The Vineyard at Stockcross, Newbury, United Kingdom

The Vineyard at Stockcross hotel in Newbury is, conveniently, only an hour between London and Bristol. This beloved boutique hotel is a former hunting lodge, and has many of the characteristics of a bucolic inn, but also boasts the luxuries of some of London’s finest deluxe lodgings. Residential appointments fill the lobby, which boasts a grand hearth and plentiful seating. Reception is a breeze, and staff members treat arrivals as if they were old friends.

The facilities

The Vineyard's Michelin-starred restaurant attracts foodies from around the globe. Celebrated chef John Campbell is a notable author and food scientist who designs his menus with the gastronomic palate in mind. Local produce and herbs form the base of the menu at this boutique hotel, and game shot by the chef himself compose most of the entrees. A 2,000-plus bottle wine cellar complements the fine dining.

The boutique hotel's popular spa boasts exotic treatments like chocolate, truffle or wine massages. For more expansive facilities, the sister property Donnington Hotel and Spa offers shuttle service for guests to enjoy its larger pool, gym and spa.

The rooms

The 49 guest rooms at this boutique hotel vary in size and feature amenities like flat-screen TVs, phones, alarm clocks, complimentary non-alcoholic minibars, large work desks with high speed Internet, phones with data ports and voice mail, and DVD players. King or twin beds are lined with soft Frette linens, plump duvets, and overstuffed pillows. Marble baths feature long soaking tubs with a trio of bath oils, shower stalls, hairdryers, authentic chrome fixtures, and Molton Brown toiletries. Terry cloth robes, slippers, and full-length mirrors pamper guests.

Room service runs round the clock, and pets are not allowed. This well-loved boutique hotel in the countrysude is the best in Newbury and the envy of many London properties landlocked by the city’s bustle.