The Crown and Castle, Orford, Suffolk

There's so much on the doorstep, from great village and countryside walks to good restaurants, pubs and cafés.

Orford is a pretty village within the Suffolk Coast and Heaths AONB. The coastal town of Aldeburgh is a 20-minute drive away.
By car: less than 3 hours from London, 4 hours 30 minutes from Manchester and 4 hours from Bristol. Free parking available.
By train: from London Liverpool Street (1 hour 10 minutes), Cambridge (1 hour 20 minutes) and Norwich (2 hours) to Saxmundham or Woodbridge, via Ipswich. Both stations are a 20-minute taxi drive from the hotel. thetrainline.com

The hotel is popular with those aged around 40 and over - people who appreciate a quiet country hotel with all creature comforts. An attractive, relaxing base in a very charming village, with a pleasing ambience.

A big sign outside by the terrace has helpful suggestions of things to do nearby. Dogs are allowed in some garden rooms, which also have access to a private lawned garden for dog exercise. Dogs are allowed at one designated table by the restaurant in the lounge area.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Terrace
• Garden
• Pet-friendly
• Family-friendly
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

The best rooms in the main house have views beyond Orford's rooftops over the estuary. The Terrace Rooms in an outhouse have a private terrace overlooking Orford's castle keep.

Good House, Better House, Best House, Garden Room, Terrace Room, Suite
Facilities include: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, hairdryer, tea and coffee facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi

We loved that the fresh seafood was locally caught. The Ghostship battered haddock was tasty, essentially fish and chips with local brewery Adnams beer batter for a pleasant Suffolk touch.

Restaurant: relaxed dining room, fine dining with a twist. Seasonal menus, locally sourced produce. Mains include ballotine of chicken, trio of pork and whole stuffed plaice. Open daily for dinner, and Sunday for lunch.