Here is an exemplary hotel, according to a discerning Guide Reader, ‘elegant and comfortable’, it has ‘an air of confidence’ that sets guests at ease. It occupies two mansions at the centre of the glorious sweep of a Grade I listed Georgian crescent. Once home to intellectual and social reformer Elizabeth Montagu, who hosted the likes of Joshua Reynolds, and Fanny Burney, it was later transformed into a top-notch hotel, bought by the Topland Group in 2012. To the fore, a lawn overlooks Royal Victoria Park; behind is a secluded garden. Luxurious, individually designed bedrooms, in the main building and annexes, are supplied with Noble Isle toiletries, robes and slippers. A family suite occupies a pavilion across the garden. The staff are ‘friendly and helpful’, ‘only too happy to provide a service’. You can dine in the restaurant, the bar or alfresco. In the restaurant, David Campbell’s ‘outstanding’ menus include such modern dishes as roasted sea bass, Lacock pork and Everleigh Farm venison. He creates separate menus for vegetarians and children. Breakfast, spa, picnic hampers and a champagne tea invite you to indulge. ‘Not cheap but worth every penny.’