Gourmet bolthole

THE BOWER HOUSE Shipston-on-Stour

The epitome of a traditional market town, Shipstonon-Stour is all cheery bunting, independent butchers and family-run bakers. There’s no candlestick maker, but there is an oversubscribed watchmaker with a two-year waiting list and a wine shop that’s been trading since 1842 – now that’s what we call vintage. Right in the centre, occupying a Grade II-listed building, are five glamorous rooms that nail retro chic. Room One (one of the biggest and best) is dressed with sherbet-pink walls and palm-print curtains and cushions. In the bathroom, twin sinks are framed by turquoise tiles with a claw-footed tub taking pride of place. Pick your poison from the well-stocked antique silver drinks tray – do try the small-batch Cotswold gin from the distillery down the road – before drawing a bath for a pre-dinner soak. In sync with upstairs, the restaurant dazzles with its marble-topped tables and bar smothered in antique patterned pink tiles. Order the Camembert engulfed in a warm seeded sourdough (sharing optional) before digging into the short rib burger bulging with bacon and dripping with cheese. Leave room for the chocolate fondant (sharing strongly ill-advised) to finish. In the morning, settle in for a full English with all the trimmings. Be sure to have a nose around the gorgeous deli next door, where Bower House guests receive a generous ten per cent off all purchases. FRM. Doubles from £130. bower.house