The Manor House, Castle Combe, Wiltshire

The hotel has its own grounds and occupies a whimsical spot in a wooded valley beside one of the Cotswolds' loveliest villages. Castle Combe is a hit with tourists for its gorgeous sweep of cottages and quaint setting alongside a brook. It is also close to the M4 and Bath. Castle Combe is picture perfect, with a medieval market cross. Opposite the cross is The Castle Inn, a homely, traditional gastropub that is also owned by the hotel.

By car: 30 minutes from Bath or Bristol, 2 hours 20 minutes from London and 3 hours 20 minutes from Manchester. There is free parking on site.

By train: trains to Chippenham run from Bath or Bristol, the ride takes around 1 hour 30 minutes. The hotel is around a 15-minute drive from Chippenham station. Book trains to Chippenham.

This 14th-century hotel is a vision in butterscotch, with pretty chimneys and large windows looking onto the lawns. Inside, the lounges are decorated in a refined, elegant style. An Italianate garden flows over terraces at the back of the house, while there is a golf course up on the hill.

The staff had a sunny, positive attitude and would regularly check that we had everything we needed. Their chatty service was appreciated in the restaurant also, which prevented the formal atmosphere from being stuffy.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Golf course
• Tennis court
• Gardens
• Free parking
• Pet-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi

Guests can stay in the main house or in the charming row of cottages that flanks the hotel. Expect a massive range of styles and sizes between rooms, some have four-poster beds, wooden beams and historic features, whereas others are more cottagey in feel, with log burners, or are contemporary. Bathrooms can vary too, so check when booking.

Room types: Cosy, Smart, Traditional, Plush and Dog-friendly rooms, Suites, Cottages

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom, seating area, work desk, king or queen-size bed, handmade mattress, original decorative features

Rob Potter is Head Chef at the Bybrook Restaurant, which has retained a Michelin star since 2017. Dishes on the tasting menu feature intricate presentation and well-matched flavours, with ingredients from the garden and locally-sourced meat and game featuring prominently. Afternoon tea is available.

Bybrook: Michelin-starred elegant fine dining. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 6-8.30pm.

The Full Glass Bar: Informal dining, extensive gin menu. Open 9am-10.30pm.