Amid 1,000 acres of historically important gardens, pleasure grounds and woodland, this romantic Elizabethan manor house, built by an ironmaster for his bride, forms an impressive backdrop for Michelin-starred cuisine. 'The food, flowers and ambiance are as glorious as ever,' writes a returning guest. Oak-panelled public rooms with ornate ceilings are filled with antiques; staff are 'effective, friendly, well trained'. 'Within five minutes of arriving by car we and our luggage were in our bedroom, its walls and ceiling painted with quiet images of sky and water.' Bedrooms are 'deeply traditional English', perhaps with dual-aspect windows, a four-poster bed. In the contemporary glass dining room extension, George Blogg's elegant menus feature produce from orchard and kitchen garden in dishes such as cod, native lobster, new potatoes and lettuce, or Sussex lamb, courgette, mint and ewes curd. Outside, flowers overspill borders laid out by William Robinson, pioneer of wild and natural gardening, who lived here until his death in 1935. 'The gardens are increasingly exquisite.' 'A perfect hotel – everything runs smoothly.' Tip from a reader: this Relais & Châteaux hotel allows the first couple to ring each day to enjoy morning coffee there. (Rowena Moore, Frances Thomas, AB, I&F Walsh)