Combe Grove Hotel

Surrounded by 69 acres of lush gardens and woodlands, the views from the Combe Grove Manor Hotel are a definite scene-stealer. The traditional Georgian manor has gray stone walls, vine-covered pergolas, manicured trees, and pebbled walkways that provide a serene environment whether guests are taking a stroll or sitting in one of the many outdoor seating areas on the grounds. The main lobby and entrance hall have a traditional English-country feel but with a contemporary spin. The light gray color of the floral printed walls, and furniture in shades of eggplant, gray, and chartreuse provide a sophisticated splash of color and a fresh take on more classical decor. A living room area includes elegant gold chandeliers, a white mantle fireplace, and cluster of historical photos hanging on the wall. While the larger common areas are elegant and well-suited to the hotel, some spots look a little dated and could benefit from a renovation. The hotel has a quiet and relaxing atmosphere. There are plenty of families, but the clientele definitely skews a bit older, likely due to certain restrictions on children.

The Combe Grove Manor Hotel is located in Limpley Stoke Valley, about a 10-minute drive from downtown Bath, which is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's located right off a quiet, windy country road --there isn't anything around the hotel within walking distance, but there's a lot to visit within a short drive. It's a three-minute drive to the University of Bath, and a four-minute drive to Prior Park Landscape Garden. The Roman Baths and Thermae Bath Spa, Bath Abbey, and Royal Crescent are within a 12-minute drive. Stonehenge is within a 45-minute drive, as is the Bristol International Airport. Self-parking at the hotel is free.

The 42 rooms and suites at Combe Grove Manor are comfortable and clean, although the decor feels a bit outdated and shows some wear and tear. The best rooms are the Suites and Manor Deluxe Double which are both located within the Manor house and have king-size beds. The decor in these rooms is a bit more contemporary, with plush, eggplant velvet bed throws and window seats, chartreuse pillows, and dark wood furniture. The rooms are spacious and could actually benefit from more furniture to prevent them from looking as empty as they do. The views from the front rooms are spectacular -- green as far as the eye can see. The rooms at the back are located right above the road, but guests can see the pasture behind it. Bathrooms are simple, with tiled floors and walls, modern tubs, showers, and bidets. The Family Room, Garden Lodge Double, and Garden Lodge Twin are all located in the Garden Lodge building, which is separate from the main Manor House. Emerald Green carpets with green bedding and curtains, and simple wood furniture seem tired and dated, but the rooms all have private balconies overlooking either the front grounds or the back road. All the rooms include safes, flat-screen TVs, and coffee- and tea-making facilities. Gilchrist & Soames toiletries are a luxe touch in the bathroom.

The hotel offers a variety of country club inspired amenities. The gorgeous spa center offers a range of treatments, Turkish baths, a sauna, steam room, and a sun terrace so guests can unwind and truly relax. Those who want to keep fit can use the expansive fitness center, which is located in a large room with mirrored walls, mats, various machines, and free weights. There's also a fitness studio with floor-to-ceiling windows, stationary bikes, and punching bags. Guests can stay active at the indoor and outdoor tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools, as well as on the 16-bay driving range. There are two main dining choices at the hotel. First, there is a formal dining room, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner -- note that there is a cutoff time for children in the evening. For more casual fare, guests can enjoy the bar and brasserie located in the domed Manor cellars, which offers small bites and cocktails. Twenty-four-hour room service is a nice touch.