Fodor's Expert Review St. Michael's Manor

In the same family for three generations, this luxurious 16th-century manor house close to the center of St. Albans is set in 5 acres of sweeping grounds. Plush furniture helps make the antiques- and painting-filled public areas inviting, and the contemporary-style bedrooms are filled with thoughtful extras like complimentary bottled water, fruit, and cookies. The Lake restaurant, overlooking the garden, serves Modern British cuisine with French touches. You can take afternoon tea with or without champagne.