The Castle Hotel, Lincoln

Strolling distance between Lincoln’s two must-see buildings - the Norman Castle and Gothic Cathedral - and looking straight onto the castle walls, this hotel has, arguably, the number one spot in the city. The attractive buildings on cobbled Steep Hill (well-named) housing independent shops, cafes and pubs, are also just a five-minute walk. Originally a Victorian school, the tall, red-brick building has been converted into a townhouse-style hotel with boutique-designed rooms: soft carpets, pale neutrals, sleek furnishings and pops of silver to add a bit of dazzle. Most rooms are in the main building - the top-floor, under-eaves rooms have the most character. Some ground-floor rooms are across the courtyard with a separate, self-contained apartment above (usefully, for families, as this can also be self-catering). There’s a small, smart but relaxed bar and a sassy restaurant which wouldn’t look out of place in the cooler areas of Edinburgh, Bristol or even London. Cooking is confident and bistro-style, virtually everything is made in-house, with an interesting, and modestly priced, wine list. In the warmer months, there’s space for a couple of tables on the small front terrace. A stylish base to explore the city’s culture, history and shops - and with a buzzing restaurant to round off the day over dinner.