The North Wing at Combermere Abbey, Nantwich, Cheshire

Confusingly, Combermere has a Shropshire postcode - but the estate itself sits firmly on the Cheshire side of the border, seven miles south of Nantwich and five miles north of Whitchurch. It's a totally rural setting with a large mere (an SSSI site) and 1,000 acres of rolling parkland and ancient woodlands. South Cheshire is a place for canal strolls, pootling around farm shops and country churches, and enjoying the views from Sandstone Ridge.

By car: around 4 hours' drive from London or 90 minutes from Manchester. Free parking is available on-site.

By train: Nantwich is the closest station and has direct links to Manchester. Crewe Station is a 30-minute taxi ride away, with direct links to London. Book trains to Cheshire.

The renovation of the North Wing has been so skilfully done, with no corners cut, that it's hard to believe this part of the hall was once totally dilapidated. The period details look good as new, the rooms are furnished with assorted antiques, and there's a fresh country house feel, with natural paints, plush fabrics and vases of cut flowers.

House manager Stephan is on hand to look after North Wing guests, greeting new arrivals with tea and cake, providing sightseeing tips, booking tables for dinner, and rising early in the morning to cook your breakfast. Elsewhere on the estate, there's a tennis court, self-catering cottages and extensive grounds to explore.

• Gardens
• Lounge
• Personal butler service
• Free bike hire
• Adults-only
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

The North Wing has just two bedrooms. The smaller of the two (though still a good size) is Bhurtpore, with oak-panelled walls and the option of converting the super king bed into two singles. Next door is the larger and lighter Salamanca, with lovely lake views through its Gothic arched windows.

Room types: Bhurtpore, Salamanca

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, TV, free Wi-Fi

The only meal served in the North Wing is breakfast, but it's a good spread that includes pastries, cereals, yoghurts, and whichever elements of a full English take your fancy. Eating out for lunch and dinner is no problem, with plenty of appealing local pubs to choose from within easy driving distance.

The dining room: a range of breakfast options are available, from continental to full English. Included in room rate.