Salthouse Harbour Hotel, Ipswich, Suffolk

The quayside location in Ipswich's waterfrontdistrict is probably the nicest part of town in which to stay. It's a short walk from the hotel to the town centre, although you have to cross a busy main road to get there. The hotel's restaurant is probably the best around, but nearby Bistro on the Quay is also pretty good. You can take trips on the Orwell river from a nearby wharf.

By car: London is 2 hours 15 minutes away, Cambridge 1 hour 20 mins and Norwich 1 hour 30 mins. There is limited free parking at the hotel.

By train: Ipswich Train Station is a 15-minute drive or 20-minute walk from the hotel. Trains run to London Liverpool Street, Cambridge, Lowestoft and Norwich. Book trains to Ipswich.

This is a converted warehouse on the quayside, with a modern extension - overall the place effectively blends the town's maritime feel with a more modern style. There is a nice buzz of activity.

Service here is great - relaxed, confident and attentive but never in your face. There's aren't loads of facilities but there is 24-hour room service and they work with a local spa to provide massages and treatments.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Afternoon tea
• Children's menu
• Vegan menu
• Wine nights
• 24-hour room service
• On-site parking
• Access to local spa
• Marina views

Rooms vary considerably, from those in the original warehouse to the larger and more spectacular rooms and suites in the extension. Rooms at the back without a view are cheaper - but to really make the most of the place it's worth shelling out for a room at the front.

Room types: Salthouse Rooms, Marina Rooms, Contemporary Rooms, Penthouse Suite

Key amenities: temple Spa toiletries, balcony with marina views, work desk, TV, coffee-making facilities, luxury teas and hairdryer, free Wi-Fi

The restaurant is slick and probably the best in town, with lots of non-resident custom. There's lots of local fish and seafood, as well as steak, along with favourites like oysters and fish and chips.

The Salthouse Eaterie: fresh, seasonal ingredients, local produce, Suffolk Chef of the Year 2019. Open every day for lunch, afternoon tea and dinner overlooking the harbour. Mains £15-£28.