Sleek elegance in the Cotswolds

Our en suite bathroom had a power shower and deep bath and was stocked with Gilchrist & Soames toiletries. We also had cosy, fluffy robes to mooch about in, and we donned these before heading off to the spa.

Enjoying a facial
The spa is also a new addition to the hotel and has six treatment rooms, two nail bars and a marble steam and sauna. Unfortunately there isn't a pool or water feature of any kind, so it's not the type of spa you linger in. However, the treatment rooms were warm and clean and the therapists who greeted us seemed knowledgeable and friendly.

Winter always takes its toll on my skin, leaving it blotchy and grey, so we'd booked Elemis facials. After a quick consultation to determine our skin types, Joanna and I were invited into a candlelit, dual treatment room and wrapped in cosy towels. The facial itself was lovely, starting with a quick foot massage, before hot compresses were pressed on to our faces. After being cleansed, toned and moisturised, our arms, backs and necks were also gently massaged, allowing us to gently drift off into a semi-comatose state. The hour passed really quickly, and we both left with a fresh glow on our cheeks, and much better looking skin.

Wining and dining
We returned to our rooms and had a quick doze - just to let all the oils soak in, you understand - before heading to the bar for a pre-dinner vodka. Once again, I was taken by the mix of contemporary, and very comfy, furniture and the grand scale of the rooms. We were dining in the hotel's award-winning restaurant and sampled tasty aperitifs as we perused the menu. It was disappointing to note that of the five main course choices, there was no vegetarian option, although a stilton and spinach tartlet was available on request. I had the local lamb served with saute potatoes, which was absolutely delicious.

wyckhillhouse is a lovely place to stay if you want to enjoy chilled elegance in a relaxed atmosphere. We saw many young couples there, and they all seemed to be enjoying their stay. Celebrity guests have included Cameron Diaz and Jude Law, although neither were there while we were!

It's a great location for exploring the surrounding Cotswolds, or if you fancy playing to the 'Country Squire' image, the hotel can arrange clay pigeon shoots or archery contests. But if you're expecting a spa experience, I think you'd be disappointed that there is no pool.

Room rates start at £180.25 for a standard double including VAT and a full English breakfast.

Nichehotels are dog friendly, so if you want to take your pooch with you, it'll be well looked after with bed, biscuits and bowl provided.

For more information about wyckhillhouse hotel, go to www.wyckhillhouse.com

wyckhillhouse hotel
Stow-on-the-Wold
Gloucester
GL54 1HY
Tel: 01451 831 936

What to do in the Cotswolds

Take the kids to the Cotswold Wildlife Park, where you can feed the penguins and watch birds of prey demonstrations. For more information visit www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk

Visit Snowshill Manor, a National Trust property that was once the home of Charles Paget Wade. Explore the house and gardens and discover many of the treasures collected by the architect and craftsman. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Batsford Arboretum is known as one of the jewels of the Cotswolds and is home to one of the largest private collections of trees and shrubs in the country. Visit in spring and enjoy the magnolia and flowering cherries. Admission is £6 for adults and £2 for children. For more information visit www.batsarb.co.uk

History buffs will enjoy a day at Blenheim Palace, home of the duke of Marlborough and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. You can explore the palace, park and gardens of this World Heritage site. There are regular events including jousting competitions, concerts and craft fairs. For more information visit www.blenheimpalace.com