Expect the unexpected at this luxurious spa hotel just outside Bath; nothing about the gabled Georgian mansion is quite what it seems.

Roll up to the entrance of Homewood Park Hotel and Spa near Bath to be welcomed by Oswald – a giant monkey deep in thought. Check in amid a reception area dominated by a wall of antique clocks. Explore 20 acres of well-kept grounds with the possibility of stumbling across a model of a horse-drawn carriage decorated with the image of grunge icon Kurt Cobain. And book one of the best rooms to discover artistic flourishes and a host of modern amenities – plus a private hot tub on the terrace.

For a more communal thermal experience, Homewood’s spa offers an outdoor vitality pool, indoor and outdoor saunas, hydrotherapy pool, steam room, plus heated outside hot tub and swimming pool with views of the Avon Valley.

The playful indulgence continues in the luxurious Olio restaurant. Here, Jamie Forman’s menus showcase British dishes with a Mediterranean twist, made using local and kitchen garden-grown produce. Explore dishes such as the South West spare rib pulled pork, whole branzino sea bass, and ember-roasted beets.

Depending on the season, meals can be taken in the relaxed dining room, on the outdoor terrace or even in one of the Perspex No-Dig Feasting Domes.

Trencherman’s tip

For overnight stays, take advantage of the communal larder and variety of complimentary snacks and drinks.