With its stone mullion windows, limestone flooring, suit of armour and grand sweeping staircase, Manor Court is every inch an example of gothic architecture. The atmospheric surroundings feel like they're steeped in history.
But if you think it dates back centuries, you'd be wrong. The building is nowhere near as old as you might imagine. The property was built 22 years ago. The medieval features were put in by architect Hugh Frost, who originally designed it as his family home.
He and his wife Julie never set out to run a hotel - that happened by chance - but it has turned into a popular retreat for celebrities, international guests and anyone who enjoys a break in the lap of luxury. Manor Court is tucked away, down a quiet country lane in the hamlet of Thorpe, around four miles away from Newark. The plot of land was previously a pony paddock, which it turns out has an ancient burial ground beneath.
