On the edge of a tranquil village, yet only ten minutes from historic Oundle, the Marriott family's B&B has ten rooms in 'beautifully converted buildings' on their traditional arable farm. Robert and his brother, John, run the farm while Caroline is the 'friendly and helpful' hostess. Arranged around a neatly landscaped courtyard with seating, bedrooms occupy the former milking parlour and stables; connecting rooms suit a family. 'Our simple bedroom was just what we wanted for a stopover,' writes a reader. Hearty breakfasts might include porridge with fresh cream, or avocado with locally sourced sausages and eggs – fuel for tackling the walking and cycling tracks from the door. The Nene Way footpath runs through the farm; the 300-year-old village pub is a short stroll away. (S and P Price, and others)