Address: Hinton Charterhouse, Bath BA2 7TB.

Tel: 01225 723731.

Link: homewoodpark.com.

First impressions: Breathe a sigh of relief as you emerge from the traffic jams of the Bath circulatory system and arrive in 10 acres of parkland and gardens. The first sight of the croquet lawn and gravel drive will soothe the stress of the last hour on the A46.

What are the rooms like? Shabby chic rather than showy, with the emphasis on space and comfort rather than glitteringly modern. But on a winter break, you'll enjoy the various lounges and bars with their log fires and views over the grounds.

The bed test: Functional and appropriate to a country house.

The bathroom: Glorious freestanding bath with enough hot water to spend the entire weekend bathing in Molton Brown's finest unguents, should that be your thing. Obligatory bathrobes and shoe-shining kits included.

The restaurant: Homewood Park's big selling point is its Michelin-starred kitchen, run by Andrew Hamer. So good (and at £38 for the set menu, reasonably priced), you'll want dinner on Saturday night and Sunday roast for lunch as well.

What is there to see within walking distance? The area immediately surrounding the hotel, Limpley Stoke valley, is designated one of outstanding natural beauty, and it lives up to the label. It's stunning.

Within driving distance? Well there's Bath. It wasn't so much a drive as a queue, though. Longleat and Stonehenge are eminently reachable.

How much a night? From £109 for a single to £250 for a suite, including breakfast, newspapers etc. Call or check the website for details of the special winter deals, which include à la carte dinner in the restaurant.