Woodborough Hall

Formal dining at Nottinghamshire's 300 year old Woodborough Hall takes place on the first floor, overlooking the glorious grounds. Among Des Sweeney's (he's cooked at Buckingham Palace and The House of Lords) most impressive dishes are a three hour braised venison shank in a rich red wine sauce served with cream potato puree; local pheasant braised with mirepoix, shallots, smoked bacon and burgundy jus served with butter cream potatoes; and risotto of red chard and baby spinach with shaved parmesan and extra virgin lemon olive. Gorgeous.