Where
Set within 18 acres of manicured gardens, lakes and woodland, Babington House sits just 30 minutes from Bath and 15 minutes from Frome. This serene country estate feels both secluded and sociable – not so sprawling that it feels daunting, but just grand enough to feel like you’re staying somewhere just a bit special. With it’s own chapel in the grounds, and surrounded by rolling Somerset countryside, you really do feel like you’re in a fully immersive Soho House bubble; it’s got the relaxed countryside feel, yet that undercurrent of cool that gives it that unmistakable buzz. The relaxed, welcoming staff set the tone; no stuffy concierge or fine dining, just an instant feeling like you can settle in and switch off.
What
Originally opened in 1998 as Soho House’s first rural outpost, the manor and its outbuildings now offer 33 individually designed bedrooms across the grand Main House, characterful Coach House and Stable Block, as well as the secluded Walled Garden, Cabin and Lodge. Interiors are a tactile delight - hand-painted wallpapers, velvet sofas, oak floors, four poster beds, generously stocked in-room bars and luxe Hypnos mattresses beneath jewel-tone hues. Bathrooms feature roll-top tubs, walk-in rain-showers with Lefroy Brooks fittings, and full Cowshed and Soho Skin spa amenities.
Eat
The sunlit Orangery restaurant serves seasonally driven, garden-to-table fare sourced locally. Think Somerset lamb with peas and bacon, Devon crab as well as nutritionally-minded salads and smoothies for the wellness crowd. Don’t miss anything from the wood-fired grill, the pizzas are Naples-worthy.
Do
Babington is packed with opportunities to do as little, or as much as you want - for both body and soul. Dip into the indoor/outdoor pool (or simply people watch on the iconic striped day beds); steam and sauna inside, then slink off to the original Cowshed spa for a deep-tissue massage that will render you on cloud-nine. Looking for some creative inspiration? Cosy up in the library, book in for a cinema screening or look out for live music events through the summer months.
The Crowd
Think Soho-style country chic: creatives, members, boho families with pampered dogs and baby mooning couples. The vibe is distinctly laid-back yet stylish - with vintage cocktails in the bar under polished crystal lamps by night, and a game of padel on the court to sweat it out the next morning, it’s all about balance.
Insider Tips
Book in on a Sunday and join the House Cricket team for a match, May-September.
Book a Coach House room if you want to bring your four-legged friend.
Pack a mix of outdoorsy/spa outfits and something slinky to accompany those cocktails come golden hour.
The Verdict
Babington House remains the epitome of country-house hospitality - balanced, unpretentious, and fully Soho-infused. It effortlessly fuses cosy Georgian grandeur with modern luxury, creative energy and wellness, making it the ultimate rural escape for discerning travellers (with or without children). A retreat that feels both exclusive and inviting - just as a true home-from-home should.
