You could imagine you were staying in the cherished home of old and dear friends when you book into Walter and Nuala Sweeney's five-star B&B. The handsome Georgian house, replete with original features, is filled with antiques and artworks, carriage clocks, chandeliers, curios and crammed bookshelves. It fronts onto a quiet one-way street, a stroll from the centre of the historic town, the Saturday Market, the Gothic masterpiece Minster, independent shops, pubs and restaurants. The largest bedroom, 36ft long, with tall sash windows and a fireplace at each end, can sleep up to five. Recent improvements include a walk-in shower as well as a bath for the Iveson Room, and French windows from the guest sitting room into the large walled garden – the perfect place for a cup of tea. All rooms have a super-king-size bed, a silent mini fridge, fresh milk, ground coffee, biscuits, chocolates, a decanter of sherry, fine china and crystal, and good toiletries. Ordered the night before to avoid food waste, breakfast, served at the dining-room table, includes choices such as smoked salmon and a locally sourced, Aga-cooked full English (deli sausages and bacon, free-range eggs). The Sweeneys are welcoming hosts who take a genuine interest in their guests.