The attractive Greenwoods Hotel is housed in a Grade II listed, 17th century manor house in the village of Stock in Essex, but is just a few miles away only from Chelmsford and Billericay. The chandeliers, mirrors and ornate drapery at the Rosewood restaurant are in keeping with the dignified sophistication of the hotel.

Rosewood beckons diners with the promise of classic English cooking with Mediterranean touches, so first off a papaya, apricot and blue cheese salad with passion fruit dressing may capture your interest. Choosing a main course may not be that easy considering the number of alternatives on offer ranging from loin of lamb filled with fig, honey and sage stuffing, and salmon and basil in spring roll pastry, to chicken wrapped in Serrano ham served with a ramekin of wild rice and aubergine lasagne.

Once you've satisfied your culinary curiosity step into the spa for an invigorating monsoon shower and retire to one of their bedrooms equipped with cosy antique beds.