Tor Cottage

'The hospitality is second to none' at Maureen Rowlatt's upmarket B&B up a bridle path in a private and secluded mid-Devon valley. The cottage stands in large wooded grounds with abundant flowers and wildlife; badgers and deer enjoy the cover of the gorse on the hillside beyond the garden. Visitors are welcomed with a trug containing sparkling wine, home-made truffles, fresh fruit. Four bedrooms, each with private terrace, are in the garden. 'We had Deco, a museum of Art Deco, with a cabinet full of collectibles to which many guests have contributed, and a splendid tiled fireplace.' Laughing Waters has Shaker furniture, a gypsy caravan, a hammock and a barbecue. All rooms have CD- and DVD-player. 'We enjoyed lazy days by the glorious swimming pool', which is available for the use of guests, 'even for those who want a midnight swim'. 'Wonderful' breakfasts, ordered the evening before, are taken in the conservatory or on a terrace. 'We asked for a modest portion of smoked salmon and scrambled eggs. I hate to think what a full portion must do to your figure.' A light supper tray can be ordered in advance (soup and pasty, salads, etc). (Louise Neesham, and others)