Somerset born and Somerset bred, Louise and David Farrance have run their B&B in this wisteria-hung 15th-century Somerset longhouse for nearly ten years.

Black swans glide on the lake in the garden; sun pours in through Venetian windows. Here, perched on a lynch, or ridge, above the Cary river valley, is a classic Georgian country house run as a B&B with ‘a touch of class’.

‘Clearly cherished by its owners, this small, serene hotel oozes good taste without a hint of affectation,’ say Guide inspectors in 2017 of Tim and Anne Riley’s Edwardian house on a steep hillside.

‘There are no flashy bits, just a friendly atmosphere and good, old-fashioned hospitality’ at Ann and Ian Dyer’s rural B&B on the family farm at the foot of the Quantock hills.

‘A close approximation to perfection.’ Long-time fans praise John and Jane Bradley’s ‘peaceful, hugely enjoyable’ Edwardian hunting lodge, with ‘beautiful views’ towards the summit of Dunkery Beacon.

‘The shabby-chic style suits the relaxed atmosphere’ at this ‘fresh, appealing’ candidate, one of Robin Hutson’s sty of Pig hotels.

‘A special place’, Julie and Edward Christian’s B&B is in a ‘beautifully furnished’ 1930s house in secluded grounds overlooking Exmoor countryside.

Contented guests praise the ‘friendly, efficient staff’, ‘comfy beds’ and ‘good food’ at Philip Mepham’s inn on the village green.

Picture postcard it may be, but there is nothing twee about this 15th-century farmhouse, ‘beautifully restored, and with lots of character’, on a National Trust estate.

Susan Keeling’s hilltop B&B stands above an expanse of terraced gardens leading down to the canal, with ‘lovely views’ over the city.