Boysenberries

This exquisite home offers a tailor-made experience for those wanting luxury, pro-level hosting, with the possibility of a fully catered stay accompanied by some seriously high-end food. It's the perfect place for extended families or a group of couples to get together to hold a special celebration or event together. There aren't any cafes or shops nearby, but you won't want for anything with glorious grounds, fantastic food, sublime rooms and antiques to admire at every turn. In short, this peaceful countryside retreat is the dream ticket out of the city. Inside, the design is eclectic – a refined mix of traditional and antique pieces – but it's warm and homely, so you won't feel as though you're tiptoeing around a museum. In the warmer months, savour the extensive gardens with alfresco drinks, or head to the terrace with plenty of seating, as well as a pizza oven and a separate barbecue. This regal home is a foodie's delight. If you can bring yourself to leave, to the south lie the North Wessex Downs, while half an hour north will see you arrive at the dreaming spires of Oxford.

Home truths:
*When we measured the wi-fi, we could only get 6Mbps
*For those looking to send some emails, or who are happy to hotspot off their phone, there are a number of laptop-friendly workspaces
*The catering options come at an additional cost
*Even if you go for the non-catered option, there'll be a member of staff on hand staying in the adjacent property to show you how to use the kitchen appliances
*You’ll definitely want to have your own transport sorted as it’s a while to the nearest set of shops – there's ample on-site parking
*Access to the home is via a private entrance
*Friendly resident dogs live here when your hosts are home, while they won't be around during your stay, it may not be suitable for allergy sufferers