Reputed to be England’s oldest hotel, the characterful building dates back to 1573, and has accommodated many illustrious Elizabethans, as well as the hapless Mary Queen of Scots. Today’s guests appreciate its blend of tradition with modernity and its great location opposite the beautiful Pavilion Gardens and Buxton Opera House.

Converted from former design studios of the Spode pottery works, a modern aparthotel with an on-site café. Spacious suites are kitted out with a kitchen area and comfy sofa. The industrial-design café has bare brick walls, large windows and interesting repurposed features. It is open (Mon-Sat 10am-4pm; Sun 11.30am-4pm) for breakfast, snacks, lunches and afternoon tea, and can be hired for weddings and functions. A short distance from the town centre. On-site parking is available.

Experience a B&B in a 16th-century timber-framed building set in two acres of landscaped gardens which has featured in Channel 4’s ‘Four in a Bed’ programme. Bursting with character, the house has roaring fires in ancient hearths, highly polished oak furniture, and wooden beams and four-poster beds in spacious bedrooms. From the peaceful Orangery lounge, there are views onto beautiful flower gardens. A la carte breakfasts include eggs supplied by the owners’ free-roaming hens. On the border between Staffordshire and Cheshire, the village (recorded in the Domesday Book) is 8 miles SW of Stoke-on-Trent.

Set in 10 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland, this country house was built in 1845 for Josiah Wedgwood’s grandson. It is now a family-owned hotel and popular as a wedding venue. A grand staircase leads to characterful bedrooms, some with a balcony; others are in an annexe. A wood-panelled lounge has stunning views across the valley. Open to non-residents, home-cooked food is served for brunch, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. 4½ miles S of the city; 10 minutes off J15 on the M6.

Dark colours and artful lighting lend a moody atmosphere to this sleek hotel in central Leeds. Grills are a speciality in the basement restaurant; a wide selection of cocktails, wines snacks and light plates are served in the glamorous bar.

Occupying an 18th-century mansion this large hotel (part of QHotels group) sits in beautifully landscaped gardens, SE of Leeds. It has a spa, conference and wedding facilities, and a 27-hole championship golf complex in its grounds. Leeds train station is 5 miles away.