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Tucked away in the gentle hills of England’s smallest county, The Barnsdale offers a true countryside escape. Overlooking the serene expanse of Rutland Water, this boutique retreat effortlessly blends rustic character with a touch of modern sophistication. It’s a place where you can slow down, breathe deeply, and indulge in the quieter side of luxury.
Signature Stays: Thoughtful Design, Effortlessly Comfortable
With 45 individually designed rooms, there’s something here for every kind of guest. Whether you prefer the cosy elegance of the Classic rooms or the refined grandeur of the Fort Henry Suite, each space is a careful balance of bold colours, tactile textures, and timeless British style. The attention to detail is unmistakable — every element, from plush furnishings to curated artwork, invites you to relax and feel right at home.
A Taste of Rutland: Honest Food, Beautifully Served

Dining at The Barnsdale is all about celebrating great food in good company. From a relaxed afternoon tea to a special-occasion dinner, the 1760 Brasserie and the Orangery offer settings that are as charming as they are welcoming. Menus champion the best local ingredients, prepared with care and creativity. It’s the kind of place where meals turn into memories.
The Signet Spa: A Hidden Gem for Recharging

Set within the lush gardens, the newly opened outdoor spa is a tranquil hideaway with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. The Signet Spa is all about gentle indulgence — where nature and nurturing go hand in hand, and every treatment is designed to leave you feeling refreshed and restored.
Soothe, Restore, Unwind
Choose from a thoughtfully curated menu of treatments tailored to your needs:
- Boosted Signet Facial – A radiance-boosting facial created by the spa’s own experts.
- Be Restored Massage – A full-body massage aimed at physical recovery and total relaxation.
- De-Stress Body Ritual – A calming treatment that melts away tension and revives inner calm.
- Mother-To-Be Massage – A gentle, supportive treatment for expectant mothers.
GAIA Rituals: Rooted in Nature
Drawing on ancient wellness practices and GAIA’s natural products, these treatments go beyond the ordinary:
- GAIA Bespoke Massage – Tailored entirely to you, with healing botanicals and intuitive touch.
- GAIA Hot Stone Massage – Warm stones and aromatic oils work in harmony to release stress.
- GAIA Restorative Massage – A detoxifying back ritual with exfoliation and mineral mud for a deep cleanse.
Make a Day of It

Whether it’s a half-day refresh or a full day of indulgence, the spa is set up to help you let go of the everyday.
Highlights include:
- Sauna Pod – Detox and unwind with soothing heat.
- Outdoor Heated Pool – Take in the fresh air while you float under open skies.
- Wood-Fired Hot Tubs – A rustic twist on hydrotherapy, with lovely countryside views.
- Treatment Rooms – Peaceful spaces designed for deep relaxation.
- The Clubhouse – A chic lounge area for post-treatment lounging or pre-spa anticipation.
A Shared Heritage: From Rutland to the River Thames
The Barnsdale is part of The Signet Collection, a unique family of historic hotels with stories to tell. Its sister property, The Mitre at Hampton Court, sits beside the River Thames, just steps from the historic palace. Built in 1665 to host royal guests, it’s every bit as characterful as The Barnsdale.
Both properties have been lovingly brought back to life by Signet Collection founder Hector Ross, whose vision pairs heritage with modern comfort. Each hotel honours its past while offering a fresh, relaxed approach to luxury. Whether you’re staying by the water in Rutland or beside royal grounds in Hampton Court, you’ll find the same warm welcome and eye for detail.
Explore Rutland: England’s Best-Kept Secret

When you’re ready to venture beyond the hotel, Rutland is brimming with charm. Cycle the scenic routes around Rutland Water, spot rare birds in peaceful reserves, or spend the afternoon wandering through picture-perfect market towns. The Barnsdale’s concierge team is always happy to help you craft a tailor-made itinerary, whether you want a heritage tour or a countryside picnic.
Where Rustic Charm Meets Modern Comfort
The Barnsdale captures the best of both worlds: the warmth of a countryside inn with the polish of a boutique hotel. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just in need of a little time out, this retreat offers a genuinely lovely mix of comfort, character, and quiet luxury.
Location: The Barnsdale, The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8AH