The Newt

Bruton, UK

• No.37 The World's 50 Best Hotels 2023
• Best Boutique Hotel Award 2023

When South African hotelier Koos Bekker and former Elle Decoration South Africa editor Karen Roos purchased 17th-century Hadspen House in 2013, they had a vision to create a bucolic hotel wonderland in South West England. Six years of delicate renovation later, that vision came to life in The Newt, which takes its name from the large population of great crested salamanders that were discovered to inhabit the estate. The Newt comprises hundreds of acres of rural Somerset land but houses just 43 rooms, split across the original Grade-II listed house and the renovated farmyard buildings. This lower capacity allows the hotel to excel at creating bespoke itineraries of country escapades, curated to each guest’s taste. From cider press visits to willow basket weaving and touring the gardens, immaculately redesigned by Patrice Taravella, the breadth of activities on offer is boundless. Just want to relax? Not a problem. The reconstructed Villa Ventorum, unearthed during the property’s renovation, offers an extraordinary journey into classical Roman history, with its adjacent state-of-the-art wellness centre inspired by the original bath available for a soothing retreat. For a bite to eat, the estate offers three restaurants, serving fresh, seasonal garden dishes with a wine list heavy on South African bins.

Key Information

• Rooms: 40
• Starting Rate: $1000
• High Season: March-September
• Dining: The Botanical Rooms
• Drinking: Hadspen Bar
• At the Hotel: Swimming pool(s), Spa/wellness centre, Fitness centre, Family friendly, Museums and permanent exhibits
• 4401963577777
• Visit The Newt's Website

Location

A359, Hadspen, Bruton, BA7 7NG