The Blakeney Hotel

On the quayside overlooking the estuary and salt marshes, in the luminous landscape of north Norfolk, Emma Stannard’s ‘lovely, comfortable’, child-friendly hotel gets another thumbs-up from a trusted reader. Bedrooms are smart and contemporary, with views of the water or south-facing gardens. Some have a balcony, maybe a four-poster; others open on to a patio and are ideal for guests with a dog. Interconnecting rooms suit a family; cots and extra beds can be supplied. Menus at lunch and dinner include locally farmed beef and lamb, local crab, Norfolk cheeses, sandwiches and platters (perhaps a Blakeney seafood plate). As well as two lounges, a bar, a billiard and games room, a mini-gym, steam and sauna room, there is ‘an excellent pool’ overlooking a sun terrace. Breakfast brings plenty of choice, though our reader was single-minded. ‘I had kippers for breakfast every morning, from the nearby Cley smokehouse – perfection.’ Birdwatchers are in their watery element in this part of the world, and a boat trip to Blakeney Point with its grey seals is certainly worth making. (David Sefton, SW)