After the festive indulgence, January calls for a restorative escape that won't break the bank. We've found six of the best affordable country house hotels across the UK, each boasting spa facilities and rooms for under £160 a night, offering the perfect antidote to the winter blues.
A Sussex Retreat with Historic Charm
On the edge of a picturesque East Sussex village, The Alfriston reopened under new ownership last spring. This red-brick manor, with parts dating to the 14th century, now features an Arts and Crafts-inspired interior with block-printed wallpapers and warm wood panelling.
The standout feature is its 10-metre heated outdoor pool, open year-round. Guests can also enjoy a sauna, steam room, or a treatment in the small spa. The 1554 Brasserie serves a crowd-pleasing menu, with dishes like haunch of fallow deer. Doubles start from £135 B&B.
Derbyshire's Design-Led Bolthole
Wildhive Callow Hall near Ashbourne offers a contemporary twist on the country house hotel. Set in 35 acres, its Victorian mansion interiors have been revitalised with bold colours and patterns by designer Isabella Worsley.
The Coach House contains a spa offering botanical facials and massage, a yoga studio, and complimentary bikes for exploring the nearby Tissington Trail. The buzzy restaurant, with its glass-box extension, is a highlight. Doubles start from £157 room-only.
Coastal Wellness in Cardigan Bay
Perched on a headland overlooking Cardigan Bay, The Cliff Hotel & Spa provides a breezy coastal reset. Its 76 rooms feature a slick, contemporary design reflecting the Atlantic views.
Activities abound, from coastal walks spotting dolphins to golf on the hotel's nine-hole course. The underground spa is a major draw, with a hydrotherapy pool, steam room, and treatments from around £70. An hour's spa access is included in the room rate. Doubles from £110 B&B.
Rutland's Reservoir-Side Haven
Located near the vast Rutland Water, The Barnsdale in Rutland offers quiet appeal and superb value. Its 45 bedrooms surround a courtyard, and the atmosphere is one of relaxed generosity.
Guests enjoy complimentary 4pm drinks and unfettered access to the sauna, hot tub, and outdoor pool from midday on arrival. Massages are priced at £90 for 60 minutes. Doubles start from £125 B&B, with Sunday rates from £105.
A Perthshire Estate on the River Tay
The approach to Dunkeld House Hotel in Perthshire is dreamlike, through tree-studded parkland. This 19th-century former ducal retreat sits beside the River Tay, offering a warm welcome complete with a complimentary dram.
The spa uses ishga Hebridean seaweed in its treatments and features a pool with garden views. The restaurant highlights Highland produce, such as venison loin. Doubles with breakfast start from £144.
Unstuffy Elegance in West Yorkshire
For a cosseting yet unstuffy escape, Wood Hall Hotel & Spa near Wetherby fits the bill. This ivy-clad Georgian manor is set within 100 acres of parkland yet remains accessible to Leeds and York.
The Elemis spa offers treatments from £60 and includes a pool and gym. The dining room serves a seasonal menu featuring dishes like pan-fried wood pigeon breast. Doubles are available from £130 B&B.
All lead-in prices are for a one-night stay in January or February, offering an accessible route to a rejuvenating start to the new year.
