Fawsley Hall

There’s history, and then there’s history. Fawsley Hall has had its share of famous guests, but its Queen’s Suite is dedicated to none other than Elizabeth I, who last checked out in 1575. The old house has Victorian, Georgian and Tudor wings — all of which were contemporary at the time they were built.

That’s not to say you won’t find plenty that’s modern about the place. While the suites are the original article, as are many of the better rooms, Fawsley Hall contains nearly three dozen contemporary-styled rooms, in the main house, the converted stable block, and the spa building. In the older rooms there’s nothing in the way of décor that couldn’t have been installed in the 19th century or earlier; meanwhile the contemporary rooms mix a sedate, slightly minimalist style with modern facilities and occasional period details.

It’s ever so slightly on the large side for an English country house hotel, but that’s not a disadvantage. Guests have two restaurants to choose from, one fine-dining and one a more casual brasserie, as well as the extensive grounds, a first-class spa, and even a small screening room, with films regularly shown on the weekends. And if it was good enough for Elizabeth I….

Please note: Equilibrium Restaurant is open Tuesday - Saturday for evening reservations.

How to get there: Fawsley Hall is approximately a 45 minute drive from Birmingham (BHX), and 2 hours by car from London.