On the site of the Roman Forum, this sleek Bailgate area hotel is ‘superbly’ located between cathedral and castle. Comfortable, compact bedrooms in the main building, modishly decorated in earthy hues, overlook the castle walls or have views of the medieval cathedral. Courtyard rooms are in the peaceful 250-year-old coach house, all conveniently on the ground floor, with parking just outside.

Above the town, this modern, family-friendly hotel in a 19th-century building overlooks a park, and has views as far as Herm and Sark. Bedrooms might be modern or traditional, with sea view or balcony. Complimentary sweet snacks are replenished all day; a range of loose-leaf teas is served for afternoon tea, in the conservatory or on the terrace. A safari theme runs wild in the striking Leopard bar.

Within an architect-designed complex, this contemporary hotel enjoys a ‘prime position’ in the ‘serene grounds’ of the UNESCO-designated World Heritage site. At breakfast in the busy refectory or on the terrace, a ‘small buffet’ and ‘well-served’ hot dishes lay heavenly foundations for the day. Guests have free admission to the cathedral and its precincts, and discounts at local restaurants, ‘many within easy walking distance’.

Smartly refashioned into a stylish modern country house hotel, a Grade II-listed Georgian manor in glorious Herefordshire countryside, just beyond the town.  Popular for weddings and special events, the family-run hotel has bedrooms with garden views, and a fine-dining restaurant.

On leafy New Walk, this welcoming family-owned town hotel is formed from a row of Victorian residences. It is within easy reach of the city and station, the King Richard III Visitor Centre and the University.

In the town centre, a family owned hotel in a renovated and extended Georgian building, overlooking a historic Crown Bowling Green. Neat bedrooms have modern bathrooms. The old coaching house has been converted into a gym and spa with beauty treatments and a heated indoor pool. In a former grocer’s, Wilsons Bar & Restaurant has comfy booths, a courtyard garden and conservatory and Mediterranean dishes on the menu.

Convenient for Silverstone, the hotel once served as a stopover for Victorian railway travellers: high speed trains still run along its front. The restaurant is popular for rib eye steaks and seasonal menus. Bedrooms are straightforward; breakfasts are tasty. Music and comedy events are regularly held. On the outskirts of Blisworth, 6 miles from Northampton,

In the heart of the maritime quarter, an imaginatively modernised hotel in a converted Regency Port Authority building (Grade II* listed). Featuring Welsh produce, the restaurant is in an impressive former boardroom on the first floor (it is open to non-residents from Wednesday evening through to Sunday lunch). Catch major sporting events on the large screen in Morgan’s bar while enjoying a chilled beer, classic cocktail or wines from around the world. The Champagne bar is a sophisticated alternative. Some of the well-equipped modern bedrooms are across a small side road in The Townhouse.  

A former bank, the Georgian building (Grade II listed) has a handsome array of arched windows, ornate stonework and pediments. Inside, the hotel is modern, enlivened with bright splashes of colour. Stylish and dog-friendly bedrooms have high ceilings, a lap top safe and tea- and coffee-making facilities. Beauty treatments are available. No on-site dining at the moment, but a ‘Grab and Go’ breakfast bag is offered, and nearby bars and restaurants are plentiful. On one of the city’s finest streets (some traffic noise), the railway station, metro and quayside are all a short walk away.

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.

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.

Rich in history and notable architecture, a hotel (Hand Picked Hotels) on the outskirts of Worcester that was originally inhabited by a community of Benedictine nuns. Guests today can wander the Abbey’s calming stone cloisters and 26 acres of gardens. Peaceful bedrooms (some in an adjoining manor house) may have a four-poster bed, or Gothic-shaped headboards. Private parties and weddings are held in the former chapel. George’s Bar, contemporary in style, with views over the lawn and terrace, serves refreshments throughout the day.

Well located in the town, a comfortable hotel in a handsome building dating back to 1809. It makes a good base for hikers and visitors to Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall nearby. Bedrooms (some recently refurbished in the main house; some with a 4-poster bed) are also in a courtyard building across the road. Dining is in the elegant Square Restaurant or in the lively Juniper Pizza and Gin 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.

Established for over 30 years, a friendly, family run hotel 2 miles outside the city centre. Simply furnished bedrooms have modern bathrooms. Steaks are a speciality in the traditional silver service Regency restaurant; a three-course set menu is available during the week. There is outdoor seating in the pretty patio garden.

Across from the station, a mid-Victorian railway hotel, that has comfortably accommodated travellers since its inception. American novelist, Nathaniel Hawthorne was a guest here. Befitting its past, the well-equipped bedrooms have been updated in classic style. Home-cooked food is available throughout the day in the coffee shop, and every evening in Restaurant Circa 1852; afternoon teas and roasts at weekends.

In parkland, a white-painted country house hotel blending classic with contemporary twists. The cheerful lounge has yellow seating, and retains its period features. Oversized headboards add statement to individually styled bedrooms. British cuisine is served in Seasons restaurant overlooking Ouzel Valley Park, or outside on a sunny, decked terrace in summer. Children are offered special menus and board games for rainy days. On the outskirts of Milton Keynes, the hotel is a popular wedding venue.

In Beachampton, a picturesque village a short drive from Milton Keynes, a beautifully restored 300-year-old farmhouse with three inviting bedrooms and a well-equipped gym. Breakfast includes freshly laid eggs and honey from the owners’ hives. Footpaths lead across the fields; the village pub is a stroll away. Bletchley Park, Woburn Abbey and Silverstone nearby.

Stroll along the river Eden, fish for salmon, brown trout and grayling, or just relax in the inviting fire-lit drawing room of this imposing country house; a lovely terrace overlooks the water. Informal and dog-friendly, the B&B has immense, well-appointed rooms with spectacular views of the grounds. Breakfasts feature home produced and local fare; a three-course dinner may be pre-booked. On an estate with a large walled garden, four miles outside Carlisle.

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.

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.

Set up as a training centre for RNLI volunteers, this purpose-built structure overlooks Holes Bay in Poole Harbour. Alongside crew members, visitors can stay in comfortable, jauntily decorated bedrooms (each with a double bed, work desk, seating and stunning view of the harbour). Breakfast and bistro food is served in the light and cheerful Riggers restaurant facing the waterfront; the Slipway bar has drinks and nibbles. Tours of the facility (which include a wave tank and simulator) can be pre-arranged. Every £1 spent goes towards providing equipment, training, and support for those saving lives at sea.