The Best Hotels, Restaurants and Shops to Visit in the Cotswolds — the Hamptons of London

Hollywood Reporter

by Tim Chan

February 21, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Cotswolds, often referred to as the "Hamptons of London," offer a unique blend of timeless charm and modern luxury, making them a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an upscale countryside escape. Just two hours from central London, this picturesque region is renowned for its honey-colored villages, manicured gardens, and historic stone cottages nestled in rolling hills. In recent years, the Cotswolds have gained fame as a playground for billionaires, with a proliferation of private members' clubs, wellness estates, and design-forward boutique hotels. This area is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, where centuries-old pubs serve forward-thinking cuisine, and upscale shopping ranges from chic linens to hand-thrown teacups. For those looking to experience the Cotswolds in style, there are several standout accommodations worth exploring. Thyme, located in Southrop, is a 150-acre former manor estate transformed into a charming destination village. Offering a cookery school, a chic Meadow Spa, and dining in a restored barn, Thyme combines sustainability with elegance, featuring uniquely designed guest rooms with antique furnishings and fresh garden blooms. For a more contemporary vibe, Cowley Manor Experimental in Cheltenham has been reimagined by the trendsetting Experimental Group, blending maximalist interiors and an underground spa with slate-lined pools and herbal steam rooms. This 31-room hotel also features a restaurant serving modern European takes on British classics. For a touch of glamour, Estelle Manor in Oxfordshire offers neo-Jacobean architecture

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/21/2026