‘Stylish and modern’, Robert Wilson and Tim Lloyd’s ‘welcoming’ hotel gleams on the banks of the River Stour, shipshape inside and out. Arrive via wheels or water (there are moorings for guests), and head straight for the popular riverside terrace, where drinks and meals may be taken in the summer. Within the purpose-built hotel, every one of the sleek bedrooms looks on to the water through floor-to-ceiling windows. Each room is kitted out with up-to-date technology – a smart TV, a Bluetooth-communicating audio system, a capsule coffee machine, a DVD-player on request. Spacious family suites also have a fully equipped kitchen. ‘Our comfortable junior suite had interesting river views and plenty of space for lounging around. Shame the sofa was positioned with its back to the window.’ Ring to discuss room choices before booking: a guest this year was troubled by noise from a function room. At lunch and dinner, Andrew Gault’s ‘well-cooked, unfussy’ dishes might include double-baked Cheddar soufflé, spinach and shallot salad; roast turbot, samphire, chunky chips. Breakfast includes omelettes, smoked haddock, waffles with maple syrup – ‘extensive, and enjoyable’.