‘Crumbly scones’ make this chic, river-facing hotel ‘probably the best tea place in town’, but there’s much more for its fans to enjoy: ‘a lovely setting, good food and well-appointed bedrooms’. Some guests consider the atmosphere ‘sedate’ in the off-season, but ‘it’s my idea of paradise’, said a regular visitor this year. It is owned by Richard Seton (himself a sailor); Paul Downing is the ‘remarkable’ manager. Every bedroom takes in views of the water – watch out for the occasional grey seal. Consider discussing rooms before booking: a guest this year judged his room ‘fairly small, though comfortable, with a less-than-full view of the river’. Others were ‘delighted’ with their accommodation: ‘Our deluxe room, with a huge, weather-protected balcony, was fabulous – contemporary, spacious, with quality furnishings. The superb bathroom had a double-ended bath and a drench shower; robes and slippers; fluffy towels. Bonus points for the binoculars, too.’ Dinner in the restaurant, with its ‘pleasant outlook and attentive staff’, is thought ‘excellent’. ‘And the delicious home-made breads deserve a special mention!’ (CR, IM, Mary Woods)