FOR luxury and attention to detail, you can’t beat Lucknam Park.

“Seamless” was the word I was told to keep in mind as I was shown around the hotel and spa . . . and it’s the right one.

From the moment you drive up the one-mile avenue of 400 lime and beech trees and leave your car outside the entrance to be valet parked, to the time you leave, there’s a smooth, polished feel to your stay.

Nothing is too much trouble for the staff and the standard of all services are high, as you would expect for a hotel which has its own helipad for guests who arrive by air.

It captures the idealised ambiance of a country house weekend - without the draughts, dreadful food and eccentric relatives. Instead there’s gourmet dining, roaring fires, a state-of-the art spa, 500 acres of listed parkland to wander around, an equestrian centre and all mod cons.

Another big plus is that it’s so close to Swindon. Ideal for when you want a mini-break and don’t want to spend too much time getting to your getting away from it all destination. And also handy if you just want to visit for dinner or make use of the spa.

The first thing that strikes you on arrival is the air of quiet and calm both inside the 17th century Palladian mansion and in the grounds.

As I took a look around downstairs, some guests were enjoying afternoon tea, while others were enjoying a round of bridge in the drawing room. Tempting as it was to lounge in front of one of the roaring fires, I headed for my accommodation (the Jasmine suite) in one of the converted stone buildings across the courtyard.

Each of the 13 suites and 29 bedrooms are named after flowers. They are individually designed with fabrics, antiques and ornaments chosen to reflect the character of the rooms and guests have their favourites which they often return to.

The Jasmine suite boasted a four-poster and large sitting area, hidden TVs and a marble bathroom, lovely to relax in until my dinner guest arrived.

I was looking forward to eating in the elegant Michelin-starred The Park and the experience didn’t disappoint (see next week’s Entertainer for full review). The hotel also boasts The Brasserie for more informal dining.

After a good night’s sleep, I ventured to the spa the next morning. It’s extremely impressive - located within the walled garden of the hotel grounds, it has a 20m heated indoor pool, indoor-outdoor hydrotherapy pool, thermal cabins of Japanese Salt, amethyst room, aromatic steam, sauna and tepidarium, experience showers and a well equipped fitness suite. The design, lighting and decor are outstanding throughout.

Treatments are from the Anne Semonin and Carita Paris ranges and it’s testimony to the skill of Sam, my masseuse, that I had a wonderfully relaxing experience. I didn’t realise my seaweed wrap would include a massage as I’m usually not keen on them but this one was excellent and I’m glad I didn’t miss it.

For those who enjoy horse-riding there’s an equestrian centre with 35 horses of all sizes and capabilities and a full size all weather arena and training pen.

I was too relaxed to do anything more strenuous than a gentle stroll around the grounds before heading back to Swindon, which may have taken less than an hour to reach but was also a world away.

Travel Facts Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa Bath Colerne Chippenham SN14 8AZ Telephone: (01225) 742777 www.lucknampark.co.uk Easter offer Cost is from £445 per room per night in a standard room based on double occupancy and is fully inclusive of accommodation, full English breakfast each morning, three course dinner in The Park on both evenings and activities. Minimum two night weekend break (either Friday /Saturday or Saturday/Sunday), Friday April 2 to Sunday April 4.

(Well, you didn’t expect it to be cheap, did you?!)