Exploring the Charm and Sophistication of the English Countryside By Dawn Wilson
I always say the best vacations begin with your choice of accommodations; in this case, it’s no different. Staying at The Pig hotels in the English countryside was one of the best decisions I made, as they set the tone for the rest of my visit. Each one of their charming hotels was as welcoming and luxurious as the one before it. They are not just known for their desirable locations, décor, and furnishings; they are also well-known for their farm-to-table restaurants. It is why they are considered a restaurant with rooms. This speaks volumes about the quality of food served at their hotel restaurants.
Our exploration of the English countryside started at The Pig near Bath Hotel. It is located in the picturesque Mendip Hills countryside of Somerset and is a charming country house hotel that effortlessly blends rustic charm with modern luxury. The interior design of the hotel is a delightful mix of shabby chic and vintage elegance, featuring an eclectic collection of antique furniture, mismatched fabrics, and quirky accessories. The walls are adorned with hunting trophies, botanical prints, and countryside-themed artwork, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The rooms are individually designed, each offering a unique and cozy retreat. Expect plush beds with high-quality linens, vintage-style furnishings, and delightful touches like clawfoot tubs, wood-burning fireplaces, and countryside views. While I loved all the rooms I viewed, I was most impressed with my cozy room with its wood-burning stove. It was just what I needed on a cold, rainy day like the day of our arrival. The attention to detail is impeccable, with a mix of textures and patterns that create a homely yet sophisticated feel.
The hotel's restaurant is a true highlight, renowned for its farm-to-table dining experience. The menu focuses on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, much of which is grown in the hotel’s kitchen garden. The dining room itself is a charming space with rustic wooden tables, exposed beams, and large windows that let in plenty of natural light.
The bar, with its cozy ambiance, is perfect for relaxing with a drink. It features a range of local ales, fine wines, and creative cocktails. The décor is equally charming, with leather armchairs, vintage bar stools, and an inviting fireplace, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring the beautiful surroundings.
Bath, Somerset, England
There is so much to love about nearby Bath. Bath is a historic city in Somerset, England, famed for its stunning Georgian architecture and rich heritage. At its heart are the Roman Baths, an ancient complex of thermal springs and bathing facilities that date back to Roman times, now a fascinating museum and at the root of the city's origins.
The Royal Crescent, an iconic curved row of 30 terraced houses, exemplifies Georgian elegance and offers panoramic views of the parkland below. Nearby, The Circus, a circular arrangement of grand townhouses, showcases classical Palladian architecture.
Bath's literary history is celebrated at the Jane Austen Centre, dedicated to the famous author who once lived in the city and set two of her novels there.
Its picturesque streets and stunning architecture have made it a popular filming location for period dramas, including adaptations of Jane Austen's novels and the hit series "Bridgerton." The city's timeless beauty and historical significance make it a must-visit destination.
The Scallop Shell in Bath is a renowned seafood restaurant, celebrated for its fresh, sustainably sourced dishes and shouldn’t be missed when visiting the city. Popular menu items include the classic fish and chips, featuring crispy battered fish with hand-cut fries, and the grilled scallops, known for their succulent, flavorful preparation.
The Pig on the Beach Hotel
The Pig on the Beach Hotel, located on the stunning Dorset coastline, is a whimsical and enchanting retreat that offers breathtaking views of the English Channel. The hotel's interiors are a charming blend of rustic elegance and seaside chic, with a whimsical touch that reflects its coastal setting. The public spaces feature an eclectic mix of vintage furniture, quirky accessories, and playful artwork, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. The use of reclaimed wood, soft pastel colors, and nautical themes adds to the hotel's unique charm.
The rooms at The Pig on the Beach are individually styled, each offering a cozy and luxurious haven. Expect plush beds with crisp linens, antique furnishings, and thoughtful touches like clawfoot tubs and wood-burning stoves. Many rooms offer stunning sea views, and some even have private terraces or gardens. The decor combines traditional elements with modern comforts, creating a space that feels both homely and indulgent.
The restaurant at The Pig on the Beach is a culinary delight, focusing on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The menu is heavily influenced by the hotel's coastal location, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and produce. The dining room is a charming space with rustic wooden tables, mismatched chairs, and large windows that offer stunning views of the sea and surrounding countryside.
The bar, with its cozy and eclectic ambiance, is perfect for unwinding with a drink. It features a selection of local ales, fine wines, and creative cocktails. The decor is a delightful mix of vintage bar stools, comfortable armchairs, and nautical touches, making it an inviting space to relax after a day exploring the beautiful Dorset coast.
The best way to start or end a visit at The Pig on the Beach is to Indulge in total relaxation with a customized massage at one of the sheep huts with lovely sea views.
Lyme Regis, Dorset, England
During our visit, we ventured to Lyme Regis, a picturesque coastal town in Dorset, England, which is renowned for its stunning scenery and historical charm. Situated on the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the area is famed for its fossil-rich cliffs and spectacular views. Lyme Regis has served as a backdrop for several films, including "The French Lieutenant's Woman," which showcased its iconic Cobb harbor, "Ammonite," a biographical drama about fossil hunter Mary Anning, and "Wonka," featuring Timothée Chalamet. Jane Austen's stories, particularly "Persuasion," have also been set and filmed here, capturing the town’s timeless beauty. The town's quaint streets, historic buildings, and sandy beaches attract visitors year-round. Beyond its cinematic allure, Lyme Regis offers a rich array of attractions, including fossil hunting, the Lyme Regis Museum, and delightful seaside dining, making it a must-visit destination on the Jurassic Coast.
