a comfy lounge and two terraces – one of which looks out across the water. Check out the gin distillery opposite the hotel for a fun afternoon out, and bring your dog along to make the most of the great walks nearby.
The Saracens Head Inn, Herefordshire
Experience the Wye Valley at The Saracens Head Inn, a family-run pub with rooms in the pretty village of Symonds Yat. Outdoor activities you can try during a stay here include angling and golf, or just pull on your boots and take a scenic stroll around this popular beauty spot.
The rooms are light and modern, with contemporary bathrooms and smart TVs as standard, and you can dine on the terrace right by the river, choosing from a menu of dishes that draw inspiration from all over the world to show off Welsh and West Country produce.
The Mitre, Surrey
When it comes to riverside hotels, The Mitre is the perfect choice for those looking for the royal treatment. Resplendent on the Thames and a mere 500 metres from Hampton Court Palace, this Grade II-listed riverside landmark was originally built to accommodate King Charles II's courtiers in 1665. Now, it's a boutique hotel brimming with character but also offering a pleasingly escapist country house feel.
The rooms and suites are havens of boutique comfort uplifted with touches of eccentricity, courtesy of bold patterned wallpaper, four-poster beds and huge copper bath tubs. There's also a restaurant, cafe and excellent bar, The Boathouse, with glorious river views.
Sea Containers, London
Set on the banks of the River Thames and minutes away from top London attractions – including the Tate Modern and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre – Sea Containers is a prime spot in the capital. As well as the stellar location, the hotel wows with its interiors too, from its 1920s transatlantic cruise liner aesthetic to the Tom Dixon furniture that elevates the rooms.
For the most indulgent experience, it's worth booking a river view suite so you can truly drink in the views. And speaking of drinks, Sea Containers is home to the award-winning Lyaness, which serves innovative cocktails – ideal for working up an appetite for the American-British restaurant. There's also a spa and even a Curzon cinema to keep you entertained.
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