A dazzling film set of a house and garden.

Built in the 1890s later home to the Reitlinger Museum and its Egyptian Persian and Greek artefacts it now houses Sandy Colin a canny collection of Victoriana and some deeply indulged guests.Bedrooms are packed with gleaming wood elegant watercolours vintage fabrics wooden floors and old knick-knacks: one of the baths has a modesty canopy and there are fine river views from most.There isnt a reason to feel tense but just in case you do theres a serious relaxation room for massage reiki hot stone massage and a whole raft of other beauty treatments.The Great Hall is striking with its turquoise woodwork and vast windows.

Communal breakfasts offer local organic sausages and bacon as well as Jack Daniels marmalade.

In summer you can decamp to the garden and watch rowers and swans glide by.The river Thames idles past the bottom of the sweeping lawns and the Waterside Inn and The Fat Duck at Bray both 3 Michelin star restaurants are