Greenway Hotel and Spa – A Cotswold Hideaway with Heart and Heritage

There’s something undeniably comforting about arriving at Greenway Hotel and Spa. Perhaps it’s the long tree-lined drive, the honey-hued stone of the 16th-century manor house, or the hush of the surrounding gardens that tells you you’ve landed somewhere special. Just outside Cheltenham, this country house hotel is small enough to feel intimate (with only 21 rooms) yet grand enough to feel like you’re stepping into another, slower-paced world – one where phones are left in bags, shoulders drop, and time slows down.

Whether you’re slipping away for a romantic weekend, a girls’ spa break, or simply need a change of scene, Greenway delivers that rare mix of charm, comfort and authentic hospitality. It’s the kind of place I fall for – full of personality, history, thoughtful details and unobtrusive service.

Rooms With Soul (and Temple Spa Products)

Each of the 21 rooms is a masterclass in understated luxury. Expect a blend of original features – wooden beams, old fireplaces, leaded windows – with soft, stylish touches: thick curtains, velvet cushions, king-size beds and a soothing palette that calms the senses. The bathrooms are smart and sparkling, with walk-in showers, rolltop baths in some, and a generous supply of Temple Spa products (tick!). You’ll find robes and slippers in the wardrobe, and yes – flannels in the bathroom, which, as you’ll know, is always a green flag in my book.

A few rooms overlook the gardens, while others give you sweeping views of those iconic Cotswold hills. If you’re booking a romantic escape, ask for Willow. With its dreamy countryside views, rolltop bath and walk-in shower for two, it’s utterly spoiling.

Food That Feels Like a Treat (and Yes, the Pudding is Worth It)

Dining at Greenway is a real highlight – elegant but never formal, refined but not fussy. The wood-panelled restaurant sets the scene: white tablecloths, flickering candles, and an air of quiet indulgence. The menu changes with the seasons and champions the very best of local produce. Expect beautifully cooked classics with a modern twist – think Cotswold lamb with wild garlic, pan-fried trout with heritage carrots, and silky butternut squash risotto.

But let’s talk about the pudding. Their sticky toffee comes with homemade honeycomb and a cloud of clotted cream – and it’s not an exaggeration to say it’s one of the best I’ve ever had. Light, rich, and ridiculously moreish. If you’re just passing through, it’s worth stopping in for lunch or Afternoon Tea.

The Spa – Small But Mighty

The Elan Spa might not be vast, but it’s beautifully done and deeply relaxing. There’s a hydrotherapy pool for easing tired limbs, a steam room, sauna, outdoor hot tub and a well-equipped gym for the energetic (I confess I skipped that part). The treatment menu is powered by Temple Spa – a brand I love for its holistic approach and gorgeously scented products. Treatments range from targeted facials and deep-tissue massages to sleep rituals and body wraps.

If you're coming for a weekend, I’d recommend booking your treatment ahead of time – it’s a popular spot, and the therapists are in demand. And afterwards, curl up in the relaxation lounge with a herbal tea and forget what day it is.

Location: Classic Cotswolds on Your Doorstep

Greenway’s location is ideal – peaceful, rural and utterly scenic, yet just a ten-minute drive from Cheltenham. If you’re craving a bit of town time, Cheltenham is full of independent shops, wine bars and that famous regency architecture. Head out further and you’re spoilt for pretty villages: Broadway, Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Bourton-on-the-Water all make for dreamy day trips.

There are excellent walking trails too, whether you fancy a gentle garden stroll or something more robust. Ask the hotel team for their favourite local routes – they’re brilliant with recommendations.

Why I Loved It

Greenway Hotel and Spa is what a country house hotel should be – warm, inviting and quietly luxurious. There’s no pomp or pretence, just lovely service, timeless interiors and a sense that the team genuinely care. It’s ideal for a proper switch-off – the kind of place you want to return to every season.

It’s not about flashy design or show-off features. It’s about relaxed comfort, thoughtful touches and an atmosphere that feels both special and familiar. A glass of English sparkling wine in the drawing room, the scent of lavender in the gardens, the quiet hum of the countryside around you.

Reviewed: January 2025