Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel

The Bath Spa hotel has taken to heart the concept of the English country house retreat and produced an experience you won't want to end. Think thick pile carpets, plush upholstery, swagged curtains, croquet (and tennis) on the lawn and five-star treatment. The building, all Greek-revivalist, is a splendid, sumptuous affair overlooking gorgeous landscaped gardens and at just ten minutes from central Bath, it's a great place to treat yourself to a luxurious city break. Special mention must go to the spa which has a really top-notch pool, gym, hydro pool, whirlpool and thermal suite (and is popular with Bath rugby team, apparently). Take pre-dinner drinks in the Colonnade Bar (or the even more private Rotunda) and then head off to award-winning elegant Vellore, the house's former ballroom, which serves classic and modern English (get a terrace table if the weather allows). For afternoon tea or champers, make your way daily to the rather relaxing Drawing Room.