The Percy Arms, Alnwick, Northumberland

Splendidly medieval Chillingham Castle - which is still lived in - is close by, as is Bamburgh Castle. The coast is 20 minutes' drive, Alnwick, 30 minutes.

Berwick-upon-Tweed and the Scottish border are a half-hour drive away.​​

By car: under 3 hours from York, 4 hours from Manchester and 6 hours 30 minutes from London. Free parking on-site.

By train: London Kings Cross to Chathill (via Newcastle) is over 4 hours. The hotel is a 20-minute drive from the station. Book trains to Chathill.

This former coaching inn on the Duke of Northumberland's estate has an attractive, low-key appearance of pretty window-boxes and a mix of sash and bay windows. It offers just five smart and low-key country-house style bedrooms, comfortable but fuss-free.

The cheery and welcoming staff work hard to make guests feel at home. The large bar area boasts an inviting log fire and the occasional sofa amongst the tables while, for warmer days, there's seating on a decked area to the side or guests can use the grassy front terrace. Outdoorsy types can borrow walking books plus wet clothes and boots can be dried.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Garden
• Board games
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Dogs are welcomed with a bed and treats, and can sit with owners when dining in the bar area.

The five rooms have a sophisticated yet fuss-free style and are decorated in a light-touch country-house style, with big headboards, soft colours and a mix of tartans and florals. Bathrooms are modern with large walk-in showers, and some have free-standing baths.

Room types: Chatton Park Hill, Fowberry Tower, Hurle Stone, River Till, Amerside Moor

Key amenities: Facilities include: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, tea and coffee facilities, biscuits, TV, free Wi-Fi

The menu is a perfect combination of attractive pub classics such as fish and chips and homemade steak and ale pie with a few smarter, more unexpected dishes such as pan-fried sea bass. The wine list has a good choice and is well-priced, plus there are several hand-pulled ales. There's also an exceptionally great variety of vegetarian choices on offer.

The Percy Arms: traditional village pub, classic fare, locally-sourced produce. Dishes include steak & ale pie, sea bass and pork belly. All-day menu, open daily. Sunday roast served 12-6pm.