HOTEL of the week

OLD DOWNTON LODGE NEAR LUDLOW, SHROPSHIRE

WHERE AND WHY Down a maze of country lanes, but only five miles from Ludlow – one of the smartest foodie destinations outside London – hides this resplendent heap of ancient farm buildings arranged around a beautiful flower-filled courtyard. Part

medieval, part Georgian, it’s been tastefully converted into nine guest rooms featuring four-poster beds and exposed beams. Fans of, er, that TV show might be disappointed to learn it’s not connected but if you fancy yourself as lord of the Manor, it’s hard to imagine a nicer place to do it from.

ON THE MENU The dining room – a Norman grain barn – is so impressive we worried it might upstage the food but head chef Karl is a secret weapon. He creates six- or ninecourse tasting menus featuring seasonal local ingredients. It’s €60-€75 a head, but is dramatic and delicious enough to feel like a full evening’s entertainment. The duck was

our favourite, but the chocolate ganache pudding put up a great fight.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE It’s on the borders of Shropshire and Herefordshire so you only need to roll out of the door in your walking boots to find yourself in glorious countryside. A short drive north is the Shropshire Hills AONB, with even more impressive hill walks.

WAKE UP CALL Rooms from €145 (Room 9 from €165) including delicious breakfast with local bacon and sausages. olddowntonlodge.com