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.

Steps from the promenade, this friendly small hotel is close to many of the town’s attractions. Colourful bedrooms are individually decorated with flair, and have smart technological touches such as remote-controlled lighting, a waterproof TV by the spa bath, and a walk-in power shower. The best have a balcony to take in the sea views. Tram and bus stops are close by.

Abutting the Roman city walls, this style-savvy red brick old coaching inn (Young’s Brewery) has a lively atmosphere. Inside, a host of interesting curios including a vintage sewing machine, a ship’s masthead, and splashes of colour lend a quirky yet unpretentious vibe. Microbrewed drinks and traditional pub classics are served all day in the buzzy restaurant. In balmy weather, diners spill on to the large beer garden. ‘Boutiquey’ bedrooms are themed (water, wool, cotton).

Jutting out over a private marina, this ocean liner-like hotel is ship-shape inside, with porthole-shaped mirrors, vintage glass fish floats and nautical bits and pieces. Bedrooms and suites, several with a Juliet balcony, are cheerily decorated with some retro touches, and supplied with decanters of gin and sherry. The buzzy sixth-floor bar has harbour views. Jetty restaurant pairs locally caught seafood with seasonal produce, eaten on the terrace in welcoming weather.

‘On arrival we discovered that our package included afternoon tea, which we enjoyed before a concert at Cadogan Hall.’

Conveniently close to the village for shops, pubs, restaurants and local buses, Victorian House is also a great base for walking the fells straight from the doorstep. Inside, the villa’s hand-picked furnishing and stone floors make relaxing areas for poring over a guide book or for sharing small plates or tapas dishes (Fri, Sat nights). A lawned garden overlooks the river. A selection of neat bedrooms (some are in a cottage or a shepherd’s hut) would suit a couple, a family, or star-gazers. Dog-friendly room have hard flooring, outdoor access and a tap for washing muddy paws. The hotel takes part in a tree-planting scheme for guests arriving by public transport.