COUNTRY LIFE writers reveal the hotels that stood out to them in 2025

There’s a wonderful informality to this manor house near Paris, designed to celebrate the beauty of the grounds outside and the period details inside

Danielle Bux found the ultimate country escape from her hectic US lifestyle in this 17th-century cottage, which she renovated remotely during the pandemic

Paula Costa and David Rushford put their own stamp on this historic former post office with a considered blend of old and new, and a calm, neutral palette

A twist of fate led André and Lisanne Hedger to realise their dream of owning a chocolate-box thatched cottage in the heart of the countryside – the perfect place to create happy memories with their young family

Will and Sarah Leslie inherited a baronial-style castle in poor repair, and are slowly turning it into a fantasy family home