At the head of a double avenue of lime and beech trees, Lucknam Park is in a league of its own. It occupies a mellow 17th-century mansion, with gracious reception rooms and stylish bedrooms in the house and former stables. It’s impeccably run, with attentive yet discreet service. You’ll find Hywel Jones’ exceptional Michelin-starred cooking in his. eponymous formal restaurant and the cool, contemporary brasserie with open kitchen. Then there’s the spa, including a sleek indoor and outdoor pool, sauna, salt room, eight treatment rooms and a social lounge with a skincare mixology bar. The impressive equestrian centre caters to all standards, from pony mad to down with dressage. For your own slice of the estate, book the chic cottages, ranging from one to four bedrooms, individually designed to give you the ultimate five-star stay. Excellent facilities for children, including dedicated play areas, bicycles and a football pitch, make Lucknam as great a choice for families as for romantic couples, friends and celebrations.

Doubles from £295, room only
Cottages from £1040, room only

+44 (0)1225 742777; lucknampark.co.uk

A hotel in the countryside