Hambleton Hall

Set in sweeping landscaped grounds overlooking Rutland Water, Hambleton Hall remains the epitome of the English country-house hotel. Established in 1980 by Tim and Stefa Hart, Hambleton weaves its spell and bestows an immediate impression of relaxation and confidence that everything will run with absolute aplomb. All the sophisticated, traditional comforts are here, from deep-cushioned sofas and log fires to magazines to peruse in the spacious, elegant drawing room over aperitifs. The dining room is intimate and comfortable and comes dressed in warm traditional colours with crisp white linen, fresh flowers, heavy brocade drapes and oil paintings, enhanced by the lovely backdrop of the garden and lake. Service is professional and friendly and the wine list appropriately extensive, while chef Aaron Patterson's inspired cooking delivers a superb, subtly modern take on classic country-house cooking. His style echoes that of his mentor, Raymond Blanc, in its focus on the finest quality produce, seasonality and clarity of flavour, together with the use of the freshest vegetables, herbs and salads from the hotel's own kitchen garden. Local game is a speciality, while luxury items pepper the sophisticated repertoire of fixed-price menus where technical excellence reigns supreme. The menu might start with ballotine of foie gras with spiced pineapple and pistachio nuts. Main courses may offer poached fillet of sea bass with tempura fried langoustines, hazelnuts and chervil root purée, or roast breast of Goosnargh duck with caramelised endive and white raisins. Finish with black Périgord truffle and white chocolate ice cream or chocolate and olive oil truffle with salted caramel, pistachios and baked banana.

8m W of A1 Stamford junct (A606), 3m E of Oakham
Nearest station: Oakham

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