Located in the picturesque Cotswold village of Broadway, The Lygon Arms Hotel is a charming spot to switch off and relax.
Just two hours from London by train, this quintessentially British hotel is a former 16th-century coaching inn steeped in more than 600 years of fascinating history (guests have included both King Charles I and Oliver Cromwell). Here’s why it’s the perfect winter getaway, one that promises roaring log fires and cosy guest rooms.
The Vibe
You’ll find The Lygon in the middle of Broadway’s quaint high street, a place lined with chocolate box coffee shops and art galleries. The hotel interiors ooze period charm and showcase antique furniture, stone fireplaces and beamed ceilings. You’ll discover endless homely snugs, spongey sofas and warm fireplaces to shelter in, making this low-key property an ideal country retreat.
The Rooms
Courtyard suite
The Lygon Arms offers a variety of room categories; from cosy guestrooms and historical suites in the main building, to courtyard rooms with a private terrace, overlooking landscaped gardens. There’s also an adjoining cottage that would be an ideal base for families or those looking to spend some alone time in their own space. In keeping with the rest of the hotel, you’ll find traditional decor throughout each of its rooms. Some have fireplaces and four poster beds, and all are delicately finished with signature tartan soft furnishings.
The Spa
If you can pull yourself away from one of the many cosy corners, the hotel spa offers a myriad of relaxing treatments using skincare products from partners, Elemis and Oskia. Treatment rooms have a sense of calm and fuss-free atmosphere, and we recommend you indulge with The Lygon Warm Oil Massage which draws on eastern and western massage techniques. Afterwards, retreat to the calming indoor pool for some laps, or simply to while away a little more time on one of the loungers, or bubble away time in the hot tub.
The Food + Drink
What is a UK countryside break without filling yourself with hearty, British food. The Lygon Arms welcomes celebrity chef James Martin to its on-site restaurant, GRILL, following the success of his residence at sister hotel, Chewton Glen in Hampshire. Located in The Lygon’s picturesque grand hall, James and his talented brigade of chefs have curated an exclusive menu of exemplary dishes using local, artisanal and seasonal produce. Signature dishes include the Thai-Spiced Cornish Crab Risotto and Laverstoke Buffaloumi with Confit Roscoff onion, chilli jam and treviso while classic dishes include Dry-Aged Longhorn Beef Wellington served with watercress, braised king oyster mushrooms and truffled mash potato. Breakfast is also important here, and Martin makes sure every item is up to his usual standards, including working with local butchers, fishmongers, game dealers, farmers and cheese makers.
Things To Do
When you’re not out exploring the wider Cotswolds, one of the best things to do here is to enjoy a good book by the fire. There are plenty of options for exploring the local area, too. Take a walk to Broadway Tower on a clear day for some stunning countryside views, or visit the local high-street; it’s small but picturesque, and offers a few independently-run stores and galleries. Make sure to stop at Scents on the Green where perfumes from brands including Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari and Cartier are stocked. Back at the hotel, traditional afternoon tea is a must – take it with tea or champagne, or both. The hotel can also arrange various local excursions, including quad biking, archery and horse stable tours.
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