The Evesham Hotel

John and Sue Jenkinson have run their family-friendly, quirky, informal hotel since 1975. He is a man of strong opinions: 'Is there background music?' we asked. 'Only over my dead body,' he replied. A wearer of loud ties, he is proud of the hotel's eccentricity, reflected in 'smile-enforcing loos' and a wine list that has no French or German bottles. A 'caring owner', he is supported by senior staff whose average length of service is 25 years. A visitor who has stayed many times confirms that 'standards are as good as ever'. Another wrote of 'a feeling of relaxation and humour'. The themed bedrooms, designed by Mrs Jenkinson, include Alice in Wonderland, a family suite among the beams; Apologies to Gaudí, dedicated to the equally quirky architect. All rooms have a silent fridge with soft drinks, milk and a half bottle of wine; bathroom fans are quiet; rooms in the extension have double doors to reduce corridor noise. Children are charged according to age and amount eaten. They can enjoy the indoor swimming pool ('none of this serious spa stuff here') and play areas in the grounds. They have a jokey high tea menu ('a junior à la carte'). For adults, chef Adam Talbot offers a wide choice of international dishes, eg, Thai chicken soup; rosemary-braised lamb shank. A vegetarian menu is available. (T Lee, Frank G Millen)