Place to stay: Fishmore Hall

Fishmore Hall is a perfect kind of retreat. A boutique hotel just off the beaten path but still within striking distance of some small town civilisation, should you fancy it.

Located just a mile outside of Ludlow in the most peaceful of settings, there are several reasons it’s a draw for the wedding parties and large groups celebrations as well as those on a weekend getaway.

All Gould: Head chef, Joe Gould

First, there is the sublime spa and second, it’s also a foodie paradise served by an excellent restaurant, led by chef Joe Gould who plates up divine dishes with some serious elan — sourced locally, naturlich.

The entrance to the Georgian mansion leads you immediately into a large airy reception where you are greeted warmly at reception.

The restaurant and bar area are all on the ground floor, and the latter is ideal for those who want to keep it simple for breakfast, lunch or a quick treat in the form of afternoon tea.

Fishmore was just awarded three AA rosettes and you can see why as the whole vibe at Fishmore screams (sotto voce of course) laid back and relaxed. Perhaps its down to the other star attraction — the spa. All blond wood, surrounded by glass but contrastingly warm and cosy once you’re ensconced in a treatment room.

Swimsuits at the ready

Top tip: bring your swimming costume. The Spa is seriously alluring particularly on a sunny day when you may want to dawdle. I had been gifted a Spa Day at the Hall and had two great services: I melted after a deep tissue massage, was then gathered up and deposited into the sauna. I triangulated between the sauna, lounge area and steam room or an hour. There is a hot tub to soak in under the stars, but I didn’t have time to give it a try.

I was hard pressed to leave the Spa but eventually, I managed to scoop myself up and out, propelled by hunger. All assuaged with an order of the best beetroot and egg salad sandwich I have ever tasted along with a cup of coffee, sitting in the sunniest spot of the Spa reception area. Bliss.

Find your way to Fishmore Hall, there are 15 luxuriously elegant rooms to choose from, go posh and choose one with the bath. Or get your plans in order for Christmas and New Year, bookings have already started. A little R&R awaits.

For more information on Fishmore Hall Hotel and Spa visit: https://www.fishmorehall.co.uk/ or

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