A New Kind of Hotel Experience
In 2011, a fresh take on the boutique hotel was born, though its roots trace back to Hotel du Vin. Launched by hotelier Robin Hutson, that chain redefined hospitality with relaxed style, hearty food, and an emphasis on crisp white linens and comfort. After selling Hotel du Vin, Hutson turned his attention to something new: The Pig.
What started as a single Hampshire property quickly grew into a beloved collection. The idea? A relaxed, homey escape where you could kick off your shoes by the fire, snack on ‘piggy bites,’ grab a pair of wellies for a walk and just unwind. Think rustic charm meets classic English style, with interiors that nod to Petersham Nurseries and Robert Kime.
Food at The Pig broke from hotel dining norms. Instead of formality, guests enjoyed seasonal, sustainable dishes made with ingredients sourced within 25 miles, served in the hotel’s signature garden-to-table conservatory.
Now with 10 properties (and two more on the way), The Pig hasn’t just grown, it has sparked a whole movement blending style, comfort and a laid-back country feel. If you're a fan, here are a few more places that share its spirit.
Thyme, Cotswolds
A 150-acre estate with a manor house, spa, village pub, florist, restaurant, and cookery school. Touted by The Telegraph as “the most romantic hotel in the Cotswolds”. It is difficult to disagree.
Book it.
University Arms, Cambridge
An £80?million-renovated landmark, right in the middle of Cambridge, overlooking the lovely Parker’s Piece green. Offers boutique luxury with bike hire, fragrant interiors and a vibrant Ivy-style restaurant/bar. Grand yet wholly comforting. Book it.
Lime Wood, New Forest
Another jewel in Robin Hutson’s portfolio, featuring Bamford toiletries, Angela Hartnett dining, indoor and outdoor pools with a serious wow factor. A masterclass in contemporary country-house luxury.
Book it.
The Double Red Duke, Oxfordshire
The signature red striped parasols that guests spy as they arrive are jaunty, welcoming and pretty: a good sign and a perfect taster for more of what’s in store inside. Cosy elegance with British tapas-style dishes (apple-glazed bacon ribs, curried crab). Family-friendly rooms, including gorgeous curtained bunk beds for kids. Book it.
Dormy House, Cotswolds
Sitting just above the beautiful Cotswolds village of Broadway is Dormy House, a 38-bed home-from-home in which guests can stay in rooms spread across the main house and the cabins (where the Scandi aesthetic that pervades throughout is even more pronounced). The restaurant is a thing of beauty, with much of the produce hailing straight from the kitchen garden. The swimming pool and spa are, meanwhile, irresistible. Book it.
The Scarlet, Cornwall
An eco-jewel on the rugged northern Cornish coast, The Scarlet is adults-only – and that is just fine by us. While family holidays can be a joy, there is a lot to be said for gazing uninterrupted across Mawgan Porth Beach with a glass of something cold in hand, having just emerged from an outdoor pool which is naturally filtered by reeds. Peace, quiet and a slice of sheer heaven. Book it.
Gilpin Hotel And Lake House, Lake District
Hydrotherapy tubs, saunas, rain-maker showers, steam rooms, plus a Michelin-starred restaurant (HRiSHi). Guests unwind and chill out amid total relaxation in luxurious lakeside cabins. Book it.
