There’s more than a whiff of Downton Abbey about this magnificent old country house on the edge of the Peak District, with its elegant proportions, ornamental gardens and long views. Inside,
top-quality chintz, dark oak panelling and chaises longues create a deeply traditional, five-star vibe without it feeling too self-important. And there’s ample comfort to be had from an old-school
menu executed by a posse of chefs properly trained in the classics: grapefruit cocktail or the classic medley of salmon, apple and crab Marie Rose might give way to trout meunière with almonds or
entrecôte steak with green peppercorn sauce. There’s an ocean of starched white linen in the graceful dining room, while solicitous, attentive service creates an all-embracing sense of ease. And
there are sumptuous rooms upstairs, if you fancy making a night of it.