A sweeping drive leads you to this impressive 17th century mansion set in 63 acres of lush Hampshire parkland. With an incredible mile-long avenue of lime trees dominating the view from the hotel’s gourmet restaurant, Lainston House Hotel is a welcome antidote to city life.

All of the 50 rooms and suites are individually styled and designed so that no two are the same; while a pillow menu and calming lavender balm ensures that you get a good night’s sleep. Expect other special touches: from complimentary goodie bags if you intend going out for the day to indulgent picnic hampers.

This is the place to fly fish for brown trout. On request, the hotel will happily arrange your own personal chef to set up a barbecue by the river, so you can enjoy your catch to the full. Alternatively, enjoy a game of tennis or croquet, or simply walk around the gardens and discover the 12th century chapel ruins.