Stoke Park

Set in a Palladian mansion amidst 300 acres of landscaped grounds, Humphry’s is widely regarded as the crowning glory of this country club, world-class golf course, hotel and spa. It’s truly a place for special occasions, with lofty ceilings, gleaming chandeliers, floor-to-ceiling windows and lavish upholstery. During summer evenings, the high windows afford far-reaching views across the lake and of the bridge designed by the restaurant’s namesake, Humphry Repton. The adjoining lounges have plush sofas and parlour palms for cocktail lingering, and roaring log fires in winter.

The real focus here is on the first-class food. Chris Wheeler is now entering his 16th year as head chef. He and his team have garnered an impressive three AA rosettes for the resort thanks to their enviable skill and outstanding dishes. There is a set menu and à la carte menu, and a record is kept of guests’ dietary requirements, no matter how infrequently they visit, so that you don’t need to inform them every time.

We delighted in an amuse-bouche of truffled hummus and fresh-from-the-oven bread while we dithered over the menu, which offers a wealth of choice for all diets and appetites. My starter of honeyed feta and beetroot cubes was satisfyingly sumptuous, and my partner’s scallop with mango and delicate bonito flakes was pronounced sensational. For my main course, I plumped for roast cauliflower served with kimchi and mushroom ketchup. Courgettes cooked with pesto made the perfect accompaniment. My partner sampled halibut enhanced with tarragon oil served with creamed potatoes – it was a stand-out dish. Other mains included pan-fried wood pigeon with blackberries, and local beef sirloin served with marrowbone crumb. Almost too replete for desserts, we opted for the crème caramel to share. Superbly brewed coffee followed, served with delicate petits fours that rounded off our meal perfectly.

There is a smartly compiled wine list, with varietals available by the glass and by the bottle. Staff are professional, knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring guests feel well looked after.