The Newt was restored and launched in 2019 by South African power couple Koos Bekker and Karen Roos, known for their successful working-farm hotel, the Babylonstoren. The hotel is the result of exceptional restoration and revival of crafts, skills, and techniques, which creates a unique visitor experience that is both engaging and educational. Not surprisingly therefore, the Newt has made a name for itself as the great garden escape, winning multiple awards.

The sprawling gardens are at the core of the generous estate set in acres of woodland, cider orchards and farmland. Designed to be both productive and ornamental, the gardens designed by Italian-French architect Patrice Taravella, are “a feast for the eyes and stomach”. Their sheer size, variety of traditional and contemporary features makes them truly impressive. At the core sits the Parabola, a walled garden concealing an apple tree maze; at their edges, diverse woodland providing a sheltered habitat for native wildlife.

The International Garden Tourism Awards are presented to those organisations that have distinguished themselves in the development and promotion of garden experiences as tourism attractions and motivators for travel. According to the judges the recipients “exemplify true leadership in the world of garden tourism.”

Top 50 Boutique Hotels was conceived in 2020 and recognises the best boutique hotels in UK. The list is voted for and chosen by more than 100 judges, all key people in the hospitality industry.