Lords of the Manor, Upper Slaughter, Gloucestershire

The approach to Lords of the Manor is through the sublime Cotswold countryside and via the picturesque village of Upper Slaughter. The front of the honey-stone manor house looks onto rolling lawns, the River Eye and a swan-frequented lake. The back opens onto a lovely walled garden. There is no traffic noise - the peace is almost palpable. The hotel is three miles north of pretty Bourton-on-the-Water, with its family attractions, and three miles west of Stow-on-the-Wold, with its galleries and cafes.

By car: The hotel is 2 hours 15 mins from London, 1 hour 20 mins from Birmingham and 3 hours from Manchester. There is free parking on-site.

By train: London Paddington to Kingham station takes around 1 hour 20 mins. The hotel is a 20-minute taxi ride from the station. Book trains to Kingham Station.

This is a wonderfully rambling property, with a warren of passageways and lots of cosy nooks. The public areas, including the lounge, library, bar and games room, were refurbished in 2019 and great care has been taken to maintain a country house style while adding colour with feature wallpaper and textiles.

With valet parking, concierge and sommelier, service is exemplary. The grounds are terrific: at the front, a sweeping lawn gives on to a wildflower meadow complete with a lake and river; at the back, there's a formal walled garden and a gravel garden.

• 2 restaurants
• Bar
• Lounge
• Pet-friendly
• Private gardens
• Room service
• Spa treatments in your room
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Located in the main house and adjoining granary and barns, the 26 bedrooms are individually devised, in keeping with the idiosyncrasies of each space. Some Country rooms might feel a bit cramped and some look a little worn. The Lord's suites are magnificent and feature tubs.

Room types: Country Bedrooms, Manor Bedrooms, Rectory Bedrooms, Cotswold Bedrooms, Lords Bedrooms

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom, hairdryer, bathrobes, slippers, TV, tea and coffee facilities, free Wi-Fi

With its outstanding tasting menu, The Atrium is a foodie haven. The Dining Room offers elegant informality with dishes such as sea bream with toasted cashew nuts.

The Atrium: 3 AA Rosette fine dining, sophisticated British cuisine, 8-course tasting menu. Served Weds-Sun at 6.45pm. From £95 per person.

The Dining Room: Seasonal dishes, British and European inspired cuisine. Open daily for dinner from 6.30pm, and Saturday and Sunday for lunch. Mains from £16.