Tuddenham Mill, Suffolk

As countryside boltholes go, Tuddenham Mill is a chic proposition. The old watermill, dating back to the 12th century, has been restored to its former glory and now boasts 15 modern, luxurious rooms.

All rooms and lofts feature huge beds, oversized freestanding stone baths, rain showers, Jo Malone toiletries, Missoni bathrobes, Loewe flat screens, Bose sound systems and complimentary fresh orange juice and coffee with home-made biscuits. Visitors enjoy gorgeous views of the mill pond and the seemingly endless Suffolk countryside.

Thankfully, the extensive refurbishment has kept many original features and the workings of the mill, including the iron water wheel and the grinding stones, are central features in the bar and restaurant in the main mill building. The fast-flowing stream has also been given something of a makeover and is a haven for local wildlife, including the resident swans and their cygnets.

If you can drag yourself away from your room, the surrounding acres of peaceful and unspoilt countryside present the perfect opportunity to lose yourself and enjoy the wildlife and idyllic views. For those who want a (little) more action, or a flutter on the horses, the old market towns of Bury St. Edmunds and Newmarket, with its famous racecourse, are only a short drive away.

The food in the Mill restaurant is well worthy of its setting. Head Chef Gordon McNeill's perfectly executed meals are influenced by Asian, Italian and Scottish cuisines, with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients where possible. The meat, for example, comes from the excellent nearby Denham Estate. Best of all, when you reach bursting point, you can head back to your sumptuous room for a rest.