Coworth Park, Ascot, Berkshire

Once you've parked in the roomy carpark, you have 240 acres to call home, but if you want to drive, you'll be in historic Windsor in under 20 minutes. Windsor Great Park is ideal for a picnic, and the town has a host of shops, cafes and restaurants, not to mention the castle. Hiring a rowing boat in Windsor is a fun way to see the town, rowing past swaths of swans along the river Thames.

By car: around 1 hour 30 minutes from London, 1 hour 45 minutes from Bristol and 3 hours 45 minutes from Manchester. Free parking available.

By train: Ascot and Staines stations are less than 15 minutes away by taxi. Book trains to Ascot or Staines.

There's a definite nature theme in the hotel, from the bronze tree sculpture in the lobby to bulrush motifs inspired by the plants growing by the lake. The four seasons are cleverly depicted with floral paintings in the Summer Room, a spring feel in the well-lit bar, an autumnal copper leaf chandelier in the restaurant and winter hues in the Drawing Room.

The Director of Guest Relations, Julian Goiran, noticed our interest in the history of Coworth brought us the 'Insiders Guide': a lovingly put together, beautifully presented, insightful overview of the hotel and its grounds; a nice touch. Avid tea drinkers will be impressed with the tea in the room, from sencha to a special blend of Earl Grey.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Terrace
• Garden
• Swimming pool
• Fitness centre
• Spa
• Wellness suite
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms in the Stable and Mansion House are calming with white interiors and highlights of brown, upholstered leather chairs and wicker baskets. Mansion House suites are roomier and similarly themed, and there are also cottages to a private gatehouse and private listed house for you to call home.

Room types: Superior Room, Deluxe Room, Junior Suite, Executive Suite, Premium Suite, Cottage Suite, Signature Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with tolietries, tea and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi

Eating at Restaurant Coworth Park is a joy from start to finish. The creative Michelin-starred menu incorporates fresh produce from their edible garden, honey from their beehives and foraged elements such as meaty hen of the woods mushrooms with chestnuts from the estate, accompanied by truffle and pumpkin. The Barn is more relaxed yet still sophisticated.

The Barn: rustic restaurant, modern British food. All-day menu, open daily. Mains from £24.

The Drawing Room: cosy dining and terrace. All-day menu and afternoon tea served daily.