Tim Wellock finds the perfect retreat in the North Yorkshire countryside for golfers and their widows

WING Commander Guy Gibson could probably have done with a bit of holistic total body care when he was planning the Dambusters raid while stationed at Aldwark Manor. But such luxuries were a figment of future imagination during the Second World War.

The only hot stones the wing commander cared about were those of the bouncing bomb variety, but despite the proximity of RAF Linton on Ouse, Aldwark now provides the ultimate in relaxation.

Manor from heaven, in fact.

The opportunity for pampering is a far cry from both the Canadian Air Force's occupation and the strict regime which must have followed the war, when the county council turned the manor into a school for young offenders.

While not wishing to offend the offenders, the beautiful old house - dating from 1865 - was worthy of much better, and since a group of businessmen began the conversion to a hotel 30 years ago, it has developed into a four-star gem.

They undertook to supplement the ancient oaks in the 37-acre parkland, so that there are now 63 types of trees, providing a setting of sylvan splendour at the start and finish of the 18-hole golf course.

The rest of the course is in open territory on the far bank of the Ure, which is a broad, gently-flowing river in its final stages before its confluence with the Ouse. As the Swale tips into the Ure three miles upstream and the Nidd comes in a bit further down, it's not difficult to imagine why York floods.

Aldwark Manor stands comfortably above the flood plain and from the southbound A1(M) is approached via Boroughbridge and the village of Little Ouseburn. About a mile before arrival it is necessary to fork out 40p to cross the only privately-owned toll bridge in England.

The swimming pool, spa bath, sauna, steam room, gym and seven beauty treatment rooms are housed in the seven-year-old extension, which blends sympathetically with the manor and has increased the number of bedrooms to 55.

The blend of old and new provides a choice between traditional and contemporary, while there is a range of fourposter rooms and suites.

The entrance lobby with its high ceiling, chandeliers and grand old fireplace is hugely welcoming, as is the supremely comfortable Squadron Bar beyond, with its reminders of the RAF connections.

IF you prefer something a little less formal, the modern Terrace Bar is open to residents as well as providing the 19th hole for golfers. It also offers a selection of snacks and light meals, but any stay here would not be complete without sampling head chef Bruce Mc- Dowell's AA rosette cuisine.

This is served in a light and airy restaurant in the new wing, and the delicious food is based on simple dishes, but provides a lovely fusion of tastes.

The sweets, in particular, are delightfully presented, but there is no danger of the overall effect being spoilt by the overpretentious nonsense which afflicts many establishments these days.

If you wish to work up an appetite in the fresh air without playing golf, the hotel can offer details of walks from 2.5 to ten miles.

York is 13 miles away and Castle Howard 15, while among the lesserknown attractions in the Howardian Hills to the east is Yorkshire Lavender.

Though you might pay a little more than average to sample the lavender scones in the delightful tearoom, there is no admission fee to these imaginatively laidout gardens next to the village of Terrington.

From the elevated position there are fine views across the flat plain to Sherrif Hutton castle and York Minster beyond, while there's a maze to keep the children amused and a small deer park.

Once back at Aldwark Manor you can spend anything from 25 minutes having a £25 body exfoliation to one hour 55 minutes for the holistic back, face and scalp treatment with hot stones at £90.

Or if you fancy the "ultimate" all-day package at £135 it involves a detoxifying algae wrap, express facial, manicure and pedicure, light lunch and use of the leisure facilities. Sounds perfect for the golf widow.

TRAVEL FACTS

Aldwark Manor is owned by Q Hotels. Address: Aldwark, near Alne, York, YO61 IUF. Tel: 01347 838146. Fax: 01347-838867. email: aldwarkmanorreservations@qhotels.co.uk.

website: www.Qhotles.co.uk.

Midweek breaks start at £125 per standard room per night, dinner bed and breakfast (based on two sharing). Weekend breaks start at £155 per standard room per night.

Treatments are bookable separately and subject to availability.

On two-night breaks a special SPA package is available at a supplement of £89 per person. This includes skin consultation, full body massage, revitalising facial, conditioning manicure.

A Sunday special for golfers involves two rounds and one night's dinner bed and breakfast for £99. For details of other golf packages, ring the professional's shop on 01347-838353.