Julia and Nick Davies are bringing a breath of fresh air – and a few ‘tastefully flamboyant touches’ – to their 18th-century dower house high on the east side of the Malvern hills. The ‘stunning setting’ remains, of course: ‘You’d be hard pressed to find a hotel with a more impressive view.’ The staff, many long-serving, continue to be ‘friendly, helpful and attentive’. The ‘modern makeover’ (‘along the grey-walls-and-hardwood-floors theme’) has introduced a stylish restaurant and bar – a fine background for the ‘excellent food and drink’ at mealtimes. Further refurbishment is planned for the bedrooms, each varying in size, character and aspect. Breakfast is ‘commendable’, with ‘delicious, and novel, dishes’: avocado, poached eggs and bacon; assorted wild mushrooms on toast; home-made baked beans. ‘We enjoyed our stay, and the enthusiasm of the staff.’