Upton Cressett Gatehouse

An important 16th-century turreted gatehouse –  an inspiring retreat for writers and fascinating for historians. You enter through an open corridor into the dining room with an Adam Dant mural ceiling, open log fire and oak table. The kitchen is opposite and has all the equipment you need to dazzle.

Up the original winding oak staircase to the drawing room with hand-blocked wallpaper, Elizabethan mouldings and decorated fireplace. The Thatcher suite (yes, she stayed) has an ornate canopied bed with feather bedding and a swish turreted wet room. The enormous second bedroom up another floor is filled with books, and has a four-poster bed with fabric by Melissa White. There’s a bath in the room too and a separate loo and shower. Views from here soar over the manicured topiary gardens. 

There are several other properties on the estate for larger parties and Laura can organise a candlelit three course dinner in the Hunting Lodge.