This restored 17th-century manor house in large gardens has a bistro restaurant and a spa with 20-metre indoor pool, a gym, steam rooms, saunas and treatments.

Greenwoods is a few miles from Chelmsford and Billericay, and a 45-minute drive from Stansted Airport.

Ellis's Restaurant serves English dishes with a Mediterranean influence. The bar is a relaxing space with cosy fires and a bar menu.

Bedrooms at Greenwoods Hotel Spa & Retreat are traditional yet stylish and have marble bathrooms and luxurious soft furnishings.