The Langley, Buckinghamshire

It’s not easy for Jane Austin fans to pop into her world. Or maybe it is. One just has to book a stay at The Langley, which is at once stuck in time and thoroughly of-the-moment, thanks to a recent revamp by Dennis Irvine Studio. Guest rooms are both classically tailored and modern (gilt framed riding scenes here, sleek mirrored headboards there). Ask for the deluxe suite in the main house for preserved woodwork (like coffered ceilings) from the original architecture and a roomy layout, up to 656 square feet. Don’t leave without having at least one afternoon tea from a velvet perch in the Drawing Room, which overlooks a lake and acres upon acres of manicured gardens.

The 150-acre former estate of the Duke of Marlborough, newly opened as an Anglophile’s dream retreat—with a subterranean mosaic-lined infinity pool, glitzy spa and cigar bar named for William Churchill.

Just about the architecture. Head to the gardens beyond for contemplative strolls—they were designed in the 1700s by Capability Brown.

Frankly, you’ve always felt like you could be a duke (or duchess) and want to live like one—if only for one idyllic getaway.

You’re a bit of a spa junkie, but you’ve never encountered one so well designed—with a Himalayan salt sauna, amethyst crystal steam room, hammam, ice fountain and infinity pool, no less. You splay out on a heated lounger and await your massage. The Duke of Marlborough never had it so good.

Cedar - British fare, alongside natural, seasonal produce sourced from European markets Drawing Room - Afternoon Tea served alongside classic pastries with a modern twist Churchill Bar - Fine spirits, cognac and cocktails, alongside a rare choice of cigars stored in a custom humidor