Hyll Country: Welcome To The Cotswolds

As part of our three-day birthday odyssey in the Cotswolds, we knew we needed a stay that would be as unforgettable as the trip itself. Hyll in Charingworth, nestled just outside Chipping Campden, turned out to be the perfect escape.

From the moment we arrived, we knew we had discovered something truly exceptional. This 17th-century manor house, set amid sixty acres of rolling meadows and woodland, feels like a sanctuary, offering everything we could ever want: warmth, character, and a sense of calm that truly elevated our expectations.

Escape to Hyll
Where every detail is designed for bliss
And as if the surroundings weren’t enough to make it unforgettable, we were lucky enough to be invited to join Hyll’s Supper Club – a chance to enjoy incredible food, delightful conversation, and the most engaging company. Sharing a meal with 11 other like-minded diners, many of whom were also in the publishing world, created the perfect setting for making memories that would last far beyond the evening.

The warmth of Hyll:
A place to feel truly at home
From the moment we set foot on the property, Hyll felt less like a hotel and more like staying in the home of incredibly stylish friends. It’s clear that every inch of this manor, from its Cotswold stone walls to its hand-finished plasterwork, is a labour of love. The atmosphere is effortlessly chic, yet warm and inviting, with no pretence, just genuine hospitality. The staff greeted us like old friends, and that made us feel more like guests at a private estate rather than visitors at a hotel.

The owner, Paul Baker, was a true highlight of our stay. Paul, a former bakery mogul whose brioche brand gained international recognition, has seamlessly transferred his passion for quality into every aspect of Hyll. Throughout the evening, he was the perfect host, sharing fascinating stories from his past business ventures and the journey he and his wife, Lisa, a writer and producer, and the business partners, took to open this stunning property. The evening felt more like a gathering of friends than a formal dinner, and Paul made sure every single guest felt like they were at the heart of the experience.

The Supper Club
A feast for the senses
The Supper Club at Hyll is nothing short of magical. We sat down with eleven other guests, all of whom shared a similar creative spirit and an eagerness to connect – and what followed was an unforgettable evening of culinary delights and spirited conversation. The food was, quite simply, out of this world – each course was a carefully crafted masterpiece that celebrated the very best of local and British produce with a modern, effortless touch. Every bite was better than the last, and the atmosphere made the experience even more special. It wasn’t just about the food (though it was exceptional!); it was about the people we shared it with, the conversations we had, and the connection that formed almost immediately.

Paul, ever the storyteller, regaled us with tales from his bakery days, all while ensuring that everyone felt included and at ease. It wasn’t just a dinner – it was an experience, a conversation, and stories shared among friends.

After the main course, we retreated to one of the hotel’s cosy snugs -complete with record player and a sweet selection of vinyl – to continue the evening. The sense of warmth and camaraderie carried through, and the feeling of being so welcome stayed with us well into the night. We’ve even made plans to meet up with some of the wonderful people we met there – it truly was that kind of evening. We walked away with new friends, fantastic memories, and a full belly, feeling thoroughly pampered.

Hyll
The perfect escape
Aside from the incredible supper experience, Hyll itself is the epitome of relaxation. The hotel’s sixty acres of meadow, woods, and rolling hills are the perfect setting for a digital detox. We found ourselves wandering the grounds, walking slowly and soaking in the beauty of the landscape, which, quite frankly, felt like something out of a fairytale. There’s no rush here. You can leave your phone behind and embrace the slower pace of life, allowing yourself to fully unwind.

The rooms are a retreat in themselves. Our room, decorated in earthy tones with touches of Cotswold charm, was beyond dreamy. The Naturalmat bed was so comfortable, it made getting up in the morning almost impossible. And the linens? To die for. Soft, luxurious, and impeccably chosen. The hotel is also wonderfully dog-friendly, which added to its charm.

Breakfast the next morning was a feast, showcasing locally sourced produce, and it was clear that Hyll is all about quality. Every little detail is thought through, from the Verden toiletries to the curated book selections (thanks to their partnership with a local bookshop). The Borzoi Books in-room reading menu is a lovely touch, and it’s clear that the owners truly want guests to feel like they’re in their home – a place to relax, read, and unwind.

A stay we’ll never forget
Our stay at Hyll was, without a doubt, one of the most memorable parts of our birthday adventure. It wasn’t just a hotel experience – it was an experience in itself, almost spiritual. It was in a word, special. Between the fabulous food, the exceptional company, the relaxed vibe, and the stunning surroundings, Hyll made us feel like we were part of something with synchronicity at its soul. We left feeling completely rejuvenated, with a full heart (and stomach) and new friends to look forward to seeing again.

If you’re looking for the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and warmth – a place where you can truly unwind and disconnect from the world – we can’t recommend Hyll enough. It’s a hidden gem that we’ll cherish for years to come.

Don’t forget to check out their website for details of their Supper Club – you won’t be disappointed!

“The Hyll Supper Club is a fantastic idea, with each instalment spotlighting writers, artists and thinkers. If the first event is anything to go by they are going to prove extremely popular.”

“The food was, quite simply, out of this world – each course was a carefully crafted masterpiece that celebrated the very best of local and British produce with a modern, effortless touch.”