Number One Bruton Review | Hotels Above Par

"I stayed in a boutique townhouse tucked at the top end of Bruton’s High Street that feels like a Boho shack for the culturally inquisitive — Georgian bones meet a medieval forge and coaching inn, all decked out in whirling colours, retro sixties/seventies lounges and carefully curated knick-knacks. From loungers, wallpaper and doilies to art prints of Joan Collins, Naomi Campbell and Jerry Hall (some by Perry Ogden), mosaic work by Candace Bahouth and fabric key fobs from Bill Amberg, everything feels well thought out and deeply considered. The townhouse opened during the Covid pandemic and now has 12 intimate rooms; if you want timber drama, choose one of the Forge rooms across the courtyard with splintered old beams, large cushy beds, diamond bric-a-brac windows, roll-top baths, walk-in showers in a riot of colour and tempting West Country cheese and crackers. It’s pleasantly set away from the main road so it’s quieter, and apart from a few scuffs on the walls and slightly overpriced amenities, my stay was near perfect. Fast facts I picked up: Location — Bruton, Somerset; Rating — five-star; the vibe — medieval barn meets retro chic; room count — 12; rates start around $350/night; dining — exquisite farm-to-table Somerset produce; amenities — bar, restaurant, boutique; my favourite thing — the warm, exceptionally friendly people; what’s nearby — cute coffee shops, boutiques and galleries in a very walkable village; closest international airport — London Heathrow."