These are not the biggest nor the stateliest of stately-home guest bedrooms, but the views and the ambience are truly memorable. Accommodation is in a self-contained wing of the celebrated manor, off a long corridor with sea views. The rooms overlook the south-facing garden and its famous stone terraces, linked by the Hundred Steps. When the day-trippers leave, you can play lord and lady of the manor for the night. A game of billiards, perhaps, or a snooze in a quiet corner of the residents' lounge behind a newspaper. The views from the balustrade across the lawn to Bantry Bay as the sun goes down over the water (next stop, New York) will be long-remembered—especially if you are blessed with a moonlit night. The smallish rooms are luxuriously appointed, with embroidered silk curtains and underfloor heating in the recently renovated bathrooms. The real lord of the manor, Egerton Shelswell-White, will probably be on hand to book you into a local restaurant for dinner. Breakfast is taken in a large basement room, prettily decked out in gingham. Pros: a genuine heritage experience; unique location with privileged views; friendly, helpful hosts. Cons: a longish walk (or a short drive) into town; worth the premium only if you are into history and heritage.
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