Designed by the same architect who created the stunning Gothic revival masterpiece that is Truro Cathedral, the grade II listed Alverton is a gloriously historic English inn complete with its own bell tower, mullioned windows and wonderfully romantic archways clad in russet-red ivy. Its hillside setting and private gardens make it a lovely spot for drinks outside but it is also conveniently close to the hustle and bustle of Truro's shops, bars and restaurants. We love the bridal suite right at the top of the stately wooden staircase which has tip top views of the city, a wonderful four poster bed, and a comfy sitting area perfect for cuddling and sipping champers.
The huge pastel pink and white confection that is the Imperial Llandudno sits proudly on the promenade in this North Wales Victorian seaside town and has been a landmark meeting point for generations. Inside expect period living mixed with modern luxuries – afternoon tea bathed in sunlight on the terrace makes a perfect reward for a brisk 20 lengths in the indoor pool. And we haven't mentioned the sea views yet – watching the waves crashing over Llandudno Bay from the warmth of your bedroom is a delicious feeling. We like the popular restaurant Bantreys which sits right on the seafront and is perfect for fresh fish lunches and people watching.
This St Peter's Port bolthole is a design-fan's dream. Every space has been pored over to decide how best to present it and you'll be hard pushed to find a more flamboyant, decadent setting for your Guernsey holiday. The Leopard Room Bar lives up to its name with a wonderful riot of animal prints and stripes dominating (do try the killer cocktails), while the restaurant next to it is dotted with marble busts of stately-looking leopards, giant paintings of Victorian hunters and giant urns and pots. The bedrooms continue the design theme with fabulous bold prints in deep cerise, royal blue and creamy white with Victorian mirrors and theatrical posies of flowers everywhere. Add to all that a gorgeous terrace pool and service that makes guests return time and again and this chic little spot gives the island's rival hotels a real run for their money.
A former 17th century hunting lodge, the Speech House Hotel has lost none of its rural charm with oak-beamed ceilings, stags heads, classic oil paintings and old studded leather seats setting the tone. It's deep in the heart of the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire with cosy rooms (we love the one with a thick oak four poster and quirky birdcage wallpaper) and a simply lovely garden area out back for the kids to explore while you sip on something refreshing on the terrace. The surrounding countryside itself means you are in walking and hiking paradise with the blissful Wye snaking quietly through undulating fields and shady woodland.
With the world-famous Gleneagles only 5k away, Duchally Country Estate in Scotland is a magnet for golfers. But you don't need to have the slightest interest in tee-times and putting ranges to enjoy this sprawling Perth and Kinross idyll. You can stay in the main building where bedrooms are tastefully themed in traditional Scottish décor or get your own lodge in the grounds with three bedrooms to play with. Leisure facilities are amazing – there's an indoor heated pool (and separate kids' pool) with gym, sauna, hot tub and steam room nearby plus a great games room with pool table for teens. But our favourite facility? The Whisky Bar which stocks a whopping 39 different types of Scotch Whisky.
Fancy strolling out of your bedroom, down the stairs and through the pretty parterre garden directly in front of the Menai Straits? Or just sitting in a roll-top bath in your bedroom and watching nightfall over the snow-capped mountains in front of you? The chaps at Plas Rhianfa have optimised their spectacular view over the water, creating luxurious bedrooms decorated with flair (try and get the one with the 7ft round bed and lavish raised dressing room) and a pretty self-contained cottage with its own living room, dining room and picture windows overlooking the Menai Strait. In the four acre gardens, don't miss the historic Pavilion and Tea Room.
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