Roomer

BABINGTON HOUSE

Somerset, United Kingdom
$450-850/ night

Book this if You want the ultimate 'posh wellies' countryside escape where the crowd is as curated as the cocktail list.

Why People Love It

  • The original Cowshed Spa with its rustic-luxe treatment rooms
  • Heated indoor-outdoor infinity pool that stays open year-round
  • Legendary Sunday roasts in The Orangery overlooking the grounds

Quick Take: It’s a private members' club first and a hotel second, so expect to pay a premium for the privilege of rubbing shoulders with London's media elite.

Reviewed by @ginagoesto: I felt like I stepped into a period drama here. The gardens are immaculate and having lunch on the terrace with that countryside view was the highlight of my summer. It’s the perfect escape from the city noise.

Guest Who Stayed Here Said

The hype

The service is relaxed but attentive (no uniforms), and the grounds are absolutely stunning.

Reality check

The Main House rooms can be noisy due to the bar below and creaky floorboards; if you want silence, book an outbuilding.

  • You appreciate 'shabby chic' done with an unlimited budget
  • You want a hotel where you can wear muddy boots and a silk dress in the same day
  • You are a foodie who loves farm-to-table dining (literally from the Walled Garden)

Cleanliness & Maintenance

8.5
  • Housekeeping: Generally excellent, with twice-daily service (turndown included).
  • Bathroom hygiene: Immaculate. Bathrooms are a highlight with huge tubs and endless Cowshed products.
  • Maintenance: Mostly good, though some 'rustic' charm can mean creaky doors or worn fabrics.
  • Linens & towels: High quality, fluffy robes and crisp sheets.
  • Odors & scents: Smells amazing—signature Cowshed essential oils everywhere.

Sleepability™

7.5SILENT
SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
  • Bar noise for rooms directly above
  • Creaky historic floorboards in the Main House
  • Wedding parties if you are staying during an event

Before you book

Good to know

  • Check-in is 3pm, Check-out is 12pm
  • Valet parking is often complimentary/included
  • You can hire bikes and wellies for free to explore the grounds

What to pack

  • Hunter wellies (or borrow theirs)
  • Swimsuit for the year-round heated outdoor pool
  • Smart-casual dinner outfits (no suits, but look sharp)

Room Genie

Best picks

  • Coach House rooms for split-level space and quiet
  • The Playroom (Main House) for a massive freestanding tub and bar (if you don't mind some noise)
  • Stable Block for families (bunk beds available)

Rooms to avoid

  • Attic rooms in the Main House if you are tall (sloping ceilings)
  • Main House rooms directly above the bar if you are a light sleeper

Room Request Genie – copy & paste

“I'd love to request a quiet room in the Coach House or Stable Block, away from the main bar area. If possible, a split-level layout would be fantastic.”

FAQ & Hidden tips

Everything you actually want to know before you book.

Can non-members book?

Yes, but you pay a higher 'public rate' and may need to add a Soho Friends membership (£100) for access.

Is it dog friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome in the Stable Block, Lodge, and ground-floor Coach House rooms (often free of charge).

Is breakfast included?

No, it is a la carte and can be expensive (£15-20+ per person).

Are kids allowed?

Yes, but they have restricted swim times and aren't allowed in the main restaurant (The Orangery) after 7pm.

Is there a service charge?

Yes, expect a discretionary 14.5% service charge added to all food and drink bills.

What is the best way to get there?

Drive (free parking) or take a train to Bath Spa (30 mins away) or Frome (15 mins away) and taxi.

Insider Tips

  • ✨

    Complimentary afternoon tea with cake is served daily at 3pm in the Deli Bar—don't miss it.

  • ✨

    Guests get free screenings in the 45-seat cinema; check the schedule at reception.

  • ✨

    You can buy the full-size Cowshed products in your bathroom to take home (or order them online later).

5 things to know before you go

  • 💡The 'shabby chic' furniture is sometimes actually just shabby (worn velvet, scratched wood).

  • 💡The Main House floorboards are incredibly loud; you will hear your neighbors walking.

  • 💡Room service is available but can be slow during peak dinner times.

  • 💡The 'Walled Garden' isn't just for show; you'll likely eat vegetables picked from it that morning.

  • 💡You might spot a celebrity, but the unwritten rule is you must pretend not to notice.

Local Playbook

Map

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