De Vere Wokefield Estate, near Reading, Berks

WHERE AND WHY

A half-mile sweeping drive takes you through 250 acres of landscaped gardens and a PGA-standard championship golf course.

Wokefield’s accommodation is a glorious mix of the old and new – at its heart is The Mansion House, a grand 18th century country house, and next door is more modern accommodation in a swanky new conference building.

Our large suite in the Mansion House was fabulous, with a four-poster bed and a spacious bathroom. We were delighted by the quirky period accessories including a gramophone and a telescope – but we also enjoyed the more modern 50in TV and free wi-fi. Aside from the golf course and driving range, the hotel also has a gym, indoor pool and numerous function rooms.

THE COVID CHECK-IN

We couldn’t fault the procedures. A member of staff called us two days before our visit to explain that all rooms were sanitised and “quarantined” between guest usage, and that although Covid meant no buffet breakfast, we would have a continental breakfast delivered and could also collect sausage or bacon baps.

The gym and pool must be booked in advance, with a maximum of 10 permitted in the pool. Throughout our stay all staff wore masks and guests were asked to do so in public areas. Restaurant tables were distanced.

ON THE MENU

In Wokefield Place there are burgers and pizzas at Benedict’s Bar or The View, which affords a vista of the grounds, but we dined in the Mansion House’s 1560 restaurant, which opens on to the terrace. The menu is traditional and Covid means the choice is slightly compromised, but not the quality. The melt-in-the-mouth sirloin followed a liver paté entrée which may be the best I’ve eaten, ever. Starters from £7, mains from £13.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE

It’s an idyllic setting and the standout attraction is the 6,996-yard golf course, but it’s also an ideal base from which to explore. The Roman sights of Silchester are two miles away and Windsor is about half-an-hour away. Highclere House, the setting for Downton Abbey, is also close.

WAKE-UP CALL

One night’s B&B from £98.10 per room, with a current offer of a night’s stay plus two rounds of golf, dinner and breakfast from £99 per person. De Vere is donating 10 per cent from all direct bookings to NHS Charities Together. devere.co.uk/wokefield-estate/