The Retreat, Elcot Park in Newbury (Berkshire), England

The Retreat, Elcot Park sits in 16 acres of grounds that include a walled working garden, a tennis court, and a croquet lawn. The heated outdoor infinity pool is open year-round, and the property also offers a children's zone and a mixed-use courtyard with a deli and a hair salon. Guests can borrow complimentary wellies for mapped local walks or hire electric bikes (requires a motorbike/moped licence) to explore the Kennet Valley views.

Yu, the pan-Asian restaurant, serves a tasting menu on select evenings (Thursday to Sunday) and requires advance booking. 1772, the all-day Brasserie, offers dishes from a Sunday roast to a plant-based menu, with views across the Kennet valley. The Courtyard Café provides lighter fare and takeaway options, and each floor features a complimentary pantry stocked with snacks, fruit, and soft drinks.

The Signet Spa houses a hydrotherapy pool, treatment rooms, a steam room, sauna, and a gym with a spin studio. Outdoor wood-fired hot tubs and a relaxation area complement the indoor facilities, and spa/wellness packages include full-body massages. The spa is open to hotel guests from 2pm on check-in day until 12pm on check-out day, and pre-booked fitness classes such as yoga and Pilates are available.

The hotel offers 55 individually-styled bedrooms and suites, including Heritage rooms, Wessex rooms, and the Sutton Suite. Some rooms have views of the Kennet valley or direct access to outside terraces, and the Beech self-contained holiday let includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a log burner. Rooms come with a complimentary welcome drink, a pantry on each floor, and a bag of homemade cookies hung on the door.

Families have access to a children's zone, board games, a games room, and kids' meals in the restaurants. The hotel provides tailored dog-friendly services: pet beds, bowls, toys, and poo bags in the room, plus outside terrace access. Electric vehicle charging stations, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk are available for all guests.

Historic link: Former family home of poet Percy Shelley

Grounds: 16 acres with tennis court, croquet lawn, walled garden

Dining: Pan-Asian tasting menu at Yu, all-day dining at 1772

Wellness: Signet Spa with hydrotherapy pool & wood-fired hot tubs

Rooms: 55 individually-styled bedrooms & suites, plus self-catering Beech

Extras: Complimentary pantry, free wellies, electric bike hire

Pet policy: Dedicated dog amenities & outdoor terrace access