At the Chapel, Bruton, Somerset, UK - Explore & Book
"We’d already planned a lazy weekend lunch at the Chapel, after hearing about it through friends. It sounded great: a restored medieval chapel, with unpretentious food and a laid-back atmosphere. Then they opened 10 gorgeous rooms, too, so we went for the night – and we loved it. The hub of this charming Somerset town, the Chapel buzzes with bonhomie. You enter through heavy wooden doors and feel awed by the building; ahead are 2 enormous windows, a soaring high ceiling, suspended bauble lighting and tall church candles; underneath are wooden tables with calfskin chairs. It is an immaculate restoration – the sense of history is palpable but the look is contemporary, with exquisite furniture handmade by former owner Ahmed. Nowadays it's headed up by a local hotel group – the masterminds behind The Swan Wedmore and a string of other boutique hotels – that's much-loved by i-escapers. Every table was full – a mix of families, couples and friends – and every plate of food looked fresh and delicious. We peeked in the open kitchen, admired the vast wood-fired oven in the on-site bakery, then wandered down to the Clubroom and sunny terrace where priceless original art from a local gallery lines the walls. Everything looked fabulous yet nothing felt intimidating. And every time we've returned since, we've loved it just as much. Highs The 10 rooms, made to hole up in. Original stained-glass windows, White Company linens and robes, and enormous TVs. Plus breakfasts in bed The food: we loved our chargrilled chicken, super-fresh salads and wood-fired pizzas The price range, which offers something for everyone. There's a cheap room and inexpensive dining options, something in between, or you can splurge on fabulous Loft Suite Bruton, with its ancient houses and modern vibe. Just 2 hours from London and well placed for Stourhead, Longleat and Frome Lows Breakfast is home-baked croissants left outside your door (+ homemade jam in your fridge). It allows you to be lazy, but if you’d prefer a cooked option, you’ll need to pay extra Service is pretty relaxed. Adjust your pace accordingly Due to the original 19th century windows being leaded shut, some rooms can get quite warm" - Liz Simpson
