Cowley Manor

55 acres of land, billiards room, spa (the C-Side) with four treatment rooms, gym, sauna.

Bring your running kit, if you fancy scenic cross-country jogs. In June and July, a Panama hat and a few linen shirts wouldn't go amiss; year round, pack your waterproofs: the English weather is notoriously unpredictable.

All ages are welcome. Extra beds (£60 a night) are for under-16s only; the charge includes Continental breakfast and a two-course dinner from the kids' menu. The hotel is very accommodating of mums-to-be, who get a pregnancy pillow and gift on arrival.

The gorgeous C-Side spa uses all natural, organic products, including unguents by eco-friendly Pink's Boutique and EmerginC, which plants a tree for every product, and even the water is from a nearby Cowley spring. Treatments are designed by award-winning therapist Michelle Roques-O'Neil, and are exclusive to Cowley – so you won't find their facials or massages anywhere else. We're particularly partial to a 'Cloud 9' massage, which combines aromatherapy and reflexology in a heavenly, 90-minute treatment. Pregnancy treatments have been created exclusively for C-Side by Pink's Boutique. If you're feeling spritely, try one of the fitness classes: there's 'rebel yoga' (much more fun than the usual, hushed version), 'bootcamp' sessions and aqua aerobics.

There are two pools: a 17m, slate-lined indoor pool and an elegant outdoor pool with a bar, waiter service and rows of sleek sun loungers. Both are heated year round.

CD and DVD library. Wellington boots are provided. Two-night minimum stay at weekends. Some rooms are suitable for guests with mobility issues; please ask the Smith24 Team when booking.
On sunny, English afternoons, keep the waddling ducks company and have tea on the terrace overlooking the lake. If even this sounds like too much effort for a lazy holiday, seek out one of the hammocks in the grounds for a spot of well-deserved shut-eye.