Escape the City: Gidleigh Park, Dartmoor

Perched on the edge of Dartmoor, and set in the most magical spot on the banks of the bubbling river Teign, in 107 acres of gardens and moody Devon woodland, Tudor-style Gidleigh is one of the great English country hotels.

Owned by Andrew and Christina Brownsword since 2005, the family’s love of the five-star, 24-room hotel is evident throughout. Each room is individually decorated in lustrous country-house style — with our dusty pink quarters — Mrs Brownsword’s favourite colour — featuring a huge bed, walk in shower and gorgeous free-standing bath overlooking the woodlands.

Minibars are stocked with complimentary Madeira wine in the winter, and there are robes, slippers, umbrella and waterproof jacket should you wish to venture out. Dogs are welcome with heated kennels, dog biscuits, toys and warm blankets provided.

Gidleigh has a long and esteemed culinary history and is on the prestigious 2019 AA Notable Wine List. Previous owner Kay Henderson achieved a Michelin star in 1981, with Michael Caines (two stars), Michael Wignall (two stars) and Chris Simpson (one star) all receiving their accolades while heading up Gidleigh’s kitchen and 50-cover dining room.

Magical spot: Gidleigh Park, on the banks of the Teign, is on the 2019 AA Notable Wine List (Gidleigh Park/Mark Bolton Photography)

We opted for the blow-out, seven-course tasting supper (£145 per head including coffee and sweet treats) created by Michelin-starred chef Chris Eden. The menu changes regularly, but our feast was a whistlestop tour of seasonal and local produce finished with elegant style. Eden won a star at Driftwood in Portscatho, Cornwall, and will no doubt be awarded one again when Michelin reveal their 2020 list in October.

The menu is a tour of local produce (Gidleigh Park)

Remote and romantic, set in 107 acres of grounds, Gidleigh is a very special hotel to enjoy a quiet short break reading books by the fire, going on wet walks and sampling outstanding gastronomy. It would also be a wonderful summer jaunt, with its tennis courts and putting course. A truly special hotel for any occasion.

Details: Gidleigh Park

Exeter St David’s is just over two hours by train from Paddington from £19. Gidleigh Park can arrange transfers for approx £70 each way, 40 minutes. Double rooms available from £248 per night on a bed and breakfast basis. Gidleigh Park, Chagford, TQ13 8HH; gidleigh.co.uk