HOTEL BREAKS FOR STRESSED PARENTS

This grand country house hotel has set the scene for blockbusters including Four Weddings and a Funeral, Eyes Wide Shut and The World is Not Enough... even Ali G has made an appearance at the Hoo. Its stately feel and opulent decor ensures that every guest at the hotel feels like a movie star. The enormous suites feature four poster beds, walk-in wardrobe, Jacuzzi baths and Molton Brown toiletries not to mention striking views of the ornate gardens which are perfect for a romantic stroll before dinner. So shed the Mum badge and instead feel like Marilyn Monroe for the evening.

Just minutes from the golden shores of the award-winning beach at Holkham, The Victoria hotel is perfectly located for discovering the area's dramatic windswept tidelines, labyrinth of creeks and miles of sandy dunes. The bohemian hotel has a truly boutique feel with individually designed rooms featuring exotic fabrics, rich colours and unusual knick-knacks from around the globe. In summer enjoy a local alfresco bitter overlooking the pinewoods or in winter cosy up by their roaring log fire before bed.

Once frequented by Louis XVIII, the exiled King of France, Hartwell House's Grade I listed building is crammed with old world charm, with Rococo ceilings, traditional paintings and antiques galore. Perfectly located for exploring the beautiful Cotswolds and the Chiltern Hills it is a hiker's dream with endless country walks just a stone throw away. Its Jacobean and Georgian façade is surrounded by 90 acres of manicured gardens and parkland which is open to hotel guests.

Has this summer left you feeling like a teenager's taxi service? Then head to The Vineyard at Stockcross for a weekend of marinating. Yes, this hotel is like a little bit of California… in Berkshire. It has a staggering 30,000 vintages from around the world to choose from. It is the unique combination of a fantastic 5* hotel, a delicious French restaurant and a world-class wine cellar that makes this a must visit destination for those that know their Malbec from their Merlot (and if you don't then book in for one of their tasting lessons!).

Penny Hill Park's spa is one of the UK's few true destination spas. With eight swimming pools (including the Ballroom Pool, complete with underwater music!), an ice cave, herbal saunas, massage chairs and pretty much anything else tired parents could wish for it is the ultimate place for a pamper session. After you have relaxed with one of their restorative massages, head to the nail bar to be perfectly polished for dinner in their Michelin-starred restaurant.