A retreat from the city, the rattan swings, hammocks and sun loungers in the large walled garden of this Victorian town house make it an inviting place to hang loose. Squashy sofas encourage the laid-back atmosphere in the sitting room. Individually decorated, modern bedrooms are spread over three floors. Breakfast is in the bright conservatory. The city centre and airport are a short train-ride or drive away.

On the site of the Roman Forum, this Bailgate area hotel is well located between cathedral and castle. Comfortable, compact bedrooms in the main building, 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. Contemporary dishes are served for lunch and dinner in Reform restaurant (Wednesday to Saturday), and at lunchtime on Sundays.

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.

A ‘most welcoming’ place, this peaceful Georgian house stands in neat gardens that stretch towards Northumberland countryside.

A stroll from the Abbey Gardens, this redbrick Victorian townhouse B&B has nine spacious, soft-hued bedrooms with French-inspired furniture, some with in-room bath, while two interconnect for a family.

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.’