Melanie Bryant spent a weekend in Petworth, the picture-perfect market town in the South Downs that boasts superb shopping, food and one of Britain's greatest country houses.
Weekends away
Bedford Lodge & Spa review: A hunting lodge-turned hotel and spa near the centre of Newmarket
Newmarket's Bedford Lodge & Spa is a ten minute walk from the town centre and a stones throw from the world famous training gallops. Lucy Ford paid a visit.
Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire review: A deeply luxurious hotel that still retains a country-house feel
A grand country estate that's become a fine place to stay, The Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire offers swish opulence and country charm within easy reach of London. Victoria Marston paid…
11 Cadogan Gardens hotel review: An SW3 refuge for the country-house owner dragged into London
In a city where more and more hotels now have the charm and individuality of a suburban shopping centre, 11 Cadogan Gardens promises something rather more cosy. James Fisher paid…
Mousehole: A charming dot on the map perfect for fishing, unwinding and soaking in the Cornish culture
The tiny fishing village of Mousehole, in the farthest reaches of Cornwall, is a charming spot for swimming, spider crab, art and everything in between. James Elwes explores.
10 of the best hotels in Britain to have earned themselves a spot in the latest Good Hotel Guide
Which are the best hotels to come on to the radar in the last 12 months? We asked the editors of the Good Hotel Guide for their favourite new spots.
Bicester Village: A delicate mixture of luxury shopping, teeming crowds and stunning British countryside
Alexandra Fraser visits ‘the Bond Street of Oxfordshire’ and their delectable new Café Wolseley, just in time for the Christmas rush.
Ellenborough Park: A luxury getaway for any country sporting enthusiast
Octavia Pollock takes a trip to Cheltenham to experience the best that this equestrian retreat has to offer.
Gidleigh Park review: Country house hotel perfection in Devon
Gidleigh Park has been on Toby Keel's bucket list for a decade and a half. He finally ticked it off this summer; was it worth the wait?
16 top notch places to stop, just off the motorway
Time was when bright young things would leap into their E-Types and tear up the newly built M1, not so much for the thrill of driving fast as for the…
Chalet Saunton review: A dog-friendly Devonian retreat
Paula Lester is blown away by Chalet Saunton, a contemporary retreat in North Devon situated above a beach that allows dogs all year round.
Tottergill Farm review: Cosy cottages perched spectacularly above the Pennines
If it’s total relaxation, fresh air and the great outdoors you are after on holiday – enjoyed from the comfort of a cosy cottage in tranquil surroundings and with spectacular…
Across Scotland by motorbike: The wonders of Raasay, and the joys of Calum’s Road
This summer, Country Life's Steve Ayres travelled across Scotland by motorbike. This latest instalment of his adventures sees him visit the spectacular island of Raasay, where he finds the island's…
Walking Hadrian’s Wall: An epic walk from coast to coast and back in time
One of Britain’s most famous landmarks makes for an epic walk back in time – and it's a journey that Fiona Reynolds took this summer.
Sark: A dot on the map, a step back in time and an unforgettable, eccentric holiday spot
A skip and a hop over the sea lies the island of Sark, a gem of a place in the Channel Islands which really is a step back in time.
The Mews Suites at Sopwell House review: A private idyll just outside London
I’ve always fancied myself living in a mews house, sitting by the window looking out onto the quiet cobbled street whilst I edit some very important images. In reality, I…
Jason Goodwin: ‘I want to see a city when it’s at work, not merely taking our money at the turnstile’
Our columnist, ever the reluctant tourist, laments his removal from country life for a family holiday.
What to write – and what NOT to write – in a visitors’ book
From silken sunsets and golden eagles to homemade jam and nudists, Colin Freeman shares some of the gems he’s stumbled upon in holiday visitors’ books.
The Royal Horseguards Hotel review: A tranquil and comfortable spot in the very heart of London
The Royal Horseguards Hotel has one of the finest locations in London – but how does the rest of it stack up? We went along to find out.