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f you’re after somewhere truly exclusive to stay, it doesn’t get much more private (or swish) than this. Tucked away in the Hampshire countryside, close to the New Forest, Somerley is never open to the public – unless you’re stopping the night.

It’s home to the Earl and Countess of Normanton, whose ancestors have been here for generations, and instead of the usual mini-bar in your room, you can expect decanters of whisky instead. Not only that, but you’ll find antique Chinese porcelain, gorgeous furniture, big fluffy towels and all sorts of oils and potions. King Edward VII used to stay here, too – why not book yourself into his favourite room?

When it comes to dinner, it’s a full on silver service, white-gloves-and-tails affair, with butlers and waiting staff standing by to pour the wine (handy if you drop your spoon, too).

And after far too many courses, prepared by the in-house chef, you can walk it all off in the 7,000-acre estate…