South-west countryside estate The Newt in Somerset has retained the number one spot in the Top 50 Boutique Hotels list, marking the third time it has taken the top slot.

Luxury and nature become one at the rural retreat where guests will be soothed by the stunning surrounding woodland and abundant gardens.

Nestled in the alluring working estate, home to acres of resplendent surroundings, The Newt also showcases the best of the sector through its bedrooms, which have been sensitively designed to highlight its history.

A tranquil spa with an indoor-outdoor pool, steam room, sauna, and treatment rooms provides the perfect place to unwind.

Last year’s number two Lime Wood Hotel in Lyndhurst, Hampshire, also kept its spot, while Heckfield Place in Hook, Hampshire, rose from four to three for 2024.

Similarly, Cornwall’s Padstow Townhouse, owned by well-known chef Paul Ainsworth, also saw a rise up the list of one place, coming in at number four. In fifth was Grantley Hall, Ripon, North Yorkshire, which soared from number eight this year.

A haven of calm in the leafy Cumbrian countryside and up from 45 to 36 this year, Farlam Hall Hotel & Restaurant was named the winner of the Food & Drink Award.

The stunning venue’s blend of history, nature, and luxury continues into its food and drink offerings. You can indulge in fine dining at its Michelin-starred restaurant, enjoy flavoursome and classic dishes at the bistro, or celebrate special occasions with its private dining offer.

A new entry to the 2024 list, Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa took the title of this year’s Service Award. Known as ‘hospitality artists’, each team member has extensive knowledge in their own area of specialism, meaning guests are in more than capable hands.

This year saw 12 new entries with hotels from a plethora of regions entering the much-anticipated list, which spans the full length and breadth of the UK.

Ed Bedington, the editor of The Morning Advertiser, which organises Top 50 Boutique Hotels, said, “These hotels represent the very height of luxury and splendour, and anyone looking for an indulgent and truly wonderful experience needs to look no further than any of the operations named on our list.

“It’s a real honour to be able to recognise these businesses for doing such amazing jobs and providing the kind of hospitality experience that is second to none.”

The Top 50 Boutique Hotel list follows the success of Top 50 Cocktail Bars and Top 50 Gastropubs. With all three lists, consumers now have the complete and definitive guide to where to eat, drink and sleep throughout the UK.

A bedroom suite at The Newt in Somerset.

The Top 10 Boutique Hotels:

1. The Newt in Somerset
2. Lime Wood Hotel, Lyndhurst
3. Heckfield Place, Hook
4. Padstow Townhouse, Padstow
5. Grantley Hall, Ripon
6. The Fife Arms, Braemar
7. Hampton Manor, Hampton in Arden
8. Moor Hall Restaurant with Rooms, Aughton
9. Dormy House Hotel & Spa, Broadway
10. Middleton Lodge, Richmond

See the full list and award winners here.

Photographs copyright of the Newt in Somerset.