Ye Olde Bell Hotel & Spa

Ye Olde Bell is a 17th-century former coaching inn halfway between London and Edinburgh, but things have moved on from the time when Ralph Thoresby became lost on horseback on his journey to London and begged a room. Today, in the committed ownership of Paul and Hilary Levack, the hotel blends striking reception rooms, luxurious bedrooms, AA Rosette dining and one of the country’s most impressive spas, plus the character you’d expect from a historic building. The 59 bedrooms, suites and lodges have been individually designed – think oak panelling, antique furniture, gorgeous fabrics, grand beds, plus 21st-century comforts. Downstairs, the stylish Art Deco Restaurant Bar 1650 and lively St Leger Bistro both specialise in fresh, seasonal food (in the summer, guests can also eat and drink al fresco on the lovely Mediterranean terrace or in the garden). The spa offers exceptional personalised treatments and a dedicated thermal area with a startling snowstorm experience, stonebath steam room, herbal laconium, indoor sunlight therapy and an invigorating indoor-outdoor vitality pool.

Rates: Doubles from £195

Contact: +44 (0)1777 705121

Website: yeoldebell-hotel.co.uk