The Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa, Midhurst, West Sussex

We love the view from the National Trust's Uppark House near Petersfield.

The hotel is in the centre of Midhurst, a pretty market town with plenty of independent shops and pubs. Nearby attrations include Petworth Palace, Goodwood and Cowdray Estate.
By car: Midhurst is a two-hour drive from London 1 hour 20 minutes from Brighton. Oxford is also a two-hour drive away. There is plenty of free parking at the hotel.
By train: The train from London Waterloo to Haslemere takes approximately 55 minutes with a further 15-minute taxi ride to the hotel.

The hotel suits history lovers, spa seekers and South Downs walkers. We love the old letters and quirky vintage finds displayed on the walls upstairs.

The small enclosed courtyard spa garden, where you can lounge under a tree just outside the pool, is lovely.

• Bar
• Restaurant

• Spa

• Indoor heated pool

• Gym

• Fitness classes

• Garden

• Terrace

• Free Wi-Fi
• Free breakfast
• Free parking
• Pets allowed

The Queen's Suite where Elizabeth I stayed is irresistible. It's said she leaned out the window to watch a performance in the square underneath. It also has a 'wig closet', now containing a dressing table.

Cosy, Classic, Midhurst, Sussex Four Poster, Feature Four Poster, Sussex Junior Suites, Queen's Suite
Facilities include: double bed, ensuite bathroom with shower, Temple Spa toiletries, free Wi-Fi, Nespresso coffee machine, tea tray with homemade biscuits, TV, phone, dressing gowns, hairdryer

Breakfast is the stand out meal, with Bloody Marys and sparkling wine available. We also love the vegetarian full English, with proper sausages, and the decent cheesecake.

Restaurant and bar: refined European dishes, light bites, long drinks list with more than 100 gins. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. 8am-11pm. Three courses £38.