After a busy week in the city, the glowing buttery Cotswold-stone façade of this former Rectory was a sight for sore eyes. Set in the pretty-as-a-picture Wiltshire village of Crudwell, the hotel underwent a huge 6-month renovation in early 2017, transforming it into an elegant and peaceful rural retreat. Step inside and it’s all deep velvet sofas, modern art, vintage maps and cosy window seats.
The 15 bedrooms have been given a country-chic makeover; soft sisal flooring, sage velvet sofas, artfully strewn blankets and claw-foot tubs abound. The marble-topped bar, with its glittering array of bottles, will tempt you to sample pre-dinner cocktails. Later, head through to the welcoming restaurant for a decadent dinner. On a winter's day, there are roaring log fires in the lounge. In summer, the gardens are beautiful for relaxing in, with a heated pool plus plenty of tables and seats dotted around. For days out, you're within easy striking distance of the antiques shops of Tetbury, Cirencester or even Bath. Pack a good book, some wellies and your appetite – Cotswolds bliss awaits.
Highs
- The elegant on-site bar and restaurant for indulgent dinners, plus a buzzy sister pub just over the road
- Large bright and airy bedrooms, many with claw-foot tubs, and a spacious 3-bedroom cottage
- A heated outdoor pool (usually open May-Oct) and beautiful gardens for lazy summer days
- A great Cotswolds location - easy to get to via train or car (90 minutes' drive from London)
- Warm, friendly staff
Lows
- Children can be accommodated but they may find the adult atmosphere a little boring
- As is often the case in the Cotswolds, good food comes with a price tag to match
- You'll need to ask at reception for the WiFi code (no phones in the rooms)
- Some steep stairs to the top floor and low ceilings in the hallways
- No twin rooms
Best time to go
A charming destination in any season - we loved the autumn colours during our visit, but in winter we can imagine the cosy rooms and log fires making this is a really romantic bolthole.
Our top tips
If you fancy a car-free weekend of walking, eating and relaxing this is a great place to do it. Train to Kemble station, from where it's an easy taxi to The Rectory.
Location
The Rectory is located in the village of Crudwell, in Wiltshire. It sits between Malmesbury and Cirencester.
By Train
The nearest train station is Kemble (6km / 3 miles). It's 70 minutes from London Paddington sation. See Seat 61 for more details.
By Air and/or Car
Heathrow is about 1 hour away and Bristol is 45 minutes. See our car rental recommendations. You'll need to bring your own electric car charger to plug in to a socket, for an additional cost.
Detailed directions will be provided when you book through i-escape.
More on getting to the UK and getting around.
Airports:
- Bristol 65.0 km BRS
Other:
- Beach 200.0 km
- Shops 5.0 km
- Restaurant 0.0 km
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 4 independent reviews from i-escape guests
We've been going here for 15yrs for quick breaks....the hotel is wonderfully quirky, the food is now fabulous thanks to an amazing chef. We love it...especially with sunshine & a swim...
Rectory was very good - excellent food and good value too. Would recommend.
The setting is spectacular, the house and rooms are decorated to perfection. So cosy and yet elegant. Their sister pub The Potting Shed does the best food. The only thing I found that let them down was that they did not know how to make a good cocktail.
We have stayed here now three times over the last two years. Every time we have had the most wonderful stay. The pool is dreamy! The staff are always smiling and so helpful. The food and drinks are exceptional! We have consistently had the most amazing time staying at the Rectory. We will no doubt be back again soon. Thank you so much!
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape