Lypiatt House Hotel (Cheltenham, United Kingdom)

The location is quiet and the B&B is set back from the road. It's an impressive building … very Cheltenham! From here you can walk into the town centre's shops and restaurants, or take in a show at the Everyman Theatre, Playhouse Theatre or Town Hall. Alternatively, just sit and relax in imperial Gardens. If travelling further afield, the Cotswolds are on the doorstep and it's only about an hour's journey to Birmingham and Bristol. Plus, it's a safe bet that superior accommodation such as this, won't be found much nearer to Cheltenham Racecourse!

Rooms are well furnished and decorated and reflect the spacious style of the building. There's no lift of course, so bear this in mind when booking the room - and if stairs are a problem. In these circumstances, the attic rooms should be resisted.

Breakfast choices are impressive and cooked to order. The spread includes lots of fresh fruit and overall, this meal will make you wonder if lunch is really necessary.

There's no alcohol licence here which is a disappointment, given the tariff and high rating. It seems, though, that plans are in hand to correct this. Quite right too.

Attic rooms have sloping low ceilings that lure tall guests; like flies round a dustbin. Some rooms lack style and have a mish mash of furniture.

Cheltenham is as busy as any other town and the traffic noise from the busy A40 Oxford/London road can be very noticeable. Windows are only single-glazed, so that doesn't help.