The Greenway Hotel & Spa, Cheltenham, Cotswolds

The approach to the hotel may not be the most inspiring - but then you twist down a driveway to find this old manor house backing onto lovely countryside. Set within eight-acre grounds, The Greenway is in the busy village of Shurdington on the outskirts of Cheltenham.

Crickley Hill rises up behind the hotel, while Cheltenham Racecourse is about a 20-minute drive away.

By car: around 45 minutes from Bristol, over an hour from Oxford and 2 hours 15 minutes from London. Free on-site parking available.

By train: London Paddington to Cheltenham takes about 1 hour 45 minutes, after which, a taxi takes 20 minutes. Book trains to Cheltenham.

The oldest part of the manor house dates from the Elizabethan era. With a traditional country-house hotel feel, you'll find cosy lounges and large draped curtains, while the equestrian prints on the walls are a nod to nearby Cheltenham Racecourse.

Charming staff are both friendly and welcoming. The garden is delightful - with a croquet lawn, lily pond and terrace.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Terrace
• Garden
• Swimming pool
• Spa
• Wellness suite
• Pet-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi
• Free parking

The bedrooms are dotted around the property, in the main building, the adjoining old coach house and the gatehouse lodge at the start of the drive. Bathrooms are varied, some have tubs and powerful showers, while othere are slightly tired, with showers over the bath.

Room types: Classic, Classic Lodge, Superior, Deluxe, Master, Feature Suite, Master Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with ESPA toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, tea and coffee-making facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi

The Garden Room restaurant will delight dedicated foodies, with inventive menus in a more formal setting. Try the lamb, ewe's curd, anchovies and lychee and lavender jelly. The spa café presents a choice of lighter brunch and lunch options.

The Garden Room: 3 AA Rosettes, contemporary and seasonal menu. Open daily for breakfast and afternoon tea, and Wed-Sun for dinner.

The bar and lounge: sandwiches, salads and larger plates. All-day dining, open daily.