Bindon Country House, Somerset

Langford Budville, Wellington, Somerset.

Arriving at the wisteria and jasmine clad Bindon House, it’s easy to forget about the stresses and strains of modern life. The elegant Baroque folly and its seven acres of lush woodland and formal gardens has a fairytale quality that combined with its brilliant facilities and very convenient location, just five miles from the M5 (J26), makes it an inspired choice for a group getaway or chic celebration. Up to 24 adults and six children can be accommodated in its 12 sumptuous en-suite bedrooms, which are more vintage than contemporary in style.

Work up an appetite on the all-weather tennis court, croquet lawn, in the outdoor heated pool, or by exploring the beautiful grounds and the adjacent 220 acre Somerset Trust Nature Reserve, before heading indoors to the opulent bedrooms to prepare for pre-dinner drinks on the sunny terrace or in front of a roaring fire in the cosy and romantic lounge followed by a mouth-watering dinner created by chef Mike Davies. A protégée of TV’s Phil Vickerey, Mike's freshly prepared, locally sourced, best of modern British cooking has earned well deserved acclaim. The warm sticky toffee pudding with Devonshire clotted cream has guests rebooking on the spot! After dinner relax on the terrace or, in winter months, in front of one of the blazing log fires or simply retreat to one of the sumptuous four poster beds.