‘The three generations were happy with the day. We relaxed over croquet, some played tennis, and we had the library for ourselves.’ Praise this year for this Jacobean-cum-Georgian mansion in an Arcadian landscape, from readers who celebrated a significant anniversary there. Owned by the National Trust, it houses beautiful antiques and paintings. ‘The rooms are grand but also relaxing.’ Hartwell was once home to the exiled Louis XVIII with Queen Marie-Joséphine. She, liking a drink, would surely have admired today’s wine list with good choice by the glass. A staircase adorned with statues leads to spacious bedrooms and opulent suites. ‘We loved the historic items in our large first-floor room, at the front, in this case a tapestry.’ Brunches, lunches and afternoon tea are served in the café bar. Dinner in the restaurant is formal but unstuffy; dress smartly. Daniel Richardson’s creative modern fare includes pan-fried hake fillet, saffron and potato gnocchi, leek flavours, white wine fish and tomato sauce. ‘Dinner was excellent, especially the succulent guineafowl.’ Service is ‘unobtrusive and exceptional’. ‘We were all delighted with our stay.’ (Alice and John Sennett. MC)