This beautifully proportioned Queen Anne-style mansion, in a hamlet between the Cotswolds and the Mendip hills, is as traditional as its owner, Baba Hine, who has been at the helm for more than 46 years. Some of the decor and furnishings may be a little dated, but guests love the hotel for its roomy bedrooms, facilities which include an indoor pool and tennis court, good food and efficient service. 'Service was as good as ever,' report guests on their third visit, who stayed in 'another excellent room'. Walls are painted in shades of peach; armchairs propose a fireside snooze. Spacious rooms are equipped with fresh milk, ground coffee, leaf tea, even a trouser press. Some have a four-poster or a canopy bed. The bistro and dining room differ only in ambience, with changing menus that might feature loin of local muntjac, buttered turnips and cherry jus or Cornish lobster. You can also eat from the same menu in the Snug Bar, with your dog. 'The food has remained interesting and enjoyable over the years,' reports a guest who has been returning since 1986. (Stephen and Pauline Glover, ID)