Pass through the gates of Crewe Hall and you'll understand why it's considered to be one of themost stately in the area; a hornbeam tree lined avenue leads guests to the wonderful Jacobean manor house. Features such as a bell tower, an underground maze of tunnels, hand painted wallpapers, and claw feet on the baths make the hotel a thrilling place for a visit. Past guests include King George V, Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth II.

The beautiful Ranulph Restaurant in its comfortable interior offers a 2 AA Rosette menu of British cuisine. Begin your meal with confit duck leg terrine, orange compote and juniper berries and move on to a main course of halibut marinated with rosemary and garlic, goats' cheese and olive mash, with provençal sauce before signing off with hot chocolate fondant.

The Ranulph Restaurant is open for dinner from Tuesday to Saturday evenings and for Sunday lunch. As there are only ten tables, you may well need to reserve yours in advance.