Riverside House

Ashford-in-the-Water, Nr Bakewell, Derbyshire

This graceful Georgian mansion nestles peacefully on the banks of the rive Wye in one of the Peak District’s most picturesque villages. It is an intimate gem of a country hotel, a tranquil rural retreat in the finest traditions of classic hospitality and friendliness. Small and ivy-clad, Riverside House sits majestically in the heart of secluded grounds that feature exquisite landscaped gardens. Elegance, intimacy and informality abound within its interior. Individually designed en suite bedrooms have their own distinctive character and are comfortably and delightfully furnished with rich fabrics and antique pieces. Guests can enjoy a distinctive fusion of modern English, International and local cuisine in the excellent 2 AA Rosette awarded restaurant where service is of the highest quality.

Price Guide: Single £85 - £125, Double/twin £115 - £150.

Facilities: 15 bedrooms, access for wheelchairs, children welcome over 10 yrs, four post bedroom, croquet lawn, fishing can be arranged, golf course nearby, shooting can be arranged, riding can be arranged.

Fischer’s

Baslow Hall, Calver Road, Baslow, Derbyshire

Situated on the edge of the magnificent Chatsworth Estate, Baslow Hall enjoys an enviable location surrounded by some of the country’s finest stately homes and within easy reach of the Peak District’s many cultural and historical attractions. Standing at the end of a winding chestnut tree-lined driveway, this fine Derbyshire manor house was tastefully converted into an award-winning country house hotel in 1989. It is a welcome change to find a place that feels less like a hotel and more like a home, combining comfort and character with an eating experience which is a delight to the palate.

Price Guide: Single £100 - £120, Double/twin £120 - £180, Suite £150.

Facilities: 11 bedrooms, quiet location, chef-patron, children welcome over 10 years old, isdn/modern point in all bedrooms, non-smoking bedrooms, fishing can be arranged.

The Greenway

Shurdington, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 4UG

The Greenway is an Elizabethan country house with a style that is uniquely its own – very individual and very special. Renowned for the warmth of its welcome, its friendly atmosphere and its immaculate personal service. The public rooms with their antique furniture and fresh flowers are elegant and spacious, with roaring log fires in winter and access to the formal gardens in summer. The award-winning conservatory dining room overlooks the sunken garden, providing the perfect backdrop to superb cuisine of international appeal complemented by an outstanding selection of wines.

Price Guide: Single from £99, Double/twin £150 - £240.

Facilities: 21 bedrooms, access for wheelchairs, children welcome, four post bedroom cable/satellite tv in all bedrooms, non-smoking bedrooms, croquet lawn, fishing can be arranged, golf course nearby, shooting can be arranged, riding can be arranged helicopter landing pad.