Whatley Manor

Once you have navigated the joys of this ‘rambling building’ in honey Cotswold stone, with its ‘superb spa’, cinema and choice of dining, there are the 26 different ‘rooms’ in the ‘beautiful, well-tended gardens’ to explore. Among them are a topiary courtyard, ‘charming little retreats’, a water feature, and woodland walk. Within, the decor is ‘muted, leaning towards the masculine’. Wood panelling, rugs on polished floors, artwork and interesting objets create a ‘welcoming’ atmosphere in the lounges. For dinner, you can indulge in The Dining Room where Executive Chef Ricki Weston and his team hold a Michelin star, as well as a Green Michelin star for their seasonally changing menus. Alternatively, Grey’s Brasserie has a ‘sophisticated city’ vibe, and dishes such Loch Duart salmon, poached salsify, sauce vierge, confit lemon. Airy bedrooms have a modern elegance, and welcome with fruit, chocolates and elderflower cordial while under-floor-heated bathrooms have a bath as well as shower. Breakfast is ‘beautifully presented’ and ‘the standard set here is extremely high’.