Cornwell Manor – Oxfordshire

It’s not just the honey-coloured house, or the hazy views down to the lakes as you peak through the fronds of wisteria from the master bedroom, nor even the individually decorated bedrooms. No, it’s the constant allusion to the fact that Cornwell Manor is a beloved family home that makes it such a special place – the family silver in the dining room, the portraits hanging in the hall and the photograph albums in the drawing room. Ideal for large family gatherings (sleeping up to 24) – with a panelled dining room seating 14 and a ballroom seating 70 – it’s a home from home that has seamlessly become the perfect rural retreat, complete with a swimming pool, tennis court and croquet lawn. Charlotte at Cornwell Manor is particularly well known for her party planning prowess – to make a family weekend unforgettable, dine under the stars on the pretty terrace under the dappled light of the weeping pear trees or invite friends to a summer garden party. Cornwell Manor’s claim to fame is that it has been in a number of films and TV series, including The Holiday, starring Jude Law and Cameron Diaz.

From £29,500 for 3 nights; licensed for weddings

+44 (0)1608 698673; cornwellmanor.com