In the thick of things, a large, modern hotel on the cobbled high street. Public spaces are vibrantly furnished or bright with colourful prints. Food and drink is available throughout the day; HarSpa has a whirlpool, sauna, steam room and small open-air heated pool.

An elegantly updated Queen Anne-style mansion in lovely gardens. Lavish afternoon teas are served on the terrace, fine dinners in an oak-panelled room. Soothing treatments for face, body and nails can be booked. Guildford Station is a 10 minutes’ drive.

Yeehaw! All spruced up, a cowboy-themed hotel (part of a small group) in former Tunbridge Wells West Station. Bedrooms have cowboy boot- or antler-shaped lights, and Native American-style blankets. Vittles include hearty servings of ribs, burgers, nachos and other US favourites in the atmospheric restaurant. Join in the hootin an’ hollerin with live Country and Western bands in the bar until closing time.

Near the Pantiles, a former brewery and school house is now a modern hotel with sophisticated, neutral-toned bedrooms and suites (some in the neighbouring Townhouse are more contemporary and have a separate entrance). Breakfast is buffet-style. Informal dining as well as a la carte menus are served in Seventeen restaurant. Situated by Cumberland Walk, al fresco morning snacks, cocktails, and light bites can be enjoyed on The Terrace.

An informal hotel in a renovated black-and-white Victorian building on The Embankment, with fine views out over the River Great Ouse. Rooms are prettily decorated with touches of floral fabrics and wallpaper. Throughout the day, a wide range of food is served in the homely public spaces.

A friendly Wetherspoon pub in a handsome building right In the centre of town. Bedrooms are comfortable and well-equipped, with modern bathrooms. Food and drinks may be ordered via the Wethersppon app, and there are plenty of places to sit inside, plus a terrace and garden for alfresco dining.

Close to Bedford Park, an informal restaurant with rooms blends vintage and modern decoration with flair. Breakfast, morning coffee, traditional British dishes and sharing platters, and homemade afternoon teas are served. Several of the Victorian-style bedrooms have a vintage sink and roll-top bath.

In secluded gardens and woodland, a low-built contemporary house with sun terraces and spacious accommodation overlooking acres of greenery. There’s an open plan lounge for relaxing, and Aga-cooked breakfasts served in the communal breakfast room. Five miles N of Lewes.