The Retreat at Elcot Park – Newbury, West Berkshire

A newly reimagined 18th-century country hotel and spa set in glorious grounds between Hungerford and Newbury, The Retreat at Elcot Park is the sister property to The Mitre at Hampton Court. Bedrooms are colourful and full of character, combining antiques with contemporary art and patterned textiles. Each suite is different: one has a copper rolltop bath in a bay window; another, a separate room with bunk beds for children. The vibe is laid-back luxury. For food, choose between 1772, a relaxed all-day brasserie or the smarter fine-dining Pan-Asian restaurant Yü (ideally find time to try both). There’s also a children’s play area, and a spa complete with hydrotherapy pool, treatment rooms, steam and sauna. In the courtyard, there’s chef and author Clodagh Mckenna’s Clodagh Store, plus a wine cave, hair and nail salon, and a monthly farmers’ market. Active types can play games of tennis or croquet but in the summer, the place to be is around the outdoor infinity pool. This is a new chapter for a country classic – and once you check in, there’s really no need to leave.

Doubles from £150

+44 (0)1635 800520; retreatelcotpark.com