There are few parts of the UK quite as dreamy as the Cotswolds, the famous region of golden-toned stone and chocolate-box villages. Therefore, we don't think you'll need much convincing to visit The Stroud, a boutique hotel with in-house restaurant and bar, buried in the heart of one of the Cotswolds' most famous villages, Stroud.
As you might expect (and hope!) The Stroud is brimming with history, housed within a Grade II Listed building that's proud to boast original features like exposed brick walls and rustic ceiling beams. To merge the classic with the contemporary, the interiors have a cool, country feel with plush booth and a gentle mix of patterns and rich colour palettes. It's certainly the kind of place you'll want to get a snap or two.
While the upstairs is privvy to 24 boutique bedrooms, downstairs its all about the food, with the stylish restaurant being an attraction for both locals and out-of-towners. In fact, the trains to Paddington only takes an hour and a half, making this a fabulous spot to come for the day.
When it comes to the menu, every hour of the day is catered for, with different selections for breakfast, brunch, express or light lunch, as well as evening, Sundays and pastry. For an example of what to expect, a few dishes from the main evening menu include braised chicken and chorizo proper pie, alongside a hearty selection of grass fed, native breed steaks and a whole section on the grill, with the likes of half spatchcock local chicken or grilled cauliflower steak cooked over flame.
Fancy a drink? The Bucknall Bar is named after the architect who designed this much loved building and is an atmospheric space, perfect for a stiff drink.