Biggin Hall

Offering 'remarkably good value' and 'good food at the price', this Grade II* listed 17th-century building in a small Peak District village is popular with walkers for its simple, unfussy style. Close by are 'footpaths in all directions over beautiful countryside': one starts from the grounds, and disused railway tracks nearby provide flat walking and cycling. The house has antiques, narrow mullioned windows, and 'warm and inviting' public rooms. The lounge, with its massive stone fireplace, can get crowded when guests gather at 6.30 for drinks before dinner which is served at 7 pm in the chintzy dining room. 'There are no table reservations, so when dinner is announced, we all troupe off to grab a good one without looking too competitive.' Mark Wilton's 'traditional English' dishes are hearty and 'well cooked', eg, baked Scottish salmon with chive sauce; apple and cinnamon crumble with custard. Breakfast is a 'comprehensive hot and cold buffet'. Packed lunches are available. The master suite (beamed, with four-poster) is in the main house. Some rooms are in buildings in the courtyard or across the lawn. 'Mine needed a make-over,' one guest thought. The owner, James Moffett, is 'semi-retired'; his manager is Steven Williams. (Max Lickfold, Rex Bellamy, and others)