The George

In “the finest stone town in England”, according to Sir Walter Scott, this “quintessential English inn” by the River Welland is as popular a meeting point now as it was when stagecoaches changed horses here. Returning guests this year were pleased that Lawrence Hoskins”s “comfortable, well-organised” hotel had not changed: “Extremely good, with lots of helpful, long-serving staff.” Hours may be spent in the enclosed Monastery Garden (misnamed: there was never a monastery), or “over afternoon tea in the courtyard – especially nice on a sunny Saturday afternoon when a pianist plays. The sound pleasantly drifted up to our room.” Bedrooms vary in size: “Our bright, spacious room had a fireplace and two comfortable antique-style chairs by the window; perfectly placed bedside lights; a large bathroom.” The Oak Room serves a classic British menu (“decent value for money”): beef sirloin carved at the table; a sweets trolley appears at dessert. “An excellent half-lobster starter.” Breakfast in the Garden Room was “very good: a nice buffet (excellent scrambled eggs, lovely local yogurt), choice of cooked dishes”. (Lynn Wildgoose, ?and others)