Southampton Harbour Hotel & Spa, Southampton, Hampshire

The hotel is surrounded by water on most sides as it has been built out into the marina, although the area is still a little industrial. Within walking distance, you'll find several bars and a massive indoor play centre called InJoy.

Situated in Ocean Village in Southampton, the cruise ship terminals are a five-minute drive away.

By car: around 2 hours by car from London, 2 hours 30 minutes from Exeter or Birmingham. Free on-site parking available.

By train: London to Southampton takes around 1 hour 25 minutes; Manchester to Southampton takes 4 hours - after which, it's a 9-minute drive to the hotel. Book trains to Southampton.

An airy reception area with a central spiral staircase is jazzed up by colourful contemporary furniture and artworks. The Jetty features ocean blue chairs and bright yellow sofas, while design touches include the semi-circular oversized leather banquettes in the HarBar. Overall, the hotel is chic and stylish.

There's a wide range of facilities, from the Mercedes that provides complimentary airport, train station and cruise terminal transfers to the Cybex equipment in the gym. Service is faultless from a team of enthusiastic staff.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Terrace
• Swimming pool
• Gym
• Spa
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms have huge beds, laden with colourful cushions and views are of the super yachts moored in the marina. Bathrooms have The White Company bath products. If you're lucky enough to have a room with a balcony, you can enjoy marina views with space for dining and lounging furniture.

Room types: Twin, Double, Cosy Double, Deluxe, Marina View Studio, Deluxe Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with The White Company toiletries, TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi

The Jetty restaurant serves skilful modern British dishes such as cod topped with a crab and herb crust and a rare fillet of beef with braised ox cheek - the food is superb. The pork and octopus is an interesting take on surf and turf. Upstairs is the place for sunset cocktails and more affordable comfort food.

The Jetty: fine dining, modern British cuisine. Open for Mon-Thu for lunch and dinner, Fri-Sun for all-day dining. Tasting menu from £65.

HarBAR on 6th: informal terrace restaurant, comfort food and cocktails. All-day dining, open daily.