The Cobb Arms in Lyme Regis is a charming seaside pub located near the iconic Cobb harbor, which is where we enjoyed a hearty and delicious lunch. Known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and picturesque views, it offers a cozy setting for both locals and visitors. The pub's menu features a variety of popular dishes, with standout items including the hearty fish and chips, made with locally sourced fish, and the flavorful seafood platter, showcasing the freshest catches from the nearby coast. Guests also enjoy the deliciously prepared Dorset crab salad and the classic British Sunday roast, making The Cobb Arms a favorite dining spot in Lyme Regis.
Isle of Purbeck in Dorset, England
We also visited Swanage, another charming seaside town, on the Isle of Purbeck in Dorset, England. It is celebrated for its stunning coastal views and nostalgic charm. A highlight is the Swanage Railway, a heritage steam railway offering scenic rides through the picturesque countryside. This quaint town has been a popular filming location, notably for "Nanny McPhee" and "The Boat That Rocked," capturing its timeless allure. Swanage’s sandy beaches, Victorian pier, and vibrant seafront make it a delightful destination for tourists seeking a blend of natural beauty and historical charm, with the railway adding a touch of vintage travel experience.
Shell Bay restaurant in Dorset is a seaside gem renowned for its breathtaking views and exceptional seafood. Situated along Studland Bay, it offers a quintessential coastal dining experience. Due to its popularity, we had to stop in to check it out for ourselves. I’m pleased to say that it lived up to its reputation. The food was very fresh and perfectly prepared. It left us wanting more! Popular menu items include the fresh, locally sourced seafood platter, featuring oysters, mussels, and prawns, and the grilled sea bass, known for its exquisite flavor and perfect preparation.
The Pig in New Forest
Located within the idyllic landscapes of the New Forest National Park, the original hotel, The Pig, exudes rustic charm and natural beauty. The surrounding scenery is a tapestry of ancient woodland, rolling meadows, and tranquil gardens, creating a serene backdrop for this boutique country house hotel. It was like something out of a fairytale, as was much of the landscape and scenery we saw along the countryside and coastal areas of England.
Stepping into The Pig, guests are greeted by a cozy and inviting interior design that blends classic English elegance with quirky, contemporary touches. The common areas feature plush sofas, roaring fireplaces, and an eclectic mix of vintage furnishings and botanical artwork, evoking a sense of relaxed luxury.
The rooms continue the theme of rustic sophistication, each uniquely decorated with antique furniture, luxurious fabrics, and thoughtful amenities. Many rooms offer views of the expansive gardens or the forest beyond, providing a peaceful retreat.
The restaurant at The Pig is renowned for its 'garden-to-plate' philosophy, with much of the produce sourced from the hotel's extensive kitchen garden. The menu celebrates seasonal ingredients, offering dishes that highlight the best of local flavors. The dining experience is enhanced by the charming ambiance of the conservatory or the intimate dining rooms, where guests can enjoy a culinary journey amidst elegant surroundings.
The bar, with its relaxed atmosphere and an impressive selection of wines and cocktails, is a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring the New Forest. The decor features reclaimed wood, comfortable seating, and subtle nods to the hotel's rural setting, creating a welcoming space for guests to savor a drink or two.
Overall, The Pig is a haven of tranquility and natural beauty, where guests can indulge in fine dining, unwind in luxurious surroundings, and immerse themselves in the serene landscapes of the New Forest National Park.
Hartnett & Holder Co, located in the New Forest at Lime Wood Hotel, offers a sophisticated dining experience in a relaxed setting. This was our last dinner in the English countryside, and I can honestly say that we saved the best for last. Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Angela Hartnett and Lime Wood's Luke Holder, the restaurant focuses on seasonal British cuisine with an Italian twist. We had the honor of being seated at the ‘chef’s table’ where we were treated to a specially curated menu by a team of passionate and talented cooks, chefs, and servers. Like the many restaurants we visited, dishes showcase fresh, locally sourced produce, including seafood, meats, and vegetables from nearby suppliers and the restaurant's private gardens, crafted into creative and flavorful culinary creations. The ambiance is elegant yet approachable, featuring a stylish decor that complements the natural surroundings. Known for its exceptional food and warm hospitality, Hartnett & Holder Co is a destination for culinary enthusiasts seeking a blend of creativity and culinary excellence.
Our trip to the English countryside simply would not have been complete without a visit to The Bombay Sapphire Distillery which gave us a captivating journey into the world of gin-making. Situated in the historic Laverstoke Mill, we explored the beautifully restored Victorian buildings and learned about the distillation process through interactive displays. The tour highlights the unique vapor infusion technique with botanicals sourced from around the globe. Our visit ended with a fun and entertaining tasting session that allowed us to savor the distinct flavors of Bombay Sapphire gin varieties. The experience is enhanced by the stunning setting along the River Test, making it a memorable blend of history, craftsmanship, and sensory exploration for gin enthusiasts and visitors.
While this was a great introduction to the beauty that lies beyond the streets of London, England, it has left a lasting impression that leaves me wanting to explore more of the countryside, especially more of The Pig hotels. They were the perfect place to start our days and end our evenings. I can’t wait to see how the rest of their charming and sophisticated properties stack up!