Amberley Castle

Staying at Amberley Castle is rather like appearing in your very own version of Shakespeare in Love.

The castle dates back over 900 years and the beamed bedrooms, suits of armour in the dining room, gleaming wood panelling and ornate tapestries all create a feeling of stepping back in time.

Happily, beneath the historic decor lies a smoothly-run 21st-century hotel, with Michelin-esque dining and staff who achieve that tricky mix of informality and absolute professionalism.

It’s a wonderfully romantic retreat – surrounded by the tranquil landscapes of the Sussex South Downs – although worth bearing in mind there is no spa or pool.