Travel Back in Time: 10 Hotels Steeped in History Across the UK and Europe
Discover 10 unique places to stay across the UK and Europe, where history comes alive, from Tudor manors to 1960s-themed hotels.
Exploring is more than just travelling to new cities; it’s about experiencing travelling to new historical eras. History is preserved at a number of guesthouses and hotels throughout the UK and Europe. From a 1960s period Swinging Czech hotel, a Wales Tudor manor to a reconstructed Sicilian palazzo, every stop takes you to a historical timeframe and creates one of a kind travel experience.
Robert Browning’s Florence Apartment, Italy
In the heart of Florence, Casa Guidi offers an immersive experience for history buffs, especially literary enthusiasts. This 15th-century apartment became home to poets Elizabeth and Robert Browning in 1847, and it has since been preserved with great attention to detail. The space is carefully restored to resemble their life in the mid-1800s, with period furnishings and art collected by the couple during their travels. Staying here allows you to live like a poet in a city that has long been a beacon of culture and creativity.
An Interwar Hotel in Kraków, Poland
For a taste of 20th-century elegance, the Puro Hotel in Kraków takes inspiration from the vibrant cafes and restaurants of the interwar period. After a renovation in 2021, this hotel captures the essence of pre-World War II Kraków with retro design elements, including Bauhaus-inspired furniture and vintage radios in each room. Guests can enjoy the atmosphere of a bygone era while soaking in the lively charm of Kraków’s historic Old Town.
A 1970s Hotel in Skövde, Sweden
Billengehus, perched atop a hill in western Sweden, is a living testament to the bold and funky style of the 1970s. Originally opened in 1970, the hotel offers a nostalgic dive into the era with its preserved décor featuring brown velvet, leather chairs, and even a few disco balls for that authentic ‘70s vibe. Guests can enjoy modern amenities while surrounded by the vintage style of an unforgettable decade.
A Medieval Palazzo in Sicily
If you want to immerse yourself in centuries of Sicilian history, Palazzo Previtera in Linguaglossa, near Mount Etna, is a must-visit. Built in 1649, this palazzo is now a museum and guesthouse where each room tells a different chapter of history. The property still boasts original antique furniture, painted ceilings, and a library of rare books, including works by Thomas Aquinas and John Milton. Guests can enjoy guided tours hosted by the Previtera family, making it an intimate and educational stay.
A Swinging ‘60s Hotel in Prague, Czech Republic
For a truly retro experience, the Vintage Design Sax Hotel in Prague is a throwback to the colorful, avant-garde era of the 1960s. The hotel’s design is inspired by iconic designers such as Eero Saarinen and Charles Eames, with its psychedelic wallpapers and mid-century modern furnishings. Staying here is like stepping into a world of swinging music, pop culture, and the bold color schemes that defined the era.
Georgian Cottages at Beamish Museum, County Durham, UK
Located just outside Newcastle, Beamish Museum offers two restored Georgian cottages—Potter’s Cottage and Drover’s Rest—that transport visitors to the 19th century. These period homes are fully furnished with period furniture, stone floors, and open fires, giving guests the authentic feel of Georgian life. Staying here provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the past, with full access to the museum and its living history exhibits.
Tudor Manor in Wales
Wales is home to some of the most well-preserved Tudor manors, with buildings that have seen centuries of history unfold. One standout is a manor house nestled in the countryside, offering guests the chance to stay in a grand home from the 16th century. With its timber beams, grand fireplaces, and antique furniture, a stay here feels like stepping back into a time of kings, queens, and knights.
A Victorian House in London
London’s Victorian houses offer a rich historical ambiance for travelers who love the charm of the 1800s. Many of these houses have been converted into boutique hotels, retaining their original architectural features such as high ceilings, wood paneling, and elegant furnishings. Guests can live like Londoners from the Victorian era while being steps away from the vibrant life of the city.
An 18th-Century Castle in Bavaria, Germany
Bavaria is known for its grand castles, and some have been transformed into luxurious hotels. These castles, with their imposing stone walls and antique décor, give you a taste of the life of nobility. Staying in one of these historic buildings offers a unique blend of historical authenticity and modern comfort.
A 1920s Art Deco Hotel in Paris, France
Paris, with its rich cultural history, is home to some beautiful 1920s Art Deco hotels that offer an opulent look at the Roaring Twenties. With sleek geometric lines, luxurious velvet, and glamorous fixtures, these hotels harken back to a time of jazz, flappers, and artistic revolution. A stay here is a great way to experience the grandeur of 1920s Paris.
Step Back in Time to Experience History Through Accommodation
From historic manors to mid-century modern hotels to century-old palazzos, these accommodations in the UK and Europe are fascinating in their own right. Each room has a story to tell, and history can be felt in every single corner. Experiencing these lodgings is not just about enjoying desirability, it’s about indulging in luxury-some history.
These destinations are more than just a place to crash, it’s a chance to experience history, so hop along and prepare for an unforgettable trip.
The post Travel Back in Time: 10 Hotels Steeped in History Across the UK and Europe appeared first on Travel and Tour World
Comments and Responses
Please login. Only community members can comment.