Green Bough

Owned by Janice and Philip Martin, this 'well-run' conversion of two Victorian town houses stands a mile from Chester's historic centre. 'I would not hesitate to recommend it for a short stay,' says a visitor who came for a celebration weekend. Bedrooms vary. 'Ours, overlooking the rooftop garden, was spacious, meticulously clean, and with comfortable furniture including a king-size bed.' Earlier visitors had a 'large, light' deluxe room with 'antique brass bed, two armchairs, squashy sofa, luxurious fabrics'. A card offers a choice of pillows and type of bedding. Background music plays all day in the public rooms. Traditional afternoon tea is served in the lounge. In the Olive Tree restaurant, 'the food was well cooked and presented; starters particularly good. Accompanying portions of vegetables with the main courses were rather small, but the owners say this has now been rectified. Service by the all-English staff was excellent. Proper linen napkins and tablecloths, a treat, but the menu didn't change in two days.' Head chef Neil Griffiths's modern European menu might include bouillabaisse; twice-roasted leg of Welsh salt marsh lamb. Breakfast has 'a wonderful buffet of fruit compotes, salads, yogurt and comb honey'. The rooftop garden has a water feature. Buses can be taken into the centre from the busy, tree-lined street. (Neil Butler)