The Slaughters Country Inn, Lower Slaughter, Gloucestershire

The Slaughters Country Inn enjoys an idyllic setting by the River Eye as it flows through the glorious village of Lower Slaughter. This rural hotel is accessible via country roads from the M40, and by train - the nearest station is at Moreton-in-Marsh, about seven-and-a-half miles north. Famously pretty Stow-on-the-Wold is a three-and-a-half-mile drive north, while the family attractions of Bourton-on-the-Water are about two miles south.

By car: around 45 minutes from Oxford, 2 hours from London and 1 hour from Bristol. Free parking available.

By train: direct trains to Moreton-in-Marsh from Oxford (35 minutes) and London Paddington (1 hour 30 mins). The station is a 20-minute drive from the hotel. Book trains to Moreton-in-Marsh.

The furnishings create a deeply relaxing mood. With inviting sofas and two log fires in the generous bar area, the hotel is the epitome of cosiness in winter. Come in autumn for terrific colour in the wonderful grounds, and in spring and summer for outdoor lazing and dining.

It's no mean feat maintaining grounds to such a level of well-clipped prettiness - the hotel's welcoming team includes two talented gardeners. Facilities range from a small lounge to a choice of packages for weddings.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Terrace
• Garden
• Pet-friendly
• Family-friendly
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

The bedrooms are furnished in gentle colours, with large headboards and soft throws on the beds. Those in the oldest part of the main building have the quirkiest shapes and features; the more modern cottage rooms have their own front doors and are split across two floors. If you're seeking a rolltop tub, opt for one of the superior rooms in the main house.

Room types: Classic, Deluxe, Superior, Junior Suite, Family Suite, Cottage

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with L'Occitane toiletries, tea and coffee facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi

The menu offers comfort food with flamboyant flourishes. Choices range from pub classics such as Gloucestershire Old Spot sausages to hearty mains like roast lamb rump and veggie options like spiced fennel samosas. Sunday roasts are enormously popular; booking is pretty much essential. For a foodie treat, visit the hotel's sibling property, The Slaughters Manor House, just across the road.

Restaurant & Bar: country inn, period features. Showcasing local produces. All-day menu served Mon-Sat, Sunday lunch served 12-3pm.