Titchwell Manor

With views to the north Norfolk coast and the reed beds and lagoons of Titchwell Marsh RSPB nature reserve nearby, this characterful family-friendly, dog-friendly hotel is set in a Victorian farmhouse. Chef/proprietor Eric Snaith has lived here since he was nine, when his parents took it on in 1988, and his enthusiasm for the manor is undoubted. The razzle-dazzle designer decor of the lounge gives way to a subtle palette in the main-house bedrooms. Others, in the herb-garden courtyard and converted outbuildings, have a private terrace with hot tub. All rooms have luxury toiletries, a flat screen TV and espresso coffee machine. Two new shepherd huts have a terrace, hot tub and outdoor dining facilities. ‘Our rooms in the main house were spacious and comfortable, with views over the road to the sea,’ writes a reader. You can dine in the Eating Rooms or in the Conservatory, ‘a lovely place to spend time’. Eric cooks varied menus of carefully sourced produce. ‘The food was interesting and had touches of brilliance: the consommé with mussels looked beautiful and tasted wonderful. The staff were helpful. We enjoyed our stay.’ (Sara Price)