Monkey Island Estate, Bray, Berkshire

The estate is on and around an island in picturesque Bray. From the hotel you can see private residences, lucky enough to share the same riverside views. The private carpark is a walkable footbridge away from the restaurant, spa and some rooms. Windsor and Dorney, equally quintessentially English, are nearby. Nature lovers are spoilt; hire a boat and glide along the river or take a stroll from the property all the way to pretty Bray Marina.

By car: around 1 hour from London, 1 hour 30 minutes from Bristol and 3 hours 45 minutes from Manchester. Free parking available.

By train: Maidenhead station is ten minutes away by taxi. Book trains to Maidenhead.

The hotel is rich with rooms to sit in together or alone, with a plethora of artwork from monkeys and fish to black and white photographs. Some walls flaunt painted foliage, whilst one of the old original rooms - the Monkey Room - transports you to the 17th Century with original frescos. There's plenty of plush ergonomic, curved seating.

From benches under the cherry trees in the garden, to the complimentary lounge, to the hidden away Whisky Snug, there are plenty of options to enjoy the property and feel at home. The staff are professional and friendly and Hotel Manager Matthew Facey is particularly proud of the estate's eclectic history, happily sharing his knowledge with guests.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Terrace
• Garden
• Lounge
• Spa
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Whether a room off the island in the converted barn, a private residence suitable for groups or a suite within the Temple on the island, all spaces are furnished with contemporary, countryside flair. Enviable river views and walk-in marble showers, including sensational Aromatherapy toiletries, add to the glamour. The Wedgewood Suite stands out with historic elegance.

Room types: Barn Room, Temple Room, Temple Terrace, Wedgewood Suite, Private Residence

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, tea and coffee facilities, flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi

The Brasseries' meditative river views are dreamy, and can be enjoyed whilst tucking into carefully crafted dishes from Jerusalem artichoke tatin to their signature burger. Warm weather enables al fresco dining, or a cocktail using herbs from the garden on the garden terrace. Relax with a tea in the resplendent Monkey Room, boasting a beautiful 17th Century fresco ceiling.

Monkey Island Brasserie: elegant main dining room with terrace. Open daily, all-day menu and afernoon tea.