L'Hermitage Gantois Autograph Collection ★★★★★

Lying in the heart of the triangle that links three of Europe's main cities - London, Paris and Brussels, the city of Lille makes for a great weekend getaway, less than an hour and a half from London. Boasting a mix of ancient architecture and modern design, the L’Heritage Gantois**** is located in the heart of the city, between the town hall and Beaux Art museum.

As you wander the stone streets of Lille, you’ll see that they are lined with 17th- and 18th-century buildings that hint at its Flemish roots. As you approach the L’Hermitage Gantois, you’ll be equally impressed by its exterior, with a series of Flemish steeped roofs. Step inside and you’ll see the bar under a vast glass ceiling which covers the largest of the hotel’s courtyards. The whole establishment is steeped in history, from the 17th-century chapel to the original 15th-century hospice room, juxtaposed with modern art around each corner.

Stroll through and you’ll find several tranquil courtyard garden and a museum showcasing medical tools used in the 19th-century, when the building housed sick people. Keep going and you’ll find the pool, sauna, treatment rooms and steam room that make up the spa.

As you take some time to settle into your Superior Room, notice the traditional decoration, including oak-panelled walls, beamed ceilings, Louis XV-style furniture and marble-tiled bathrooms. Each room has been individually styled, and many boast a view of the manicured gardens – a rarity in such a central city location.

When you’ve worked up an appetite from all the exploring, there are a range of options, whether you fancy the full works in the form of foie gras in a red vaulted dining room, or a regional classic like beef stew at the less formal but equally lovely L’Estaminet Gantois. The breakfast buffet is also extensive, with a tasty selection of treats and sparkling wine to start each day off with a decadent touch.

With its gardens, heated swimming pool, spa, gastronomic restaurant and classic features, L’Hermitage Gantois**** has got everything you need for a city break to this lesser visited part of northern France.