Woolley Grange, a stunning 17th-century Jacobean manor house nestled in the rolling Wiltshire countryside near Bath, combines elegant interiors, warm log fires, and a contemporary spa to create a uniquely family-friendly luxury escape.
Originally built in 1665 for Francis Randolph, this historic estate later became home to the Baskerville family, inspiring Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous novel. During World War II, it served as an antenatal centre for evacuees, then housed one of Britain’s first NHS ambulance stations. In 1988, London accountant Nigel Chapman transformed the property into an upscale hotel focused on families, launching the first of what would become the Luxury Family Hotels collection.
Following a major six-month renovation completed last year by StudioJill—renowned for their work on Cornwall’s Fowey Hall and Dorset’s Moonfleet Manor—Woolley Grange now showcases modern style while honoring its rich heritage.
The hotel offers 25 beautifully refurbished rooms and suites, ranging from intimate doubles to spacious family accommodations in the outbuildings. Interiors combine plush furnishings with period features, offering comfort without formality. Deluxe rooms feature king-sized beds, luxurious bathrobes, mini fridges, and garden views, providing a welcoming retreat for all.
Children are lavishly catered for with a variety of engaging activities. Younger guests can explore a whimsical fairy garden or play outside on the zipline, while families enjoy the heated indoor pool, cinema room, and vibrant library. The Four Bears Den, an Ofsted-registered children’s club for ages three months to eight years, offers complimentary sessions that give parents the chance to relax worry-free. Older kids have exclusive access to the Hen House, equipped with a pool table and gaming consoles such as PS5 and Nintendo Switch.
Dining at Woolley Grange is equally inviting. Three child-friendly venues include the casual Orangery, a traditional dining room, and a dog-friendly area featuring a ‘Waggy Tails’ afternoon tea for four-legged guests. The menu boasts family favourites like fish and chips, ribeye steak, pan-fried sea trout, and chicken souvlaki with Greek salad, complemented by a curated wine list with alcohol-free options. For adults seeking solitude, video-monitored child care and an adults-only dining option are available.
The on-site spa offers a tranquil environment with a walled garden view, two new treatment rooms, an outdoor hot tub, a fresh sauna, and the 12-metre heated pool. Both adults and children can enjoy tailored spa treatments like hot stone massages and rejuvenating facials, with adults-only swim sessions held during term time.
Just a brief stroll away lies the picturesque town of Bradford-on-Avon, where visitors can explore charming tearooms, independent shops, cosy cafes, upmarket pubs, and a dedicated cheese shop, further enhancing the Woolley Grange experience.
Offering the perfect blend of heritage, luxury, and family-friendly amenities, Woolley Grange stands as one of the UK’s finest escapes for parents and children alike.