The Perfect English Countryside Getaway In Gloucester

Looking at getting out of the city this winter and in search of an idyllic rural stay? This hotel in the Cotswolds comes highly recommended – and you can book your stay on Culture Trip.

If there’s one thing we all love about the English countryside, it’s the peacefulness. It has a magical ability to calm everything down, and no matter how busy you are in the big city, once you are in a rural setting, it’s as if you belong here and the whole world is yours.

The view towards Gloucester from the Barrow Wake at Birdlip

Another highlight of the English countryside is you can always find a cosy place to stay. Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall is one of the best of such hotels, located in beautiful Gloucester, it lies on the River Severn, between the Cotswolds to the east and the Forest of Dean to the west.

The cosy hotel lounge looks out onto spectacular countryside

The 72-room Georgian hotel, set in 12 acres (5ha) of parkland, has been refurbished throughout, so the interior design looks modern and elegant – perfect for a wedding or special occasion. Enjoy cocktails at the bar – or order afternoon tea in the lounge, where you can sit and relax, and just take in nature through the floor-to-ceiling windows.

The dining room is beautifully airy, with floor-to-ceiling windows

Given the great location, the Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall is the perfect spot for an English countryside getaway. The interior design of the guest rooms is all about taking you back to nature but in a cosy way, with warm wool blankets, cute animal prints, floral curtains, plus the warm fireplace for a cold winter’s day.

The rooms are cool and elegant, guaranteeing a relaxing stay

Food is important in any hotel — but especially in those that are not on the high street. After a day exploring the local countryside, you can enjoy a meal either in the hotel restaurant or with room service, and the menu at the Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall won’t disappoint. Whether it’s lamb sourced from local farms or the baked-cheese starter, the chef will make sure the food is authentic and exactly what you need.

And if dining in the restaurant sounds too humdrum, why not head down to the lake where you can choose from one of three VIPods for a truly unique winter dining experience. Even if it’s chilly outside, inside these pods are cosy and atmospheric, with music, flowers – and amazing food. What more could you ask for on a cold wintry night?

The outdoor pods are a unique dining experience

These VIPods are in demand, so if you want a special date night, book your place now.

Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall

Hotel

If it’s cosiness with a splash of style you’re after to get away from big city pressures, look no further than this Cotswold retreat, set in 12 acres (5ha) of parkland. You’ll feel right at home, whether you opt for a classic double room kitted out with all the essentials, or a superior suite complete with garden views, high-speed wifi, a Nespresso coffee machine and complimentary newspaper each morning. With six meeting rooms, it also functions as a business retreat. Treat yourself to the honey roast duck or Mediterranean vegetable wellington at the modern on-site restaurant before settling in at the bar with an expertly made cocktail.