Reception Areas The house in entered in breathtaking fashion. You walk through the doors to be greeted by the Cortes emblem hand painted high above you on the vaulted ceiling. Then, passing through double doors with stained glass pictures of heroes and kings you see the sweeping staircase, galleried hall and glass cupola. In front of you is a replica of Antonia, mother of the Emperor Claudius set in a recessed niche. (The original, we have to confess, is in the British Museum). There are 4 reception rooms. Each has been newly refurbished with cornices and fireplaces restored to their former splendour. The ceilings are 14 ft and each room is double aspect with huge Georgian windows, framed by sumptuous drapes. There is a drawing room 30 ft long, with sofas arranged around a marble open fire. A tapestry of a stag looks down, with paintings of Venetian battle scenes adorning the silk-panelled walls. The dining room is equally large, with tables which comfortably seat up to 25 people. The Georgian cream and indigo wall paper picks out motifs in the elegant cornice above. The drapes complement the tone - deep blue heavy curtains crowned with elaborate cream swags. The other two reception rooms are both flooded with light, looking out over the main lawn. The Red Room has plush sofas, and walls depicting a rural idyll. We find it an ideal place to read or while away a lazy afternoon listening to music. Some though, may prefer the Cream Room to relax in. Above the fireplace is a huge canvas depicting mediaeval books to get you in the mood. There’s a writing desk, around the fireplace are silk armchairs (matching the heavy silk curtains) and there’s a large selection of books for guests to enjoy during their stay.