Short stay: Congham Hall Hotel and Spa, Near Kings Lynn, Norfolk, UK

Carved kingfishers and waders, an oil painting of deer flitting through the forest, a Norfolk estuary at sunset. Congham Hall Hotel and Spa, where you hear the birdsong, is a haven, a rural celebration of one of Britain’s most restful counties.

Congham Hall Hotel, built in the 1780s, is a whitewashed Georgian mansion complete with portico. Lovingly curated by Ruth and Nicholas Dickinson, once of Chewton Glen and Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons, the Hall mains the balance, elegance and symmetry of its Georgian origins but with contemporary comfort and style.

The welcome

With just 26 rooms, the friendly and experienced local staff, have the time to welcome guests and take them to their room.

Safety dominates….