The Devonshire Arms

A former 17th-century inn, which is part of the Duke of Devonshire’s 30,000-acre estate at Bolton Abbey, is today an impressive country-house hotel, with fine dining and a spa. It is a sister hotel to The Cavendish, Baslow (see entry). Its notable luxuries – antiques, stylish contemporary furniture, works of art from the Chatsworth collection – are complemented by ‘extremely helpful’ staff. Prompt, efficient service included a ‘fine glass of champagne’ for a swiftly corrected shower problem. Bedrooms range from being cosy in the new wing near the front of the property or overlooking the garden, to four-poster rooms, with larger ones in the original, traditionally furnished wing. All have fresh milk and coffee machines, and modern bathrooms with bath and shower. After a ‘beautiful country walk from the door’ dine in the smart Burlington restaurant on dishes such as duck breast and confit leg with parsnip, almond and madeira, or try the colourful brasserie’s more casual menu – ‘good-quality traditional meals such as steak and chips’. ‘We had a lovely evening. Our room was very comfortable and the food and service at breakfast very good.’ (Bill Wood, ML, and others)