Mother's Day Gift Guide 2025: Best English And Scottish Escapes

Forbes

07-05-2025

When Mother's Day calls for something beyond the usual flowers and chocolates, nothing beats a trip away to the enchanting British countryside. Think cozy manor houses, thermal spas and farm-to-table restaurants — all against a backdrop perfectly designed for quality bonding time.
Part working farm and part luxury hotel and spa, the Newt transforms a historic Georgian estate into a contemporary countryside escape that combines classic flair with modern amenities. Tucked between the market towns of Bruton and Castle Cary, the country estate offers just 23 uniquely styled suites across the main house and converted stable yard, and centers around its spectacular gardens, including a walled parabola with apple trees that supply the estate's own cider press.
Pro tip: Book your stay and plan your activities in advance. There is so much to explore and experience at the Newt — the exquisite spa (housed in a converted cow barn) offers indulgent treatments inspired by the surrounding landscape, the garden-to-table restaurants never disappoint with menus that change every season, and activities like beekeeping and woodland walks allow guests to enjoy every aspect of Somerset's agricultural heritage with a touch of well-manicured sophistication.
Courtesy of the Newt
Renowned for its glamorous gatherings and high profile occasions, Gleneagles also drew the fashion crowd last summer, housing the guests of Dior when the maison held their Cruise 2025 show in Scotland (first show in Scotland since 1995). Quite the hotel, spa and golfing destination, the landmark estate is synonymous to heritage, luxury and grandeur — and top of the must-visit destinations when it comes to Scotland.
Pro tip: although the hotel promotes a comfortable and informal atmosphere in general, make sure to pack a dress or two if you plan to sample the gorgeous afternoon tea, where a smart casual dress code is advised.
The Royal Lochnagar Suite at the Gleneagles Courtesy of Gleneagles Saltmoore, Whitby, England
Stylishly perched between the wild North York Moors and the salty sea breeze, Saltmore is the perfect countryside destination you've been dreaming about — but probably couldn't quite picture until now. Encompassing two brand new hotels and 72 bedrooms in total, the sanctuary that is Saltmoor comes with a heated indoor poor (what British weather?), a state-of-the-art spa with treatment journeys by Wildsmith Skin, a gym complete with biohacking options, and an array of dining offering that spans two bars and four venues.
Pro tip: for those looking to treat their mother, book The Nest Suite, a tranquil hideaway complete with reading nook in the original 19th century hall overlooking the orchard from its top-floor vantage point.
The rooms at Saltmoore features classic designs in soft hues Courtesy of Saltmoore Cowley Manor Experimental, The Cotswolds, England
Charming with lush fields and unique architectural features, Cowley Manor Experinmental pretty much sums up the perfect English countryside destination in the Cotswolds. Spread across 55 acres of stunning grounds (think natural lakes, Victorian cascades and woodlands that have long rumored to have inspired Alice in Wonderland), guests can expect a harmonious blend of historic charm and playful sophistication in all of the estate's 36 rooms.
Pro tip: for a countryside Mother's Day escape with style and soul, bond over craft cocktails at the Experimental Cocktail Club, sample Jackson Boxer's locally-sourced gastronomy offerings with a French twist, or simply relax in the award-winning C-Side Spa — complete with indoor and outdoor pools, sauna, steam room and fitness center.
Room at Cowley Manor Experimental, The Cotswolds, England Courtesy of Cowley Manor Experimental Schloss Roxburghe, Kelso, Scotland
For a proper Scottish getaway, look no further than Schloss Roxburghe. Once the Duke of Roxburghe's private residence, the hotel is close to the Scottish Borders and just a quick hop from both Edinburgh and Newcastle (about an hour's drive). An expansion completed in November 2022 saw the opening of the new Estate House, extensive spa facilities as well as a number of self-catering cottages across the grounds.
Pro tip: the estate — with over 300 acres of land and 2.5 miles of the River Teviot — is perfect for those who don't like to sit still: fill your day with a round of golf on the Championship Course, fly fishing on the river or Trout Loch, or clay pigeon shooting at the newly refurbished Shooting Center.
The exterior of Schloss Roxburghe, Kelso, Scotland Courtesy of SCHLOSS Roxburghe