Lord of the Manor

With breathtaking settings and exceptional service, some hotels let us live like royalty — even just for a weekend. We tip our hats to these first-class country escapes

THE NEWT IN SOMERSET, SOMERSET

One of the most talked-about hotels of the past year, The Newt in Somerset could probably win an award for column inches alone. Why? Well, when you’re the latest launch from South African power couple

Koos and Karen Bekker (of winelands wonder Babylonstoren), you command a certain thirst for more. A stone’s throw from Bruton, this stylish country stay hits all the right notes, fleshing out the honey-stoned halls of 17thcentury Hadspen House with classy, modern designs. Staying here inspires an almost childlike urge to explore — and there’s plenty to discover on this 800-acre estate, including a spa, cider press, farm shop, spectacular gardens and the sumptuous rooms of the Stable Yard and Granary. It’s worthy of any discerning lords and ladies of the manor. From £275, B&B. thenewtinsomerset.com

RUNNERS- UP HOTEL CHÂTEAU DU GRAND-LUCÉ, LOIRE VALLEY, FRANCE

This 18th-century palace near Le Mans is the epitome of Gallic grandeur.

Expect immaculate interiors awash with antiques, original oak parquet flooring and canopied four-poster beds. It’s all very endearingly French and fancy. From €475 (£428), B&B. chateaugrandluce.com

GRANTLEY HALL, YORKSHIRE

The grand Palladian mansion near Ripon nails first impressions — and the charm continues indoors, too, with everything from a state-of-the-art spa to a winetasting room, as well as 47 regal rooms and suites. The numerous dining options include fine fare from Shaun Rankin. From £350, B&B. grantleyhall.co.uk

CLOCKWISE FROM RIGHT: Freestanding tub overlooking the Namib Desert, Sonop; private yoga class at Sonop; lunch at The Newt in Somerset, made with home-grown garden produce; the 17thcentury Hadspen House, The Newt in Somerset