Langar Hall

‘High standards are faultlessly maintained’ at this somewhat eccentric, wholly likeable hotel in the Vale of Belvoir. It was run with much spirit by Imogen Skirving, the well-loved chatelaine, until her sudden death in 2016; an ‘enthusiastic young team’ upholds her traditions. Within the apricot-coloured house – bought by the late owner’s great-grandmother in 1860 – guests are greeted with ‘thoughtfulness’ and ‘consideration’. ‘The staff are attentive but never intrusive.’ Public rooms and bedrooms are ‘well furnished in a restrained country house style’, with fine paintings and antiques. ‘The bedrooms are individual, and contain some surprises. Cartland has a step in the middle of the floor, which can be a minor hazard for nocturnal expeditions.’ Take afternoon tea in the brightly decorated garden room (while the children play on the swings and trampoline outside); at dinner, enjoy ‘reliable’ dishes – perhaps Langar lamb, heritage baby beetroot, goat’s curd – along with an ‘extensive’ wine list. ‘Game is excellent; twice-baked cheese soufflé is equally good at either end of the meal.’ (Peter Jowitt)