Langar Hall

Langar Hall is the loveliest of places – reason enough to come to Nottinghamshire. It sits at the top of a hardly noticeable hill in glorious parkland, bang next door to the church. The Skirving family arrived 160 years ago, building on the site of Admiral Lord Howe’s burned-down home. Much of what fills the house arrived then and it’s easy to feel intoxicated by statues and busts in the pillared dining room, ancient tomes overflowing from bookshelves, an eclectic collection of art. Lila – Imogen’s granddaughter – is now in charge, and very much following in her grandmother’s footsteps; Langar remains a quirky country house with charming staff and a touch of bohemian flair. Bedrooms are lovely, some resplendent with antiques, others with beautiful wallpapers or a grand four-poster. As for dinner, it’s a big treat, perhaps wild turbot with mussels and dill, Belvoir pheasant with cider and thyme, rhubarb soufflé with ginger beer sorbet. There’s a cocktail bar, a conservatory, a flower-filled terrace for afternoon tea in summer, then beautiful gardens that delight. One of a kind.