The O’Hara family seat since 1858, this 18th-century house in ‘rolling countryside’ is run with ‘indomitable spirit’ by Warwick and Anne O’Hara. ‘A stay at their home is a unique experience,’ say Guide inspectors in 2017. ‘Anne radiates a sense of calm and scholarship; Warwick is a most remarkable gentleman. At breakfast he cut a striking figure, immaculate as ever in his red-striped apron.’ Guests are welcomed with tea and ‘a delicious variety of cake’ by the fire in the drawing room (original wallpaper, ‘pretty flower arrangements’, family photos on the grand piano); in the evening, sherry is set out for pre-dinner drinks. Traditionally furnished bedrooms look out over the ‘well-designed garden’ and grounds. ‘Our elegant room had an ornate wardrobe and dressing table; a smallish, brass-framed double bed.’ Join fellow guests in the fire-warmed dining room (‘candlelight lends an intimate atmosphere’) for communal home-cooked dinners using produce from the large walled garden and greenhouse. Typical offerings: deep-fried Brie, redcurrant sauce; ‘braised beef with plenty of vegetables’ – ‘all served by Warwick, with obvious love for his work.’