Whatley Manor

This impressive Cotswold-stone country house has been lovingly renovated by its Swiss owners to provide the highest levels of luxury. Set amid 12 acres of gardens, meadows and woodland, it's designed to soothe and restore, with luxurious furnishings and fabrics, beautiful gardens and a magnificent spa, complemented by professional yet understated service. Diners can choose between Le Mazot (named after and reflecting the old-fashioned Swiss mountain chalet) - the more informal brasserie open for lunch and dinner (though suitably sophisticated in its own right with an appealing menu), and the Dining Room - the dinner-only fine-dining option which has recently been refurbished to create a more contemporary feel. Soft yellow walls contrast with brightly-coloured chairs and strand-woven bamboo flooring, while the use of mirrors and subtle spot lighting adds to the ambience and blown-glass chandeliers create a focal point. The cuisine is classic French with a contemporary theme, focusing on top-class produce, and, like everything else here, luxury. Light, complex, beautifully presented dishes are delivered via a fixed-price carte and tasting option. You might start with a lovely dish of hand-dived scallops, perfectly cooked, and served with brown shrimps glazed in their own stock and a light parsley foam, and follow with contre fillet of veal caramelised in herbs and butter, with slow-braised cheek, hazelnut purée and roasted ceps. Winter truffle ice cream dressed with lightly creamed roquefort, deep-fried goat's cheese with candied walnut makes an intriguing dessert. Ancillaries like canapés, amuse-bouche, pre-desserts, breads and petits fours all hold top form too, complemented by a notable wine list.

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Nearest station: Chippenham

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