Lords of the Manor, Upper Slaughter, Cotswolds

Travel through the Cotswold countryside and picturesque vullage of Upper Slaughter to reach the hotel, a honey-stone manor house. The front of the hotel looks onto rolling lawns, the River Eye and a swan-frequented lake, while the back opens onto a lovely walled garden.

The hotel is three miles north of Bourton-on-the-Water and three miles west of Stow-on-the-Wold.

By car: 1 hour 20 minutes from Birmingham, 2 hours 15 minutes from London and 3 hours from Manchester. Free on-site parking available.

By train: London Paddington to Kingham station takes 1 hour 20 minutes, after which, a taxi takes 20 minutes. Book trains to Kingham.

The public areas, including the lounge, library, bar and games room were refurbished in 2019 - and while additions include pops of colour through feature wallpaper and textiles, attention and care have been given to help maintain a country-house style. You'll still find a warren of passageways and lots of cosy nooks in this rambling property.

The level of service is exemplary, with on-site valet parking, concierge and sommelier. The grounds are terrific.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Terrace
• Garden
• Board games
• Pet-friendly
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Bedrooms are located in the main house and adjoining granary and barns - and all are individually-designed. Some of the entry level rooms might feel a bit cramped and some look a little worn. However, the Lord's suites are magnificent and feature tubs.

Room types: Country, Manor, Rectory, Cotswold, Lord's Suite

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

The Atrium is foodie heaven. We loved the fallow deer with spiced redcurrants. The Dining Room offers elegant informality with dishes such as sea bream with toasted cashew nuts.

The Atrium: 3 AA-Rosette fine dining, British cuisine. Open Wed-Sun for dinner. Tasting menu from £95 per person.

The Dining Room: British and European cuisine, seasonal menus. Open daily for dinner, Sat-Sun for lunch. Mains from £16.