The United Kingdom comprises four nations, each with plenty of activities and attractions to offer tourists. Its beating heart, London, is a one-stop destination for a complete English experience. On the banks of the River Thames, you will find the historic Tower of London - one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. If you love the countryside, spend your days in the picturesque Cotswolds. One of the must-visit places here is Bourton-on-the-Water, a well-preserved riverside village. You can appreciate the outdoors further when you explore Lake District National Park which is home to many pristine lakes. For a scenic retreat with your loved ones, check out the top hotels by the river in the United Kingdom, below.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and location by the river. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on May 07, 2026.
1. Richmond Hill Hotel; Richmond (from USD 205)
Richmond Hill Hotel boasts a scenic hilltop location in Richmond, providing quick access to Riverside and Richmond Park. It is only within a 1.61-km (1-mi) radius of Richmond Bridge Boat Hire which offers boats you can rent to explore the river. Whenever you need a breath of fresh air, you can explore Riverside and enjoy a nature walk. After a long day, you can rest and recharge in one of the sophisticated guest rooms and suites.
This hotel is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along for an extra fee.
Richmond Hill Hotel This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 144-150 Richmond Hill
2. The Swan Hotel and Spa; Newby Bridge (from USD 232)
Fantastic breakfast with great service. Some issues with slow service, limited buffet choices, and overpriced or inconsistent quality of meals. Excellent staff and accommodating for special occasions.
Great value for money, especially with free breakfast for Genius Level 2 members. Spa access at an additional cost.
Beautiful setting at the bottom of Lake Windermere, ideal for exploring the Lakes scenery, villages, and attractions. Limited dining options within immediate area.
Lovely spa, pool, and thermal garden. Dog-friendly with spacious rooms and comfortable beds. Some maintenance needed in the spa and pool areas.
Set at the tip of Windermere on River Leven, The Swan Hotel and Spa offers a nice change of scenery in Newby Bridge. With the hotel’s partnership with Paddleboard The Lakes, you can easily enjoy paddleboarding on the water. Stay in any of the colorful rooms or suites that also offer great amenities. Some rooms even boast beautiful river views.
Moreover, this hotel has an in-house spa, Holte Spa, with many recreational facilities. You can relax in the sauna, steam room, or whirlpool if you are not getting a massage.
The Swan Hotel and Spa
Address: Newby Bridge
3. Craig-y-Dderwen Riverside Hotel; Betws-y-Coed (from USD 164)
Craig-y-Dderwen Riverside Hotel is housed in a historic country house that has been around in Betws-y-Coed since the late 19th century. It enjoys a stunning setting on the banks of River Conwy. Complementing the riverside setting, this stunning hotel boasts 6.47-ha (16-ac) grounds with lush gardens. During your stay here, you do not have to worry about where to eat because an on-site restaurant is available which beautifully overlooks the river.
Well-behaved dogs are permitted here, so do not think twice about bringing your four-legged friends.
Craig-y-Dderwen Riverside Hotel
Address: Betws-y-Coed
4. Minster Mill Hotel & Spa; Minster Lovell (from USD 177)
Nestled on the banks of River Windrush in Minster Lovell, Minster Mill Hotel & Spa is an excellent base camp for exploring the Cotswolds. Here, you can enjoy cozy rooms and other great amenities for a relaxing stay.
This hotel offers exciting fishing opportunities on the river, especially for beginners. Coarse fishing is available from mid-June to mid-March, while fly fishing and trout fishing are from April to September. If you are bringing your own angling gear, you are more than welcome to fish independently. You may also fish with the help of an experienced ghillie who can teach you all the basics.
Old Swan & Minster Mill
Address: Old Minster
5. Hilton Belfast; Belfast (from USD 166)
Delicious breakfast, good restaurant food, and friendly staff; however, slow restaurant service noted.
Reasonable pricing for a city center hotel with exclusive lounge access and free breakfast.
Convenient location near St George's Market, Lanyon Place Station, and city center attractions.
