Hotel Endsleigh

Engaging country retreat occupying the Duke of Bedford’s former 19th-century fishing lodge, on the western edge of Dartmoor (21⁄2 hours southwest of Bath). Owned and restored by designer Olga Polizzi, the property incorporates 108 acres of historic gardens sweeping down through rose terraces to the Tamar River. Sixteen fully modernized guest quarters (no A/C) feature rich fabrics, flat-screen TVs, DVD/CD players and luxury baths with freestanding tubs and rainfall showers. Distinctively appointed lounges lead to a fine dining room making creative use of regional ingredients and traditional English recipes. Leisure activities include hikes in unspoiled Dartmoor National Park.