'Ideally located' within steps of the salt marshes and coastal path and looking out to sea, the Nye family's hotel is matched by 'exceptional food and service', say readers who return year after year. 'It's hard to think of much that can be improved at this hotel,' write others. Food is served outside from noon until night, allowing diners to fully appreciate the big-sky landscape and spectacular sunsets. You can eat sea-fresh shellfish cooked over coals and 'Norfolk tapas' in an open-sided marquee (ponchos provided), dine under a parasol in the courtyard garden, or by the fire in winter. In the glass-walled restaurant, fish features strongly. 'The mussels are local and are delicious.' One reader who ate two dinners in the restaurant and two in the less expensive bar reported that they were 'all excellent'. Bedrooms feature local artwork, a Norfolk seascape palette of green, blue, lavender and sand. 'We stayed in a well furnished spacious garden room with our dog who was made most welcome.' The split-level 'Room at the Top' comes with a balcony, telescope and a 'wonderful view across the salt marsh'. (Robert Marks, PA, and others)