The Saracens Head, Symonds Yat, Herefordshire

In a steep wooded gorge literally feet from the River Wye in Symonds Yat East AONB, the location is stunning. Take part in an array of outdoor leisure pursuits such as a river cruise cycling, canoeing or climbing - riverside walks are on offer, too.

The inn is around ten minutes' drive from the A40 between the historic towns of Ross-on-Wye and Monmouth.

By car: around 1 hour from Bristol, 3 hours from London and 3 hours 30 minutes from York. Free on-site parking available.

By train: London Paddington to Lydney takes over 2 hours; Cardiff Central to Lydney takes 1 hour 20 minutes, after which a taxi takes 30 minutes. Book trains to Lydney.

Expect a welcoming, informal vibe. The décor is uncluttered, with wooden floors and furniture, as well as fascinating old photographs of Symonds Yat on the walls. In winter, cosy up by the log burner. The inn isn't suitable for guests with disabilities, and children aged under 14 cannot stay here.

Co-owners and brothers Chris and Pete Rollinson are welcoming hosts. There are plenty of facilities including a small residents' lounge with TV and games, as well as a car park close by and free Wi-Fi. Guests also have free access to the inn's map of six local walks and hand ferry crossings across the river.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Terrace
• Lounge
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

There are nine ensuite rooms with twin beds or doubles in the inn, while the two rooms in the adjoining boathouse are extra spacious. Each room has clean, fresh décor and bed linens, tea and coffee-making facilities with biscuits and a TV. Bathrooms have a bath and/or shower.

Room types: Inn Room 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 10; Boathouse Annex Room 11, 12

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom, tea and coffee-making facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi

An extensive crowd-pleaser menu for lunch and dinner is served in the bar, restaurant or outside terraces. Choose from sandwiches and baguettes, daily specials and dishes featuring local produce, while the well-stocked bar offers six real ales. Desserts include mouth-watering warm chocolate brownie with chocolate and peanut crumble, vanilla ice cream and hot chocolate sauce.

Restaurant: one AA Rosette pub and restaurant, serving classics such as fish and chips, smash burger and brasised lamb. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.