A Luxury English Countryside Journey: The Newt, The Wild Rabbit & Daylesford Organic

The English countryside is a place where time seems to stand still rolling meadows, honey-stone villages, and traditions that stretch back centuries. On a recent inspiration and I explored three destinations that capture the romance and authenticity of this region: The Newt in Somerset, The Wild Rabbit in Kingham, and Daylesford Organic Farm. Each is rooted in history, yet forward-thinking in philosophy offering a glimpse into how the past and present intertwine to shape a more meaningful way of living.

The Newt, Somerset: Heritage Reimagined

The Newt is not just a hotel, but a living piece of history. Set within a Georgian country estate, its story reaches back centuries, when the land was first cultivated for orchards and gardens. Today, under visionary stewardship, The Newt has been reimagined into a modern sanctuary that honours its heritage while embracing innovation.

The estate is home to acres of formal gardens, ancient woodlands, apple orchards, and a cider press that revives traditions from the region’s past. Its spa, restaurants, and glasshouses feel both timeless and contemporary, offering visitors the sense of stepping into a storybook where history and hospitality converge. 

Walking the grounds, I felt the deep rhythm of patience and craft. Just as it takes time for an orchard to bear fruit, so too does it take time to create something lasting in design. For me, The Newt is a reminder that true beauty is not fleeting it’s cultivated with care across generations.

The Wild Rabbit, Kingham: A Modern Inn with Soul

Nestled in the heart of Kingham, The Wild Rabbit carries the spirit of the English inn into the 21st century. Once a traditional coaching inn, it has been thoughtfully restored by the Bamford family (of Daylesford fame) into a Michelin-starred destination where rustic authenticity meets refined dining. 

The building itself still whispers its history stone walls, exposed beams, roaring fireplaces yet the menu tells a new story. Each plate celebrates the land, sourced from nearby fields and Daylesford’s organic farm, combining classic British flavours with modern creativity.

Sitting inside, I felt the soul of the countryside alive around me. The inn doesn’t just serve food; it nurtures connection to the seasons, to the farmers, and to the warmth of a shared table. It reminded me of what I hope Homebodii evokes: garments that carry memory, intimacy, and a sense of belonging, not just fabric and thread.

Daylesford Organic: A Movement in Sustainability

Few places have shaped the modern concept of sustainable luxury quite like Daylesford Organic. Founded over 40 years ago by Carole Bamford, Daylesford began as a working farm determined to return to traditional, chemical-free methods. Today it has grown into one of the UK’s most influential organic farms and lifestyle destinations.

Its history is one of conviction choosing the harder path of organic farming long before it was fashionable, and proving that integrity can lead to excellence. From its farm shop bursting with seasonal produce to its bakery, creamery, natural skincare, and homewares, Daylesford has become a symbol of ethical living without compromise on quality.

As a founder committed to sustainable fabrics such as TENCEL™ and OEKO-TEX certified textiles, I felt deeply aligned with this ethos. Daylesford reminds us that luxury is not indulgence without thought, but beauty with responsibility a philosophy I bring into every Homebodii collection.

Reflections on the Countryside 

Together, The Newt, The Wild Rabbit, and Daylesford paint a portrait of the English countryside that is far richer than postcard images. Each carries history in its foundations, yet has been reimagined with vision for the future.

From The Newt’s Georgian estate reawakening to The Wild Rabbit’s soulful reinvention of the coaching inn, and Daylesford’s pioneering path in organic farming, these destinations embody what I believe luxury should be: connection, integrity, and meaning.

For travellers seeking a romantic countryside escape in England, this journey offers more than rest it offers perspective. True elegance is not just about how something looks, but the story it carries and the values it upholds. 

The English countryside read like a novel written in gardens, kitchens, and stone. One place whispered of patience, another of connection, and another of integrity. Together they reminded me: true luxury is never just seen, it is felt.

The Cotswolds Edit