Top English Country Cottages - 2

Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons

Not first, but very French, Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons near Oxford began as a restaurant in 1984, on an estate dating back to 1225. There now are 14 suites and 18 rooms, each with its own theme, look and even coordinated toiletries. The surprisingly relaxed restaurant has two Michelin stars. Enjoy the sculpture-filled gardens that provide the hotel with produce and flowers nearly year-round. Rates start at ₤410 ($594) from Sun. to Thu.; rates including dinner, from ₤690 ($1,001). www.manoir.com

Stapleford Park

Field sports are the staple at Stapleford Park in Leicestershire. Falconry, shooting, fishing, riding, archery and off-road driving are all practiced on its 500 park-like acres. Other activities include tennis, golf, swimming and a spa. The stately house, parts of which date from the 14th century, has 55 guest rooms. Room rates start at ₤288 ($417); 2-night packages with breakfast and dinner from ₤600 ($870). www.staplefordpark.com

The Horn of Plenty Country House Hotel

Fishing and canoeing the nearby rivers, as well as exploring the garden moors of bucolic Devon are attractions at The Horn of Plenty Country House Hotel. So is its restaurant, which has been named one of the United Kingdom’s top 20, and overlooks the Tamar Valley, a World Heritage Site. Rates for rooms start at ₤120 ($174) from Sun. to Thu. in summer; dinner is an extra ₤60 ($87). www.thehornofplenty.co.uk

 

• The Horn of Plenty Country House lies on four acres of orchards in Devon, England.

Courtesy of The Horn of Plenty

Linthwaite Country House Hotel

A hilltop setting gives Linthwaite Country House Hotel a panoramic view of Lake Windermere. Though the furnishings are traditional, the decor has a contemporary sensibility. Relax near the crackling log fire in the lounge. Four of the 32 guest rooms, new last year, have sybaritic bathrooms. Rates start at ₤190 ($275), but many discounted packages are offered. www.linthwaite.com

The Grove

Just outside London, The Grove hotel is a country house hotel on steroids, with 300 gorgeous acres, a golf course and an underground spa. It is claimed that the English tradition of the weekend house party was invented here when it was the home of the Earls of Clarendon. Now it’s pervaded by an atmosphere of loose—not to say decadent—contemporary luxury. A new wing opened in 2003 brings the count of guest rooms to 227, but from many views is hardly visible. Room rates start at ₤270 ($391) room only; a “Leisure Break” package, including breakfast, starts at ₤274 ($397). www.thegrove.co.uk