Set on a prominent corner of Bruton’s main thoroughfare, Number One Bruton brings together everything that’s so great about this popular Somerset town: culture, food and history. Since opening in 2020, this lovingly-restored, eccentric Georgian townhouse has been a hub for down-from-Londons wanting to enjoy Bruton’s foodie hotspots.
The term ‘boutique hotel’ feels like it was created to describe Number One: there are only 12 rooms here, and each is entirely different. Step through the canary-yellow door of the main house, head up the hand-painted spiral staircase and you’ll find five cheerful, colourful spaces, each with dramatic beams, original fireplaces, antiquities, artworks and playful architectural flurries. Out the back, there are seven other more sedately decorated rooms – some in dog-friendly cottages, others in a converted twelfth-century forge.
We stayed in one of the townhouse rooms, which felt slightly like sleeping in a (very cool) museum with its ornate, carved wooden bed, clashing floral patterns, and an old bell on the wall that probably once called for ‘the staff’. But there was nothing stuffy about the experience: the bed linen was crisp and delightfully comfy, the roll-top bath a joy, and all the natural handmade toiletries – including a DIY floral facemask – a nice extra treat.
In fact, there were thoughtful touches throughout. There’s a welcome pack of local cheddar, cider and apple juice and homemade shortbread, and staff couldn’t have been more helpful as we requested various children’s bits and bobs.
The food was also great. When the hotel opened, the restaurant was Osip: a high-end spot with a formal set menu that’s now moved out. In 2024, chef Sam Lomas (who you might recognise from Great British Menu) took over and opened Briar: a more relaxed restaurant serving small-to-medium plates with a heavy Somerset influence. That means Westcombe Cheddar gougères and braised beef (this is cow country), and dinner bookended with a cider aperitif and an apple cake – both impeccable. The breakfast also deserves a special mention, with oversized croissants from The Newt, soft-boiled eggs to order, soft indie tunes and sunlight slanting in the shopfront window. It’s a dreamy way to start a day exploring this upmarket corner of Somerset.
Nearby
Despite being very small, there’s a surprising amount to see and eat in Bruton. For a casual brunch or pizza, head to At the Chapel a few doors down. Other great foodie options include The Old Pharmacy and, a taxi ride away, the Botanical Rooms at The Newt. While you’re here, it’s also worth visiting Hauser & Wirth, which has a lovely garden, farm shop and restaurant alongside the art. If you’re staying a few days, be sure to book a table at The Three Horseshoes in nearby Batcombe. This delightful country pub has a restaurant helmed by Rochelle Canteen's Margot Henderson, and the food is next-level.
Time Out tip
If you’re getting the train from London, despite being very small, there is a station in Bruton a few minutes walk away with direct trains from London Paddington that run a couple of times a day. This will save you changing at Bath Spa or having to get a taxi from nearby Castle Cary station.