This elegant retreat is squirrelled away in the National Forest of Needwood in rural Staffordshire in 50 acres of lovely grounds – perfect for getting away from it all. Originally a stately home, commissioned by Hugo Meynell Ingram and completed in 1871, Hoar Cross Hall is now a Grade II listed four star hotel and spa with 96 rooms and suites, but retains many of its handsome features, with corniced ceilings, wood panelling, 48 chimneys and mullioned windows, turreted water towers and huge marble fireplaces.

I like the styling at this hotel – they’ve hit the right balance between playing to the handsome heritage with chesterfields and velvet, but also giving the bedrooms and public spaces a more modern touch in places with some playful art and styling.

The big calling card at Hoar Cross Hall is the award-winning subterranean spa which features a 26 metre saltwater vitality pool (with whizzy volcano and jet massage), plunge pool, hydrotherapy pool, Snooze Room and a comprehensive 40 treatment menu from Clarins, Elemis, Spa Find, Jessica, and Aromatherapy Associates.

There’s an AA rosette for the menu here, served grandly in The Ballroom restaurant should you wish to undo all your good work in the gym and spa (yes we would). And beyond gastronomy and the spa you there are stunning formal gardens, an Italianate lake area, library, large sunbathing terrace, lawn tennis (unusual these days to still find grass courts and rather lovely), table tennis, billiards and in the gym aerobics, pilates and yoga.