In 300 acres of parkland originally laid out by landscape designer Humphry Repton, this welcoming and romantic Grade I listed Regency mansion comes with impressive modern facilities. There are two golf courses, a private cinema and an award-winning rooftop spa with saunas, steam rooms, an infinity pool and herb-infused treatments. Sleek accommodation ranges from suites (some with a private terrace) in contemporary wings, to cottages and lodges. Inspired by the seasons – creative dishes are ‘exceptionally good’ in the glass-sided spa restaurant, Horto. Vegetables, fruit and flowers come from the delightful kitchen garden; the hotel’s natural springs supply the water. In the glamorous Clocktower Restaurant and Bar, a 400-year-old Catalonian olive tree takes centre stage in the light-filled conservatory.  

The Yorke Arms is now an exclusive use venue. In the rolling Yorkshire Dales, the creeper-covered 18th-century shooting lodge, with extensive gardens, has an ‘unsurpassed’ location and dominates tiny Ramsgill. Inside, antiques and squashy sofas, plus hand-painted hessian wallpaper, are set against flagged floors and beamed ceilings. Bedrooms feature earthy colours and quirky themes: ‘Brew’ has teapot-patterned curtains. There are classy bathrooms and monogrammed linen. ‘The vegetable, fruit and flower gardens are wonderful, a real joy to walk around.’ Good walks from the door, too.