Now this is how all hotels should be, and then a bit more It is part of the well-known Hotel du Vin chain of hotels, all of which are of a standard way above average. It is in the heart of Winchester, at the top end of the quaint, cobbled high street, in a wonderful old red brick building. The entrance is right on the street, but is grand and inviting. The car park is large but discretely hidden. It is full of Lamborghini's, Ferrari's and other extremely expensive-looking vehicles. The reception leads easily into a very comfortable room indeed. It has a tall ceiling and huge swishy sofas. The decor is elaborately theatrical, with warm brown and purple colours and is a perfect example of the classic Hotel du Vin style. It was the outside space that really made this place special At the back there is a wonderful courtyard with beautifully maintained, greener-than-green grass and a tinkling fountain. The garden furniture is solid and they came around mid morning to put out the seat pads, making them even more comfortable. Around the side the garden continues and has an extra special bonus which was completely unexpected and gloriously unusual The Bothy. It is a wooden open-sided hideaway, with obtuse and unconventional angles, an open fire and circumferential seating within. You have to stoop to get through the entrance but the roof is tall enough for most people to stand inside. Although neither in a tree nor off the ground, it feels like the ultimate tree house. It makes you forget where you are and I had to remind myself a few times that I was in the middle of Winchester. This place is not cheap strictly extremely special occasion or filthy rich territory. The rooms start at about £150/night. I went into 2 rooms and both were gorgeous, with spacious, clean bathrooms and big comfortable beds. The breakfast was excellent (£9.50 for continental, £12.50 for cooked, with options of smoked salmon, full English, kippers etc.) and seemed good value, it is included in some room rates. Excellent coffee and good service. The bar was well-stocked but expensive, expect nothing less. I will be back here, hopefully for a weekend in the not too distant future better get saving now! read more