Modern facilities, exclusive lounge access, river views, and quick check-in.
Hilton Belfast sits next to Waterfront Hall on the banks of River Lagan in Belfast. An ideal choice for leisure travelers, this lovely property is located only 0.8 km (0.5 mi) away from the city center and about 3.22 km (2 mi) away from Titanic Quarter. The on-site restaurant has a riverfront setting, so you can dine surrounded by picturesque views.
Thanks to the 24-hour fitness center, you can work out anytime. Pets are also welcome here for a minimal extra fee as long as each weighs a maximum of 34 kg (74.96 lbs).
Hilton Belfast This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 4 Lanyon Place
6. Galgorm; Ballymena (from USD 291)
Situated within a 153.78-ha (380-ac) parkland by River Main in Ballymena, Galgorm is one of the leading luxury hotels in Northern Ireland. Providing a quick escape from the hustle and bustle, it is only about half an hour away from Belfast. You can take advantage of the many recreational facilities here to recharge completely. You may soak in one of the riverside hot tubs or enjoy a refreshing dip in the indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
Furthermore, you can detox in one of the on-site saunas and steam rooms.
Galgorm
Address: Fenaghy Road
7. River Hotel; Oxford (from USD 164)
River Hotel is located on the banks of the River Thames on the edge of Oxford, so it has a relatively quiet countryside setting for a tranquil stay.
As an independently operated hotel with only 18 guest rooms and suites, this property promises attentive hospitality for every guest. Every morning, you can enjoy your breakfast at the in-house restaurant overlooking the garden and river. The spacious lawn leads down to the river so you can easily enjoy a breath of fresh air or admire the scenic landscapes around you.
River Hotel
Address: 17 Botley Road
8. Banchory Lodge Hotel; Banchory (from USD 114)
Delicious breakfast and dinner, though some guests found the pricing a bit high.
Reasonable pricing for comfortable rooms and dog-friendly options.
Conveniently located near the delightful town of Banchory with stunning views of the river Dee.
Quirky decor, beautiful grounds, French press coffee maker in rooms.
Offering quality accommodations on the banks of the River Dee in Banchory, the lovely Banchory Lodge Hotel is the perfect home away from home when you explore Royal Deeside. It is surrounded by scenic trails and different attractions, including art galleries and castles. Various activities await you, especially on the river. If you like fishing, River Dee got you covered because it is one of the nation’s best salmon rivers. After fishing, you can enjoy a nature walk around the river.
Hunting is also a favorite pastime in the area.
Banchory Lodge Hotel
Address: Dee Street
9. Riverside Hotel by Chef & Brewer Collection; Branston (from USD 127)
Housed in a renovated vintage farmhouse in Branston, Riverside Hotel by Chef & Brewer Collection has a timeless charm that blends well with modern conveniences. It provides easy access to River Trent so you can head out for a walk around the river anytime.
Before going out, you can enjoy a hearty breakfast served between 7am and 9am on weekdays, and between 8am and 10am on weekends. Brunch is also available. Moreover, this hotel is dog-friendly so you can stay with your four-legged friends.
Riverside Hotel by Chef & Brewer Collection
Address: Riverside Dr, Branston
10. Chainbridge Usk Riverside Gastro Pub And Accommodation; Trostrey (from USD 121)
Chainbridge Usk Riverside Gastro Pub And Accommodation in Trostrey offers well-appointed guest rooms and suites, many of which have river views.
It features a terrace where you can hang out to enjoy the fresh air. With the on-site bar and restaurant, you need not worry about where to eat. A full English or Irish breakfast is available daily, so you may always start the day right with a good meal. If you plan to bring a car, you may park on the premises at no additional charge.
Appreciate United Kingdom’s impeccable scenery
The United Kingdom has many spectacular landscapes and well-preserved historical landmarks. As you plan your trip, check out these top hotels by the river in the United Kingdom, and have the best time of your life!
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