You could be forgiven for getting swept up in the grand surroundings of The Manor in Oxfordshire.

The long drive surrounded by rows of trees and the stone facade of building with a 900-year history.

But the real beauty of The Manor is more subtle.

It’s the little things that will guarantee your stay is memorable.

Like the attention paid to all the rooms, each lovingly decked out in a sumptuous yet sympathetic style, or the way the staff take time to greet and chat to each guest.

Jovial touches like the two topiary sheep that greet you in the car park on arrival to the peacocks and squirrels carefully carved from the hedges that observe you as you wander through the gardens.

Simple yet elegant touches like slippers awaiting you by your bed, huge fluffy dressing gowns hanging in the wardrobe or the fact the turn-down team thoughtfully prepare your room while you dine make the entire experience feel effortless and relaxed.

On arrival to our room we were greeted by a hand-written note from the manager wishing us an enjoyable stay. This attention to detail is what makes the place special and makes you feel at home. The staff are very knowledgeable about the foods and wines and happy to tell you all about the processes and how the incredible creations are made.

The hotel is a treat for foodies with a changing menu reflecting the different seasons and all local produce.

For those wishing to extend their palette there is a tasting menu with wine matching available.

Or you can book a table to watch your food being prepared at the chef’s table and experience the hustle and bustle of the kitchen.

There is also a very popular afternoon tea served in the morning room.

We experienced an a la carte dinner in the Baron’s Hall, a gorgeous oak-panelled room.

From start to finish it was a master-class in exquisite execution both in presentation and taste.

From the beetroot meringue canapés to the exotic fruit dessert it was delicious.

This was followed by tea and coffee and although my palate may need some refining when it comes to the intricacies of red wine, I can hold my own with any foodie when it comes to tea – be it a Golden Oolong or a full bodied Assam.

So I was delighted to see they had an extensive range.

The Manor is a stone’s throw from the Cotswolds, as well as close to Blenheim Palace and Bicester shopping village and would make a luxurious base from which to explore this very green and pleasant corner of England.

Literary types will also be delighted to note that a previous owner of The Manor, Sir Henry Norreys (Norris), is a key figure in the Man Booker Prize winning novels by Hilary Mantel: Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies.

Whether your preference is for fine dining, literary works or exploration, The Manor has something for everyone.

And of course, no trip to Oxfordshire would be complete without a visit to Oxford.

We spent an afternoon wandering round the university campus buildings, old shops and parks, before heading home.

Getting there

The Manor could not be easier to get to. From Dorset, it is a simple two to three hour drive on the motorway, join the A34 at Winchester and continue until you pass Oxford and see signs for Weston-on-the-Green.

For more information visit themanorweston.com or call 01869 350621