Whatley Manor

One of the last true country house hotels, this 14th-century manor sits within 365 acres of formal gardens and parkland in a picture-postcard village – and the immensely charming interior features characterful oak panelling and a host of cosy open-fired lounges. Quality produce from Anjou pigeon to Cornish brill plays a pivotal role in the menu, which results in a flavoursome blend of simple and premium ingredients. Dishes are precisely prepared and deliver refined, classic combinations with modern overtones. Luxurious bedrooms are split between the house and mews cottages.

Sitting within the luxurious Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa, but with a feel all of its own, is this elegant grey-hued restaurant – ask for a booth or dine in the garden in the summer months. It presents a slightly less formal alternative to The Dining Room, serving a menu of globally influenced small plates that's divided into 'Earth', 'Land' and 'Sea', often featuring salad and vegetables from the kitchen garden. The cooking showcases well-defined flavours and careful craft, in dishes like prawn tortellini with coconut bisque. On Sundays, you can enjoy a traditional roast lunch.

This is country house dining at its finest – opulent, formal and sophisticated – and it suits this grand Palladian mansion perfectly. Rich, elegant décor, extravagant furnishings and sumptuous fabrics feature throughout, from the beautiful bedrooms to the drawing rooms where pre-meal drinks are enjoyed. Expertly crafted dishes rely on classic techniques but have a light, modern style, and ingredients are luxurious and of top quality. Structured service comes with as much polish as the silver.

This charming inn makes a delightful pitstop, especially for those visiting the nearby motor racing circuit. The menu is just what you want to see in a place like this: a blackboard of daily specials and dishes that are punchy and full of flavour. In season, local game is always worth ordering and the desserts are consistently good too. The building dates back to the 12th century and boasts many original features; comfortable, immaculately appointed bedrooms complete the picture.

Everyone is asked to arrive at this well-run restaurant at 7pm – and that usually includes a loyal band of locals. The 3-hour menu takes on a surprise tasting format and there’s the option of matching wines or non-alcoholic options. Humble ingredients are used in ambitious, sometimes rather unusual combinations, which are precisely prepared. Service is structured and passionate, with dishes delivered by the chefs themselves.

The titular garden is that of the exquisite Lucknam Park, one of the finest country house hotels in all the land. Hidden within the carefully manicured hedges, behind the 18th-century manor house, is this inviting, glass-enclosed brasserie. Sit on the gorgeous terrace or at oversized, marble-topped tables in the bright, pristine dining room and choose from a concise selection of vibrant, proudly executed dishes underpinned by textbook culinary technique. Pastas, risottos and freshly fired pizzas add to the Mediterranean vibe, while the day boat fish is hard to resist.

Imagine dropping a French bistro into the Cotswolds and you’ve got something a lot like Juliet. Combining a buzzy vibe with an enthusiastic and affable team, plus delightful dishes from beyond France’s borders, it’s easy to see why the place is so popular. The menu largely sticks to the classics, providing satisfying versions of time-honoured favourites; keep an eye on the dish of the day, for treats such as cavatelli with lamb ragù. If you’re celebrating, consider booking the private Piano Bar, where a live musician will soundtrack your evening.