Golf at Headlam Hall

This idyllic country house hotel stands in immaculate walled gardens and is surrounded by its own rolling farmland in picturesque Teesdale. Dating back to the mid-17th century, the Hall has a relaxed feel to it with a blend of stunning period features and subtle interior design to reflect the rural heritage of the property.

 A family-owned, country-house hotel with a relaxed 'weekend in the country' atmosphere – large rooms, newspapers to browse, afternoon tea – brought up to date with a spa, golf and outdoor hot tub. A place for chilling out rather than exploring.

The real charm of this grand country house, with sweeping gardens, terraces, oak panelling and swish spa along with 'a convenient location in a hamlet a few miles from the A1' lies in its warm and informal atmosphere. 'The staff were courteous and friendly, the atmosphere – very much country house – relaxing and congenial,' says one reader. Run by the Robinsons, a local farming family, the creeper-covered 17th-century hall has flagged and polished-wood floors, panelled walls, an orangery brasserie, terraces overlooking walled gardens.