The Swan at Hay, Hay-on-Wye, Powys

Though The Swan At Hay is on one of the town's main roads, it's still quiet as it's a few minutes away from the busier centre with its narrow lanes and multiple shops, galleries and cafés. The town itself - Y Gelli in Welsh - is split between Wales and England, with the glorious Brecon Beacons and the Wye Valley on the doorstep. Popular eateries within walking distance include The Black Lion pub, The Blue Boar and Chapters. Take your pick of the many book shops, and craft and art galleries, too.

By car: around 2 hours from Birmingham, 1 hour 30 minutes from Bristol and 4 hours from York. Free parking available.

By train: trains to Hereford run from London Paddington (2 hours 30 minutes) and Birmingham New Street (1 hour 30 minutes). The hotel is a 35-minute taxi ride. Book trains to Hereford.

This clean, well-kept hotel features fresh and modern décor with a light country, floral theme, but has retained olde-worlde charm thanks to high ceilings, elegant, restored original features such as fireplaces and chandeliers, and the use of warm wood throughout.

The Swan has two lounge bars to relax in, as well as the spacious Garden Room restaurant and breakfast room, an outdoor garden and a terrace. It's a popular place for weddings. There's free Wi-Fi and free parking either in the small car park if you can get in, or just across the road in the old cattle market.

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

The Swan has 19 rooms in different categories, including one single and two accessible ground-floor coach house rooms in a separate building. The tasteful rooms - accessed by stairs as there's no lift - feature soft tones of blue, beige and pink, with complementary flower-themed paintings, pretty chandeliers and lamps and light wood furniture.

Room types: Classic, Superior, Deluxe

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, hairdryer, tea and coffee facilities, radio, TV, free Wi-Fi

The candlelit Garden Room restaurant has high ceilings and plenty of space and overlooks the garden and patio. The menu features hearty British fare, including succulent homemade Herefordshire Beef and Butty Bach, as well as stone-baked pizzas. Breakfast includes traditional full cooked if you're hungry, or lighter options if you're not.

The Garden Room: informal dining. Locally sourced ingredients. All-day menu, open daily.

The 1812 Bar: cosy bar and lounge, squashy sofas. Open daily, serving light bites.

The Market Bar: dog-friendly bar. Casual dining, light bites and full menu. Open daily.