recommended places to visit/stay

Hi, after recommendations of cities (or towns) worth visiting and somewhere nice to stay. Ideally looking Kent, Essex, Hertfordshire, Sussex, Berkshire. Looking for a mixed break, to do some chilling, but also to visit places. Interested in historic places, into National Trust, English Hertitage, museums, Architecture, etc.

Hotel wise, nice hotel preferably 4 star with leisure facs (indoor pool, jacuzzi, steam room). Doesn't matter if the hotel is out in the countryside (as I will be going on break with a friend who drives

Recommendations of any good/restaurants nearby (reasonably priced)

Thanks. Looking to take the break in March.