The Bell at Skenfrith

Review

By an old stone bridge across the River Monnow, Janet and William Hutchings's 17th-century coaching inn has a 'wonderfully quiet', 'very beautiful' setting, deep in the Welsh Marches. 'We were made most welcome, and very much enjoyed our stay,' says a visitor this year. There are flagstone floors, an inglenook fireplace, and 'simple yet sophisticated' bedrooms. One visitor, who had booked a single room, was delighted, on a quiet weekend, to be upgraded to a 'magnificent suite, with huge, stylish bathroom, very comfortable bed, large sofa'. Another guest enjoyed the 'idyllic' experience of lying in the bath and 'watching ewes with their lambs on a green hillside'. All bedrooms have DVD/CD-player and free Internet access. The kitchen garden was granted full organic status in 2009, reinforcing a commitment to local and organic produce by providing vegetables, herbs, soft fruits and salads. The restaurant serves elaborate modern British dishes like a trio of Talgarth beef (braised blade, oxtail faggot, seared sirloin) with spiced red wine sauce and horseradish foam. There is a 'splendid', wide-ranging wine list. Children are welcomed: they have their own organic menu, and electronic listening devices are available. (Brian Pullee, and others)

This hotel accepts discount vouchers which entitle readers to a 25% discount off their normal B&B rate. Each printed copy of the Guide contains six vouchers worth in total about £150. BUY THE GUIDE