Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Stay at the United Kingdom's Best Hotels, Inns

By Tess Kirkpatrick

From the wind-swept moors to the Scottish highlands, the United Kingdom is a diverse land - both in culture and geography. You'll discover quaint villages, castles, museums, galleries and much more.

If you are planning a trip to England, Scotland and Wales, it is best to create a list of what you would like to do and see. Fitting in everything can be difficult, and it's usually best to focus on your favorites and spend quality time exploring those areas rather than rush around from spot to spot. You might start in London and then explore nearby Kent and Sussex, enjoying all the attractions of the city, as well as castles and quaint villages. Another option is to spend your time exploring Wales, a country often passed by, yet full of promising possibilities. Or perhaps you want to explore Scotland with time to enjoy Edinburgh, "The Whisky Trail," and hope for a glimpse of the famous Loch Ness.

Travel writer Karen Brown has explored the United Kingdom and created several interesting itineraries for travelers to this exciting region. Her detailed plans include places to visit, as well as maps and traveling tips. Her readers also have voted and chosen the following lodgings as the best in England, Scotland and Wales:

These three countries are a romantic land -- a land of inspiration for a myriad of famous poets and writers. If it is romance you want, try the Gilpin Lodge, which was chosen by Karen Brown readers as England, Wales and Scotland's "Most Romantic" lodging choice. Located in England's Lake District National Park, the inn rests on 20 acres of gardens, woods and moors. The rooms are elegant, and each has been decorated individually. Every room offers a charming view of the gardens or moors. Spa treatments, such as massage with aromatherapy oils, can be arranged in the privacy of your room. Guests also enjoy privileges at a local "leisure club," which has a pool, sauna, steam room and fully equipped gym. Four rooms comprise the award-winning restaurant's dining areas. There is also a bar and afternoon tea is served in the lounge.

Bolhays, a lovely Victorian bed and breakfast in the appealing English town of Salisbury, is the recipient of the Karen Brown Readers' Choice Award for England, Wales and Scotland's for "Warmest Welcome." The two guest rooms are picture perfect English country retreats, and the marvelous homemade breakfasts are the perfect start to a day that might include a trip to Stonehenge or the famed Salisbury Cathedral. Your innkeepers, a warm and helpful sister-duo, are full of helpful information for travelers.

If budget is a consideration, and these days it often is, consider a stay at Meadowland in the famous English town of Bath. Voted England, Wales and Scotland's "Greatest Value" by Karen Brown readers, this English country home is just a 15-minute walk to the main part of Bath. The innkeepers strive to make their guests feel welcome, and home's elegant ambiance is just right. Breakfasts are homemade and hearty and often include specialties from innkeeper Catherine Andrew's native Scotland. Bath, a World Heritage Site, is full of interesting things to do and day trips include treks to the Cotswold villages or the cathedral towns of Salisbury and Wells.

Set on more than 100 acres in Hampshire, Chewton Glen offers all the amenities of a top resort with all the historic ambiance of a proper English country estate. Guest rooms and suites are individually decorated in a variety of styles from contemporary to romantic English country. The Marryat Suite is particularly captivating with its posh sitting area, fireplace and elegant furnishings. The Masterman Ready Suite is another opulent option featuring modern dcor and a clawfoot, soaking tub. Afternoon tea includes the hotel's own blend of tea, as well as a selection of fine sweets and savories. Dinner and lunch at the restaurant feature ever-changing seasonal menus with items such as fillet of Scottish beef or line-caught sea bass. This posh country inn was named as the region's top "Splendid Splurge" by Karen Brown readers.

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