Brockencote Hall

You might wonder if you have arrived in the Loire valley as you drive through landscaped parkland to find this country-house hotel overlooking a lake and 17th-century dovecote. The Victorian mansion, remodelled in château style, is part of the Eden Hotel Collection (see also Mallory Court, Leamington Spa). It offers 'excellent value' says a reader, who adds that it's 'hard to find any criticism'. Public rooms have original maple and pine woodwork and period furniture. Bedrooms range from contemporary classics to stunning feature suites. The converted Gate Lodge has three double rooms, private dining and outdoor hot tub (friends and families can book it for themselves). All rooms have home-made biscuits, fruit, savouries, luxury toiletries. ‘Our bedroom was a very good size with a huge, well-laid-out bathroom.’ You can dine from a lounge menu featuring pub classics or a gourmet tasting menu comprising six or nine courses. ‘Dinner a delight… good bread basket too. Service was personal and professional.' Breakfasts have a wide range of options, while outside, the 'setting and grounds are impressive and beautifully presented'. (ID)