‘Superb’, ‘excellent’, ‘impressive’, ‘delightful’ – on the edge of the New Forest, this model of a country house hotel and spa is on top form, having celebrated its golden anniversary. ‘Friendly, attentive staff’ extend ‘the warmest welcome’ at the 18th-century manor house and throughout the massive estate; there are indoor and outdoor swimming pools, cooking classes, a children’s club, a woodland stream to follow to the beach. Choose one of the many ‘beautiful, oh-so-comfortable’ bedrooms and suites, or aim even higher: tree-house suites in a leafy setting have a mini-kitchen, a wood-burning stove, a spa bath, and a breakfast hamper in the morning. Simon Addison is now chef in the conservatory dining room, where produce from the kitchen garden informs the ‘divine’ modern menu (perhaps including Quantock duck breast, sweet potato, sprouting broccoli, heritage carrots). Informal meals (superfood salads; wood-fired pizzas) are served in the ‘brilliant’ new Kitchen restaurant, part of the sleek, purpose-built cookery school, complete with its own lounge and terrace. ‘We can’t speak highly enough of the place.’ (Chris Turner, Jenny Russell, and others)