City living for many of us Brits means busy commutes, long hours and little time for authentic rest and relaxation. Que the tranquil sights and sounds of the English countryside where the air is crisp and clean, the people in less of a hurry and the landscapes rich with flora and fauna like no other. The south of England is abrim with lovely countryside manors worthy of a staycation where enduring memories are made. Here we present a collection of the cream of the crop.

Cliveden House

Taplow, Berkshire, England

Cliveden House is one of the more alluring manors on our list, overlooking a spectacular 19th-century parterre and bordered by acres of ancient woodland running down to the Thames. Its ideal location makes Cliveden the perfect stay should you be in town for Royal Ascot.

Rooms start at £625

Ellenborough Park

Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England

Ellenborough Park is a magnificent early sixteenth-century building with priceless masonry and woodwork which provides each visitor with an authentic old-world experience. The country house hotel is situated at the highest point of the Cotswold hill range making it ideal for hikes and walking trips. Views from the hotel stretch out regally upon 90 acres of parkland including the private track across fields to Cheltenham Racecourse.

Rooms start at £242

Great Fosters Hotel

Egham, Surrey, England

The regal Great Fosters hotel is set in the tranquil surroundings of Surrey on a 50-acre estate with manicured hedges, rose gardens and a lake. The Elizabethan manor house is steeped in history; it was allegedly built as a royal hunting lodge for Henry VIII in which the king spent time with his family. If it's good enough for him, it'll be a magical stay guaranteed.

Rooms start at £194

Nutfield Priory Hotel & Spa

Nutfield Rd, Redhill 

Situated at the end of a long driveway, the grand manor house is set in 12 acres of land and is a world of medieval archways, intricately carved panelling and ceilings, fine paintings, marble fireplaces and chandeliers. A beautiful destination on its own should you enjoy traditional English buildings.

Rooms start at £109

Summer Lodge Country House Hotel & Spa

Evershot, Dorset, England

The most eccentric country house on our list, Summer Lodge rooms are adorned with feminine prints injecting a warm, homely feel to each unique space. Poet and author Thomas Hardy designed the drawing room which is admirably classic in style, now painted a pretty blue, and the bedrooms are quaintly pretty and comfortable.

Rooms start at £241