National Trust - Lytes Cary, Somerset

Making up the west wing of a 14th-century manor house owned by the National Trust, Lytes Cary is a special place for a group get-together. Whether you're celebrating a significant birthday, having a university reunion or just gathering the family, the house won't disappoint. Once you step through the arched wood panelled front door, you'll feel like you've stepped into a different time.

The grand rooms include period furnishings and sumptuous fabrics with more than a nod to the manor's past. There's more than one sitting room too, so if you don't all want to spend all your time together, it's perfectly possible to get some space while relaxing. The wood-panelled dining room is particularly special, hung with portraits and with intricate wood carvings above the fireplace. The dining table sits on a bright red rug surrounded by leather chairs.

You'll also have out-of-hours access to the wonderful Arts and Crafts style gardens, which are yours to wander and discover long after the day visitors have gone home.

Beyond the charming manor house and its irresistible garden, you'll have the rolling hills of Somerset on your doorstep, and Glastonbury, with its mystical associations with King Arthur and array of shops. Serious shoppers should head to the Clarks Factory Shop Outlet in Street and the Mulberry factory shop in Shepton Mallet. The Fleet Air Arm Museum is also very close, and brilliant for a day out if you're at all interested in naval aircraft.

All photos - National Trust Images / Mike Henton