DE VERE DUNSTON HALL 4*

While Dunston Hall is long enough to make highly-skilled players take notice, it is also very playable for golfers of every standard, making it the ideal choice for groups and families looking for a beautiful spot for a golf and leisure break. The 22-bay driving range is the perfect place to warm up or work on a few swing changes.

Dunston Hall's best hole is the demanding par-4 16^th, where your approach shot must be well struck to carry the lake that guards the front of the putting surface.

The magnificent Elizabethan façade at the end of the grandiose driveway makes visitors aware that they have arrived somewhere very special. Inside the hotel, the 166 bedrooms are made up of a range of standard and family units, in addition to the extravagant suites.

The traditional flavour of the hall can be felt most prominently in the four-poster and the attic rooms, which feature the original oak beamed ceilings. In contrast to the period features in the hotel, all bedrooms have been equipped with the modern facilities and amenities that are required of a good 4-star hotel, including satellite television and internet access.

The Grade II listed building is without doubt one of the most austere venues not only in the East, but in all of England, making it the perfect choice for a golf break with a bit of old-fashioned class.

Dunston Hall is a perfect retreat for some relaxation, where the health and beauty centre is the place to be pampered, with a range of excellent treatments on offer. For the more active, the hotel is fitted with a swimming pool, aerobic studio and a superbly equipped gym, in addition to sun beds, sauna, steam room and whirlpool spa. Wind down in the evening with a few frames of snooker.

La Fontaine's formal dining room is famed for its exquisite creations and superb wine list.

The Bunkers Bistro serves a range of light snacks and is perfect for a post-golf beer.