Waterhouse Bed & Breakfast

The Waterhouse is situated in a stone country house originally built as a family home in 1632. In 2009, the property was restored with a more contemporary look and refurbished original features. The result is a hybrid of modern-boutique flair and country-house charm. In the lobby, blue green walls are paired with a wood floor, upholstered armchairs, and country-style furniture in white and cream. The library lounge is charming with an ornate marble fireplace, gray accent walls, a brown leather couch, and brass chandelier lighting. Paintings by local artists adorn the walls, and there's even a little rugby memorabilia here and there. Guests should note that all of the guest rooms are situated in a slightly more impersonal modern annex attached to the historic building (a detail often left out of frame in promotional pictures). Waterhouse is popular among couples, but connecting rooms can be ideal for families or groups, and the whole 13-room annex can be rented out as a unit for functions like business meetings or bachelorette parties.

Waterhouse is located in a picturesque valley near Midford Brook. Situated along a long, private drive, the property is peacefully secluded from the main road, but is still accessible to regional destinations. The heart of Bath is a 10- to 15-minute drive. Outdoor adventures are close and easy to arrange, including biking and fishing. It's a six-minute drive to University of Bath, a 12-minute drive to Prior Park Landscape Garden, and a 15-minute drive to The Roman Baths. Stonehenge and Bristol International Airport can both be reached in about 45 minutes. London is a two- to three-hour drive, depending on traffic. Since the hotel is a little outside of the city, a car is almost necessary unless guests want to rely on public buses or taxis. Parking is free on-site. 

The hotel's 13 rooms are situated in a modern extension of the historic house. The rooms include nine Double/Twin Rooms (one Double is smaller than the others, but is advertised as such) and four Deluxe Rooms with king beds (interconnecting rooms are also available). Compared to the historic parts of the hotel, the rooms can feel slightly impersonal with mostly neutral colors and contemporary furniture, but they're still tastefully sophisticated, clean, and comfortable. The contemporary decor varies from room to room. A Standard Double, for example, might have beige carpeting, cream-colored walls, and a dark damask accent wall. Furniture is dark wood and tasseled drapes add a luxury vibe. Upgraded rooms might feature a glass chandelier and a small table with Louis XVI dining chairs. Rooms have modern amenities like flat-screen TVs with freeview, free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee service, and mini-fridges with fresh milk. Irons and ironing boards are provided. Most rooms have views of the garden or countryside. The entire annex of 13 rooms can also be rented out as a complete unit. Beige bathrooms include white fixtures and many have standing showers or shower/tub combos. Duck Island toiletries and hairdryers are provided.

In addition to the reception area, the hotel has a library lounge, a tiny bar with local beer and wine, a conference room, a modern dining area, and three acres of outdoor space (including a small terrace with seating). Guests who rent the entire annex can take advantage of a commercial kitchen. The hotel offers a daily breakfast with standard continental and cooked-to-order options, though both cost an extra fee. Like breakfast, evening meals are available for an extra fee and are only served at exact hours. Room service is available during limited hours. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.