Holmfield Arms

Perhaps Holmfield Arms’ best asset is the picturesque parkland that surrounds this lodge-style hotel, a 20 minute walk or 12 minute bus ride from Wakefield city centre. Situated south-west of Wakefield, close to the City of Wakefield Golf Club and Pugneys Country Park, this Greene King hotel’s decor might rather channel a conference centre vibe inside, but the historic building and large outdoor seating area are down a leafy drive in the middle of three parks, each with their own attractions.

As well as relaxing in one of Holmfield Arms’ king-sized double beds, making the most of the 24-hour concierge service and daily housekeeping, guests can explore the rose gardens, lake, skakt park, miniature steam train and children’s play area in Thorne Park, as well as the bowling greens, tennis courts and putting green which date back to the 1930s. In Holmfield Park, there’s a sculpture commemorating the city’s love affair with rhubarb – a connection that’s commemorated each year with special events, a traditional food and drink market, exhibitions, workshops and more at the Rhubarb Festival. Clarence Park, meanwhile, boasts a restored bandstand and a pavilion.

It’s a green and pleasant setting for this popular hotel, which has the advantage of its own restaurant, serving up classic starters, sharers and favourites from the charcoal grill, traditional pub plates, burgers and steaks made from grass-fed Hereford and Aberdeen Angus beef. Guests have the option of a full English or Irish breakfast, and can revel in the grand exterior of the house itself, which dates back to 1833. Enlarged in the 1870s by worsted manufacturer Joseph Barker, who added a stable block, entrance lodge, boundary wall and gardens, the hotel had a former life as a museum and tea rooms. It’s the combination of surrounding greenery with stately architecture that makes the Holmfield Arms stand out – along with the fact that it’s a lovely spot to enjoy a relaxing drink in the sunshine.