Modern mixes with medieval on the ramparts of what remains of Nottingham Castle, with this sleek hotel the perfect place to escape the bustling city. Built in 2003 to award-winning designs with the emphasis on sustainability, it owes its urban-chic interiors to Stefa Hart, who, with husband Tim, owns Hambleton Hall in Rutland (see entry). Rooms range from classic doubles with a king or super-king-size bed, to suites with a sitting room. Dog-friendly garden rooms have French doors to a furnished patio. All are painted in soft, neutral colours, with modern art prints. Generous extras include fresh milk, a minibar, spoiling toiletries, 24-hour room service. You can drink a 'Hart of a Lion' cocktail in the bar, and dine in Hart's Kitchen or outside. Dishes include interesting takes on classic dishes such as roast rump of lamp with spiced couscous and lamb kofta or sea bass with lemon basmati rice and curry sauce. At breakfast there is freshly squeezed orange juice, a fruit smoothie, the full English or veggie, with Windy Ridge Farm eggs and bread from the Hambleton Bakery. Hart's is definitely where your home is in Nottingham.