Hotel Review: The Peppermill, Wiltshire

The hotel is slap-bang in the centre of Devizes, overlooking the market square which comes into its own every Thursday when the weekly Farmers Market takes place. The Kennet and Avon Canal and its infamous 29-flight Caen Hill Locks are within easy reach, and they offer some beautiful waterside walks.

By car: around an hour from Bristol, 2 hours from London and 2 hours 20 minutes from Birmingham. Paid parking available nearby.

By train: London Paddington to Melksham takes around 1 hour 45 minutes. It's a 15-minute taxi ride to the hotel. Book trains to Melksham.

The hotel occupies adjoining 15th and 16th-century buildings in the town centre, but the elegant façades are unmistakably Georgian. Within lies a surprisingly fresh, modern interior, although some original features have been preserved. The décor throughout is unpretentious, contemporary and perhaps a little too generic, but it creates a laid-back atmosphere.

The emphasis here is on the restaurant and wine bar, and there are no additional facilities. If you need to work during your stay there is decent Wi-Fi. Guests can expect unpretentious but comfortable rooms and friendly service. Owner Phil and manager Stephen are keen to help.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Terrace
• Garden
• Family rooms
• Free Wi-Fi

Thanks to the large Georgian windows, rooms are bright and airy. They are clean and comfortable, although not particularly characterful with largely modern, unfussy décor. Quality mattresses and linen make it easy to relax. The bathrooms are reassuringly modern with underfloor heating and delightful toiletries.

Room types: Single, Twin, Deluxe, Superior, Bridal Suite, Family Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, bathrobes, hairdryer, mini fridge, TV, free Wi-Fi

The Peppermill prides itself on its food and its surprisingly extensive selection of wines, cocktails and gins. The menu showcases Wiltshire produce and the meat in particular is of excellent quality. Dishes are presented with artistic flourishes.

Restaurant: 2 AA Rosette-awarded, fine dining, Modern British cuisine. Locally sourced produce, seasonal menus. Open Tue-Sat for lunch and dinner, Sun for lunch and Mon for dinner.