Buckland Manor Hotel

NR BROADWAY, WORCESTERSHIRE,

Some historic manor houses disappoint – usually because once you cross the threshold, you’re led down a maze of hallways to the ‘new wing’ that’s roughly a mile from the main house and with all the historical interest of Ikea. But Buckland Manor is the real deal. Dating back to the 13th century, everything about it says classic Cotswolds – from the perfectly manicured gardens complete with croquet lawn and tennis courts to the quaint adjoining church. Inside, the bedrooms are plush and comfy, and generally the interior blends traditional with modern in all the right places (nobody wants 13th-century plumbing). You have the grandiose leather armchairs to sink into with a good book during the day, fine lawns on which to enjoy afternoon tea and a restaurant that serves dinner befitting of such a manor house. Pressing of wood pigeon and foie gras with port wine jelly and hazelnut pesto for starters, herb-crusted, braised shoulder of lamb with honey-roasted sweetbreads for the main course followed by… well, you get the picture. Doubles from £290.