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 Niall Keating’s two-Michelin-starred ‘daring and innovative’ taster menu, perhaps halibut with yuzukosho and black truffle, and a chocolate dessert with buttermilk and chamomile, although one reader found the ceremony of 11 courses too lengthy. Alternatively, Grey’s Brasserie has a ‘sophisticated city’ vibe and dishes such as stone bass with mussels. 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’.