Hotel Review: Down Hall, Essex

Set within a 100-acre estate and situated on the Hertfordshire/Essex border in Hatfield Heath near Bishop's Stortford, the hotel is 20 minutes' drive from Stansted Airport, near the M11. The large estate and facilities such as the spa mean there's plenty to do at the hotel.

By car: Down Hall is under an hour from Cambridge, an hour from London and 2 hours 30 minutes from Birmingham. Free parking on-site.

By train: London Liverpool Street to Harlow Town takes 20 minutes. The hotel is a 20-minute taxi ride from the station. Book trains to Harlow Town.

The hotel's style varies considerably, from the lounge with its 1980s feel to the newly revamped cocktail bar, which is smart and cool. The building is attractive from some angles. The garden room restaurant has a green palette with rainforest wallpaper and green linen panels.

As well as a restaurant and extensive grounds encompassing 110 acres with woodland walks and fields to explore, there's a spa, tennis courts, a croquet lawn, giant outdoor chess set, a gym and a jogging trail with keep-fit equipment.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Gardens
• Terrace
• Gym
• Spa
• Dog-friendly
• Family-friendly
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

The 99 rooms have traditional décor such as a cream colour palette with light-patterned wallpaper, fabric panels, a flatscreen TV, tea and coffee facilities, a big, comfortable bed, built-in wardrobes and an antique-style desk.

Room types: Classic, Executive, Prestige, Feature, Deluxe, Mansion House Suite, Master Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom and toiletries, tea and coffee maker, mini fridge, TV, free Wi-Fi

With a choice of a sundowner on the terrace, afternoon tea in the lounge, a cocktail in the cocktail bar and hearty dishes in the restaurant, there are plenty of settings for food and drink. The breakfast buffet includes cheeses, meats, cereals and pastries, with à la carte options.

Garden Room: fine dining restaurant, modern British cuisine. Open daily for dinner.

The Terrace: outdoor dining and bar. Dishes include sharing plates, pizzas and salads. Open daily for lunch and dinner (weather permitting).