Originally owned by a wealthy barrister, Uga Residence was once designed to host receptions and entertainment on a grand scale, with great halls, expansive gardens and stables for visitors’ carriage horses. Now it certainly still looks the part and has retained enough character to impress its guests without feeling overburdened with the dust of the past; indeed, the modern touches imparted during its most recent renovation have brought the Residence rushing vigorously into the present day. It now features a gym, sophisticated bar, swimming pool, and plenty of living areas to relax.

The 10 spacious Park Suites are long and high-ceilinged, the sleeping and relaxing areas split by a wooden screen. Each suite has a small outdoor garden and dining area, alongside modern amenities such as a large flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi, mini-bar and espresso machine. The luxurious bathrooms feature rain showers and oversized vanity console.

For honeymooners, those celebrating a special occasion or who simply like to splurge, there is the voluminous (1360 sq ft!) Residence Suite which is similarly styled in tasteful pastel colours and warm woods, but here the dials have firmly been set to opulent – you will enjoy a much larger private garden, a splendid bathroom (this time with bathtub), and enough floorspace that you would be forgiven for requesting a map.

Attentive staff, refined styling and attractive accommodation aside, the final feather in the Residence’s cap is the restaurant which offers delightful and adventurous fare that pushes Sri Lankan ingredients and culinary techniques to the fore, at excellent value.