‘A welcoming home-away-from-home’, Nuala and Walter Sweeney’s ‘remarkable’ B&B is but one of the ‘delightful pleasures of the lovely town’. ‘All the main requirements are well covered: excellent beds, linen and bathrooms; superb breakfasts; peace and quiet despite being close to the centre. The Sweeneys are a truly hospitable family, and we felt as if we were staying with great friends.’ In large, ‘lived-in gardens’ with two ponds, a waterfall and a potager, the Georgian house is ‘full of family life’; there are paintings, photographs and fine furniture, ‘some clearly antique’. Choose among ‘spacious bedrooms’, each traditionally decorated and well stocked with hot drinks and treats. Appleton is ‘very peaceful’; ‘huge’ Drawing Room is ‘like being in a great, fun nursery or library’; Iveson, with a claw-footed bath, has ‘wonderful garden views and lots of birdsong’. Much at breakfast is sourced at the local markets: ‘proper bacon and black pudding; beautiful fruit; great coffee’. There’s plenty to see in the town, and the hosts are helpful with recommendations; Westwood is a stroll away. ‘One would be hard pushed to find a more perfect place to stay.’ (S and JJ, and others)