Tucked into the village of Crudwell, The Rectory Hotel is a Georgian manor with just enough irreverence to keep things interesting.
It’s not trying to be a country pile, nor a design hotel, it’s something more personal. Owned by Alex Payne, a former music executive, the property wears its history lightly, favouring warmth and wit over pomp.
Originally built in the early 18th century as the rectory for All Saints’ Church, The Rectory Hotel was designed with an unusually large number of bedrooms to accommodate the rector’s 14 children. Over the years, it’s been home to notable figures including Colonel Rex Osbourne – whose daughter June married Randolph Churchill – and later Mr R.S. Gilbey of the Gilbey gin family, who ran a pedigree Guernsey herd on the grounds. The initials “R.G.” still mark the entrance.
The 18 bedrooms are individually styled, with a mix of petrol-blue walls, cast-iron tubs, and window seats made for daydreaming. There’s no formula here – just thoughtful touches like Bramley toiletries, Roberts radios, and proper mattresses that make a midweek stay feel like a treat. Room 6, with its elegant four-poster and garden views, is a favourite among regulars.
For longer stays or small teams, the stand-alone cottage offers three bedrooms, a wood-burning stove, and a private garden – ideal for off-site planning or a creative reset. It’s a space that feels lived-in, not staged.
Wander the grounds and you’ll find a 13th-century dovecote quietly anchoring the property’s heritage. The outdoor pool is heated year-round, and the gardens offer space for informal meetings, solo reflection, or a brisk walk before breakfast.
The restaurant is a local draw, with a menu that leans urban without losing its sense of place. Seasonal small plates, and a wine list that’s curated but not intimidating. It’s a space where business dinners feel relaxed, and where weekend guests with a glass of bubbles or gin and tonics.
The Rectory attracts a mix of creative professionals, entrepreneurs, and stylish Londoners escaping the city. It’s particularly suited to those who want a break from the corporate mould – whether hosting a low-key client lunch or escaping for a midweek reset.
It isn’t trying to impress – it’s trying to welcome offering the perfect blend of comfort, creativity, and quiet sophistication. Where deals are discussed over sourdough and strategy is shaped beside a roaring fire.