Cosy COUNTRY HOUSES

Curl up at one of these atmospheric hotels and escape the blustery weather outdoors

- QIN XIE

In the depths of icy January and February, nothing feels more of a treat than escaping to a country house filled with crackling fireplaces, frothy bubble baths and polished wood interiors. Book into one of these beautiful rural hotels, brimming with cosiness.

Pen-y-Dyffryn, Shropshire

Nestled in the Shropshire hills, dog-friendly Pen-yDyffryn is a great choice for walkers: it's only a short stroll from the Welsh border, with popular Offa's Dyke trail less than a mile away. The family-run stay has plenty of ways to help you warm up after a hike too, including rooms with spa baths to soak away the post-walk muscle strain. Otherwise, this is the kind of place for settling down in front of the fireplace and relaxing with a cup of tea - don't miss the homemade scones and jam that's served on arrival. For dinner, the hotel has its own acclaimed restaurant, and four courses are included everyday.

* BOOK IT Rooms from £102pp, including dinner and breakfast; peny.co.uk

Meldrum House Country Hotel, Aberdeenshire