Number 38 Clifton, Bristol

Occupying the refurbished home of a Georgian merchant, this townhouse hotel faces the Downs, a sprawling area of protected parkland connecting some of Bristol's most desirable neighbourhoods. Although it's on quite a busy road, Number 38's position overlooking Clifton means most bedrooms have lovely views and it's a stone's throw from some excellent bars and restaurants. It's a 15-minute walk to beloved Henleaze bistro Little French and just seven minutes to the atmospheric Bosco, which serves Neapolitan-style pizza and other Italian dishes.

By car: The drive is 3 hours from London and 1 hour 50 minutes from Birmingham. There is paid public parking nearby.

By train: Bristol Temple Meads station is a 15 minute drive, with direct trains from London that take around 2 hours 10 minutes. Book trains to Bristol Temple Meads.

This double-fronted property looks more like a guesthouse than a hotel, but the finish inside would rival many five-star addresses. Original period features sit alongside nautical ephemera evoking Bristol's maritime history, neutral Farrow & Ball paintwork, and a smattering of wingback velvet armchairs. Behind the reclaimed wood reception desk sits a large street art-style portrait.

Service at Number 38 is exceptionally friendly and professional, both courteous and informal in tone. Though there's little in the way of facilities, guests will enjoy loafing in the comfy lounge (with a log burner) and the reception area doubles as a bar. Be aware that it's only manned from 7am to 8pm, but if anything crops up after-hours staff can be reached by phone.

• Bar
• Garden
• Paid parking
• Free Wi-Fi

The rooms vary in size, but even those at the smaller end come with king-sized Hypnos pocket sprung mattresses, laid with quality linens. Though each bedroom is unique, all are designed to a very high standard, combining timeless furniture with Roberts Radios and bathrooms kitted out with 100 Acre toiletries, waffle dressing gowns and slippers.

Room types: Superior Room, Luxury Room, Suite, House Room

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom, dressing gown & slippers, TV, tea & coffee facilities, free Wi-Fi

There's no restaurant on-site, but there is a bijou bar serving alcoholic drinks and barista-style coffees. Guests pre-order their breakfast using a form and these are freshly prepared on-site using premium ingredients - choose from a full English with sourdough toast to Scottish smoked salmon served with scrambled eggs and chives.

Number 38: Cooked breakfasts to order, including English breakfasts, eggs benedict and avocado toast.