Heather and David Armstrong are warm and accommodating hosts at this ‘fascinating’ hotel, occupying a farmhouse and rustic-looking, purpose-built annexes.

‘Wonderful location in rural Northumberland. Friendly, peaceful; superb dinners and a lovely breakfast.’

'Just outside a picturesque little village’, host to an annual gooseberry show, in the North York Moors national park, this ‘high-quality B&B’ is run by owners Georgina and Michael Curnow.

‘Excellent standards are being maintained,’ confirms a Guide trusty this year, after staying at this village inn with rooms overlooking the Vale of Mowbray.

On a loop of the River Coquet, Sandra Thomas's hotel is a welcoming spot for travelling dogs and their two-legged friends.

A former convent opposite Alnwick Castle has received a heavenly makeover into a luxurious boutique hotel.