In the Frame: Hotels in Historic Half-Timbered Buildings

“From elegant mansions to higgledy-piggledy townhouses, there’s just something about the half-timbered style. In the UK we associate them most closely with the Tudor period, but there are half-timbered buildings all over France, Germany and beyond, exuding an olde worlde chocolate-box charm. So, naturally, they make particularly lovely hotel conversions. Combining modern amenities with a quaint feel and original features, here’s our pick of five historic half-timbered hotels in the UK and beyond.

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The Feathers Hotel, Ludlow, UK
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In one of England’s most scenic market towns, the Feathers Hotel in Ludlow, Shropshire combines centuries-old character with contemporary comforts. The building’s former life as a 17th-century coaching inn is visible throughout, from its half-timbered façade to its low-beamed ceilings. You can sleep in four-poster beds, drink real ale on the café terrace, and enjoy hearty, traditional fare in the award-winning restaurant. If you want to explore Ludlow during your stay, there are plenty of quaint shops and historic attractions within walking distance.

Have a look at our hotels in Ludlow page for more options.

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Hotel am Markt, Bacharach, Germany
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Germany is known for its fairy-tale towns filled with half-timbered architecture, and Hotel am Markt is a fine example. Housed in a lovingly restored historic building, the hotel enjoys a prime position in the central market square of the romantic town of Bacharach am Rhein. The rooms are cosy and comfortable – some have balconies overlooking the town square – and there’s a restaurant onsite with outdoor seating on the cobbled streets. Visit and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Middle Rhine Valley, with its hilltop castles and rolling vineyards.

Have a look at our hotels in Bacharach page for more options.

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Hôtel Barriére Le Normandy Deauville, France
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Hôtel Barriére Le Normandy Deauville was designed for those who enjoy the finer things in life. Located in the chic seaside resort of Deauville, this five-star hotel takes traditional Normandy style to a whole new level, with its half-timbered frontage and lavish, individually styled rooms. With first-class facilities, including a full-service spa, tennis courts, an indoor pool, a casino and beach bars, it’s easy to understand why the resort has attracted numerous celebrities over the years, from Winston Churchill to Coco Chanel.

Have a look at our hotels in Deauville page for more options.

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Hotel Reichsk**üchenmeister, Germany
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Mercure Stratford-upon-Avon Shakespeare Hotel, UK**
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No list of half-timbered buildings would be complete without mentioning Stratford-upon-Avon. Best known as the birthplace of Shakespeare, the medieval market town has some of the UK’s best-preserved Tudor architecture. One of the most noteworthy examples is the four-star Mercure Shakespeare Hotel, housed in a 14th-century building that’s every inch the typical image of Tudor England. The hotel still has many of its original period features, including beamed ceilings and stone fireplaces. Popular attractions such as Shakespeare’s birthplace and grave, the Royal Shakespeare Company theatres and the River Avon are just a short stroll away.

Have a look at our hotels in Statford-upon-Avon page for more options.”