Chatford House Shortlist*

‘Warm and friendly’ hostess Christine Farmer plies guests with treats at her ‘first-class’ B&B in a Grade II listed 18th-century farmhouse. ‘We were spoiled with her delicious home-made cake.’ Sleep in traditional, country-cottage-style bedrooms supplied with fresh flowers, magazines and a hospitality tray; each has ‘wonderful’ views across the garden and the Wrekin. Aga-cooked breakfasts use eggs from the resident hens; there are also home-made jams and compotes and local honey. The countryside’s calling: explore the pretty garden and orchard; make friends with the hens, ducks, geese, sheep and cattle that live on the Farmers’ smallholding. Sitting room, breakfast room (open fire). Free Wi-Fi, in-room TV. No background music. Garden; orchard. Parking. Children welcomed (high chair, cot). Resident dogs. Close to the Shropshire Way. 5 miles S of Shrewsbury; within walking distance of Lyth Hill. 3 bedrooms. Per room B&B single from £60, double from £80. Credit cards not accepted.