Occupying a splendid Georgian merchant's house and one-time bank on a square by the Great Ouse, this 'superbly positioned' hotel is restored to the main Guide after a series of positive reports. Owners Anthony and Jeannette Goodrich (see Rose and Crown, Snettisham) have taken over its management and are overseeing redecoration, including refurbishment of the Counting House bar and dining area. Bedrooms, from cosy to the Captain's Room, mix antiques and original features with contemporary furniture and Designers Guild fabrics. All have a tea/coffee machine, fresh milk and Noble Isle toiletries. 'Tom's Room was smart and quite spacious, with a good shower. Next time we'll book ahead and get a river-view room. We had a peek in the Captain's Room – smashing!' A menu of bistro classics includes some more inventive dishes (belly of pork with parsley root purée, seabass cooked over coals). 'Every member of staff we encountered was helpful, competent and cheerful.' 'We felt it was excellent value for money and won't hesitate to return.' Pay-and-display parking is nearby. (Andrew and Hannah Butterworth, Sue Barradell-Smith, and others)