There's nothing quite like a weekend retreat. Be it a romantic getaway for two, a friendship group reuniting or a significant personal event, the sense of freedom and temporary escape from daily stresses can be priceless.
We've picked out five highly recommended spots for MurdockMen to venture for a peaceful few days within Britain. These locations are each renowned for their lavish interiors, fantastic scenery, excellent food and facilities - essentially everything that a dream weekend getaway should entail.
With valentine's in mind there may still be time to get a special trip booked. Otherwise perhaps consider an early spring venture to celebrate the eventual end of winter in style.
The Beckford Arms
A traditional yet stylish country pub located on the edge of the stunning rolling parkland of the Fonthill Estate in south Wiltshire. The kitchen cooks up fresh produce, with a traditional bar serving a range of local ales by the open fire.
In the bedrooms you'll find crisp Egyptian cotton sheets on the beds, with Siberian goose down duvets and Vintage Welsh blankets for extra comfort on colder evenings. If you're looking to fit in a spot of reading or to simply sit and contemplate after a muddy outdoor hike, comfy armchairs set out on the natural seagrass floors provide the perfect resting opportunity.
Local outdoor activities to participate in include shooting and fly fishing.
Holbeck Ghyll
This boutique hotel in Cumbria has earned a reputation for serving the finest food that is locally sourced where possible. There's certainly something to be said for being awarded a Michelin Star for 13 consecutive years. Couple this with one of the most extensive wine cellars in the region and you're probably already sold.
With incredible views across the Lake District and Cumbria from the elegant oak-panelled dining room, Holbeck Ghyll rightfully claim to provide the ultimate British gastro getaway.
For anybody looking to indulge further, there is also an award-winning indulgent health spa on site.
Glengorm Castle
This castle upon the Isle of Mull is a family home with classically styled B&B rooms inside its grand structure, as well as independent cottages and flats within the estate.
The bed and breakfast option is perfect for those seeking a peaceful rural retreat. Enjoy views of the Atlantic and summer sunsets, looking east to the forests of Armore and the Sound of Mull, taking in every picturesque opportunity.
Downstairs, guests have full access to the main hall, library and elegant dining room. With complimentary whisky available in the library, any MurdockMan would be in his element, being able to properly relax and peacefully indulge.
A vast amount of wildlife surrounds the grounds too, with guided walks available courtesy of the local project to take in the glorious landscapes and spot some amazing animals along the way.
Stapleford Park
A country house hotel in the heart of England, Stapleford Park offers luxury accommodation with a spa and PGA championship golf course.
The hotel is surrounded by 500 acres of magnificent grounds landscaped by Capability Brown, ideal for country pursuits and leisure activities including shooting, riding and falconry.
Each luxurious bedroom has been individually designed to complete the experience of an idyllic escape.
Babington House
In the heart of Somerset lies this country house retreat for eating, drinking and relaxing.
As part of Soho House, the members' club boasts incredible grounds with tennis courts, a cricket pitch, walled garden and 18 acres of glorious British countryside with its own lake. There is an indoor and outdoor pool with a Cowshed spa to indulge and unwind.
Stepping inside you'll find a Library and additional study for reading and relaxing, a cinema and log room for cosy fireside dining.
The Main House has five bedrooms on the first floor and five Attic bedrooms, all with views of the grounds. Each room is designed differently for an additional personal touch.
The in-house Deli and Orangery restaurant provide British food with Italian influences using fresh produce taken straight from the garden.
If someone were to curate the ideal British weekend retreat it would essentially be set here.