Alexander House & Utopia Spa (Restaurant)

This 17th-century mansion set in 175 acres of Sussex parkland was once home to the poet Shelley. He'd hardly recognise the place now with its trendy “Reflections” brasserie and al fresco dining “Flames” courtyard. He might feel more at home in the elegant fine dining restaurant with its well spaced tables covered with linen and calming views of the grounds. The modern menu takes its inspiration from across Europe and might include a French-style starter of orange scented diver scallops with braised endive, wild mushrooms and celeriac essence and a Mediterranean main course of roasted rack of lamb with a timbale of cous-cous, ratatouille and sauce Nicoise.