The Old Rectory Hotel

In an isolated hamlet on the edge of Exmoor national park, where hog-backed cliffs tower above the Bristol Channel, this hotel ‘goes from strength to strength’. ‘The hotel interiors are very tasteful’ and the ‘dining experience is special’. Bedrooms, in the former rectory dating back to the 16th century, and in the coach house, mix contemporary and period style. Dual-aspect Watersmeet Suite has an open-plan seating area, a freestanding bath and walk-in power shower. A two-bedroom duplex suite in the former coachman’s house has a sitting room with log-burner, luxury bathroom and shower room. All have posh toiletries and spring water on tap. ‘The orangery is a delightful spot to sit and relax in view of the pleasant garden.’ Hosts Huw Rees and Sam Prosser invite guests to join them for aperitifs and canapés as they order from a nightly changing menu of locally sourced dishes such as fillet of fresh haddock, or Spanish five-bean cassoulet in a rioja, garlic and smoked paprika tomato sauce. ‘We enjoy the luxury and very personal attention so much that this is our fourth visit and we are booked for next year.’ (Mary Coles)