Bovey Castle

Not just any old castle, but a lovingly restored Art Deco revival; which means that Bovey Castle is rich with classic character, but a little less precious than some of England’s museum-piece castle hotels. This one is meant to be inhabited, not just seen — it’s no less devoted to its theme, but the fact that the interiors are a modern re-creation somehow sends the message that you won’t be scolded for leaving fingerprints.

The full name of the place these days is Bovey Castle Luxury Hotel & Sporting Estate, which may be a bit wordy but pretty well sums it up. Bedrooms are beyond comfortable, with views of the grounds and gardens, and luxurious black-and-white Deco bathrooms come stocked with Elemis products. Outside the main castle building fourteen granite lodges offer another level of privacy, and kitchens to boot.

There’s a full-service spa, complete with fitness center and both indoor and outdoor pools. This, along with the golf course, comprises the “sporting estate” portion of Bovey’s entertainment — the course, designed in the Twenties by JF Abercromby, is as traditional as they come. And here the sporting life is associated with a great deal of lounging; the castle’s public spaces are exquisite, from innumerable salons and drawing rooms down to the Palm Court dining room.

How to get there: Bovey Castle is approximately a 45-minute drive from Exeter International Airport (EXT).