Montigo Resorts at Charlton House Verified listing

Forget the stiff, corporate brochure talk. If you’re looking for a spot in Somerset that feels like a warm hug from a very wealthy, very stylish relative, Montigo Resorts at Charlton House is it.

It’s a bit of a local legend—a grand Elizabethan manor tucked away on the edge of Shepton Mallet. It manages to pull off that tricky balancing act of being seriously impressive (think sweeping driveways and manicured lawns) without feeling like you have to whisper in the hallways. Whether you're there for a spa weekend or just a base to explore the West Country, it’s got a soul that most modern hotels can't quite replicate.

Eat
The food here is a bit of a conversation starter because it’s not just your standard "country house" fare. They’ve leaned into their Asian heritage, so while you can definitely get a killer Sunday Roast that’ll have you needing a nap, you can also get authentic Chicken Rice that tastes like it came straight out of a Singaporean kitchen.

The Restaurant: It’s set in this gorgeous, light-filled conservatory. It feels special enough for a celebration but relaxed enough that you don't feel "on show."
Bobo’s Bistro: This is the heart of the hotel for most of the day. It’s cozy, unpretentious, and—crucially—dog-friendly. It’s where you grab a coffee and a sandwich after a long walk.

TIIGO Bar & Grill: If the sun is out, this is the place to be. It’s an al fresco setup in the walled garden with a BBQ vibe. There is something about eating grilled seafood in a Somerset garden with a glass of local cider that just feels right.

Sleep
They only have 28 rooms, which I love because it means the staff actually know who you are. No two rooms are the same; they’ve kept the original quirks of the manor—think creaky (in a good way) floorboards, heavy wood paneling, and some seriously cool Mulberry furniture.

If you’re a bath person, you’re in luck. A lot of the suites have these massive, deep-soak roll-top tubs that are basically calling your name after a day of hiking. The Courtyard Rooms are great if you want a bit more privacy and your own little patio, but honestly, even the standard rooms feel "luxe" rather than "basic." It’s the kind of place where you actually want to spend time in the room rather than just using it to crash.

Retreat
This is where Charlton House really earns its keep. The spa isn't just a tiny room in the basement; it’s a full-on Montigo Wellness sanctuary. It takes a lot of inspiration from Balinese healing, so it feels a world away from the grey British weather outside.

The Spa: You’ve got the hydrotherapy pool (where you can swim from inside to outside), a sauna, and a steam room. But the real "wow" factor is the Pet Spa. If you’re a dog owner, you can actually book your pup in for a treatment while you get a massage. It’s peak "pampered pet" territory, and honestly, we’re here for it.

The Local Vibe: You’re in a prime spot. You can head into Wells to see the Cathedral (which is stunning), or go full "mystical" in Glastonbury. If you’re more into shopping, Kilver Court is right on your doorstep for some designer bargains.

It’s the kind of place where the "to-do" list can be as long or as short as you want. If "Retreat" to you means sitting in a robe for six hours with a book, nobody is going to judge you.