The Credentials
Set high above the hills of the Cotswolds, Dormy House feels like a reimagined country escape. Part of the impressive Farncombe Estate, its roots trace back to a 17th-century farmhouse, now transformed into a stylish retreat where traditional farmhouse chic meets modern decor: think Tudor fireplaces and panelling against botanical motifs, soft, muted tones and Laura Ashley-friendly furnishings.
Sleep
The rooms also strike a balance between heritage and indulgence. We stayed in The Attic, where the bedroom features painted original oak beams, minimalist furniture and a soothing palette, and a separate living space with a velvet sofa, cosy TV set-up and a generous selection of magazines and coffee table books to open up the space. The bathroom is slightly more theatrical yet still quaint, with twin showers and a deep marble tub overlooking countryside views to the front of the building.
Thoughtful touches can be found everywhere: we found complimentary drinks (including a local beer and a not-entirely-guilt-free vodka cocktail), Montezuma’s treats alongside the coffee machine, and a generous selection of upmarket snacks to see us through the visit.
Downstairs, endless intimate nooks surround The House Bar, making it easy to settle in at any time of day. The Blue Room, stocked with toys, adds a family-friendly space, while the bar itself offers freshly baked brownies and cookies by day, and an extensive drinks list by night.
Dine
The restaurant, The Back Garden, overlooks a sunny terrace and a kitchen garden, complete with a pagoda at the end. The interiors mirror the rest of the hotel: far from minimal, but carefully curated, with large succulents, geometric shapes and feminine patterns. At night, oversized lanterns illuminate the garden through the French windows.
The food is where the hotel truly excels. The menu champions locally sourced British ingredients, including a detailed map of suppliers from neighbouring counties.
To start, we order a Snowdonia beechwood cheddar cheese soufflé. The powerful taste of cheddar is beautifully offset by its light, fluffy mouthfeel. We also order the Konro grilled prawns, which arrive as a smoked stack, topped with a delicious curry-style sauce.
For mains, I can’t help myself and opt for yet another indulgent dish, a Wiltshire truffle tagliatelle with hen-of-the-woods – a mushroom (should I say the mushroom) that my husband prides himself on being able to forage. I have to try it from a professional chef and I am not disappointed. The hen-of-the-woods is an instant hit, and there is no scrimping on the truffle either; the ever-present aroma worked perfectly with the beautifully crafted pasta.
Alongside it, the Home Farm braised lamb – a beautiful terrine-esque dish of crusted lamb with broad beans and rich tomatoes – is a definite choice for those who favour the meatier option.
We are pretty full by the time dessert comes around, but there is, as they say, always room somewhere. We try the lemon tart, which I almost mistake for a lemon crème brûlée, as it comes with a caramelised top and a serving of crème fraîche. The caramel and cream flavours are a perfect complement for an incredibly fresh lemon filling. My husband is a huge fan of the bread and butter pudding with rum and raisin ice cream. I find bread and butter pudding quite filling, but this one is light, sweet, and crispy, with a full flavour. We are even tempted into the dessert wine: a complex Austrian pour crafted from grapes shaped by a foggy climate, offering an almost otherworldly sweetness reminiscent of orange wine, and, according to staff, a particular house favourite.
Even breakfast (often feeling like an afterthought elsewhere) is thoughtfully done. A pristine Full English is available for meat eaters, vegans or vegetarians, alongside other cooked dishes (including fish and eggs any way). There is also a small but carefully selected spread of meats, cheeses, and pastries. Healthier choices are also in the mix, including freshly made smoothies, porridge made to order, protein balls, and possibly the best chia pudding I’ve ever had.
The Spa
The spa is extensive without feeling overwhelming, and thoughtfully designed.
A fully kitted gym includes boxing facilities, chilled towels, and Apple Watch-connected screens on each machine.
The spa itself is small, but with everything you’d need. There’s a playful thermal suite with sauna, steam room, and snow room, an indoor infinity pool, and an outdoor hydropool set against a contemporary fire feature. The changing rooms are stocked with more thoughtful touches, from vanity kits and shower caps to cleansers, toners, and moisturisers neatly arranged by the hairdryers.
Out & About
The hotel is part of the wider Farncombe Estate. There are limitless activities for whatever suits your tastes: from country walks to exploring local villages, to more adventurous activities like archery, falconry and axe throwing.
Who Goes There?
Couples of all ages, from millennials to older guests, dominate the scene. It’s something of a romantic getaway – ideal for those looking to escape to the countryside without losing any home comforts.
The Best Thing
This is a hotel that understands its identity. It’s the Cotswolds at its best. If Soho House were reimagined with a softer, more feminine vibe, this might be the result. Officially a four-star property, it delivers a five-star experience where it matters.
The Worst Thing
My husband, a full 6ft4, had to be careful with the beams in our room, The Attic (the clue is in the name). But this is a hazard of being tall and having a penchant for old buildings, which he absolutely does.
The Details
Room prices at Dormy House differ slightly by season, starting at £465 per night
