T

he 14th-century Langley Castle has a turbulent history of beheadings, uprisings and political intrigue, but don’t worry – we’re confident your stay will be suitably peaceful.

For one thing, it’s very quiet here (we’re guessing the seven-foot-thick fortified walls have something to do with that), so even if you’re the lightest sleeper, you should get some quality slumber in one of the magnificent four-poster beds.

This tranquillity continues outside in the castle’s ten acres of woodland, where the only disturbance comes from over excited birds in the nearby trees. The winding pathways are an easy place to lose yourself in (along with any thoughts of nine-to-five stress) but don’t forget to be back in time for dinner.

Head Chef Andy Smith cooks up a mean monkfish (wrapped in pancetta), which is served in the candle-lit Josephine Restaurant. And, when you‘ve had your fill, how about rounding off the day in front of the blazing drawing-room fire.

Warm and cosy it may be, but you’ll be more chilled than you have been in a while.