Posh country retreats in the UK

Babington House
Near Frome
Somerset
Tel: 01373 812 266
www.babingtonhouse.co.uk

The scene: Kiddie-friendly Georgian mansion in the Somerset countryside
Ideal for: Well-oiled London bohos kicking back in their wellies

The country arm of London's trendy Soho House offers 28 rooms divided between the main house, coach house and the stable block, all of which sport leather sofas, DVD players, hi-fis and free-standing baths. Marmite and ketchup bottles on all the breakfast tables are aimed at kids and nostalgic adults, while the Cowshed houses a spa with indoor and outdoor pools. A bit like staying with friends in the country - if you have extremely high falutin' friends, that is.

The Waterside Inn
Ferry Road
Bray
Berkshire
Tel: 01628 620 691
www.relaischateaux.com/waterside

The scene: Picturesque 16th-century village - could be mistaken for France-on-Thames
Ideal for: Gastro-maniacs and illicit lovers

This inn is owned and run by Michel Roux - one half of the duo behind top London restaurant Le Gavroche. Waterside Inn nestles under a willow on the banks of the river, a stone's throw from Eton, Ascot and Windsor Castle. The nine-room hotel also has a private dining room in a separate cottage for the ultimate in intimacy. Leave room for Michel's legendary desserts before retiring to your boudoir.

Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons
Church Road
Great Milton, Oxford
Tel: 01844 277 201
www.manoir.com

The scene: Gallic cool in the middle of the commuter belt
Ideal for: Gourmet-loving Francophiles

A 15th-century manor houses this immaculate 32-room hotel and its 2-Michelin-starred restaurant presided over by big cheese Raymond Blanc, who also runs an Ecole de Cuisine on the premises. Most of the herbs and vegetables come from Blanc's own kitchen garden. Understated, chic and decidedly French, much like the handsome chef himself.