The Norfolk Meade, Coltishall, Norfolk

Situated on the outskirts of a large Norfolk village, four miles from boat-rental base Wroxham, and a gateway to The Broads National Park, with over 200 miles of footpaths, plus bike hire and fishing. Norwich is ten miles, and the east coast beaches are within a 30-minute drive. You'll find family theme parks, Bewilderwood in Hoveton and the ROARR! Dinosaur Adventure Park in Lenwade closeby.

By car: The Norfolk Mead is around 3 hours from London and Birmingham, and 1 hour 30 minutes from Cambridge. There is free private parking at the hotel.

By train: London Liverpool Street to Norwich station takes just under 2 hours. The hotel is a 25-minute taxi ride from Norwich. Book trains to Norwich.

This extended 18th century red-brick mansion was originally built as a family home by a Norwich sugar merchant, with a walled garden and now boasting stylish interiors furnished with convivial groups of sofas and armchairs. Friendly staff are on hand to welcome guests, and the ambience is relaxed in the small bar area and tranquil dining room.

The owners, James Holliday and Anna Dutton, have built their careers in the hospitality business and lead a close-knit and friendly team of personable, helpful staff who go the extra mile to ensure the hotel meets expectations. Weddings are a focus here, but large events are discreetly held in an adjacent, purpose-built venue.

• Restaurant
• Gardens & lake
• Spa
• Terrace
• Family-friendly
• Dog-friendly
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms are spread over the main house, plus five in the grounds, which include two cottages (Sweet Chestnut sleeping four and Blackberry sleeping six). Brightly coloured cushions in brilliant oranges, greens and pinks combine with patterned curtains and eye-catching rugs teamed with neutral walls and wooden floors.

Room types: Standard, Deluxe, Suite, Cottage, Summer House Suite

Key amenities: ensuite with shower, tea and coffee facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi

A carefully described, set price two or three-course dining menu changes daily and may include starters of rhubarb-soused mackerel or honey-roast carrot soup followed by fillet of beef or sea trout with sweet potato and coconut purée. Save room for the honeycomb parfait or chocolate delice.

The restaurant: seasonal set menus, French-inspired, Norfolk produce, light bites, Sunday roasts, homemade cakes. Two courses £28. Open daily for lunch, dinner and afternoon tea.