The ‘attentive hosts’, ‘friendly’ ambience and the ‘very beautiful’ situation are the standouts at this Georgian rectory in ‘what must be one of the most tranquil places in the whole country’. ‘It takes some finding,’ readers say, ‘but it’s worth the search.’ In 2008, Huw Rees and Sam Prosser took over what was then a rather staid country house hotel in a hamlet on the Exmoor coast. They threw out the chintz, and gave the place a ‘clean, smart’ make-over. ‘The bedrooms are delightful, as are sitting areas, which are beautifully furnished, especially the orangery.’ ‘Our comfortable room overlooked the garden with its waterfall and little stream, a delight to the eye and ear.’ Afternoon tea is ‘a sociable event’; ‘Hugh’s cakes are worth returning early for’. In the same way, ‘pre-dinner drinks in the conservatory are a great way of meeting other guests’. Thomas Frost, who has worked for Michelin-starred super-chef Michael Caines, creates such ‘interesting dishes’ as wild garlic soup; Lundy turbot with Noilly Prat sauce. Breakfast choices include local apple juice, fruit smoothie; smoked salmon. ‘Huw and Sam have created a great hotel. . . We have already booked to return.’